A Sad Goodbye

An update: In spite of the logistical issues, we decided to add the kitty to our family. We kept her in the bathroom until we could have her examined by a vet. At first, she was very content to be out of the cold—she curled up on the bath rug, purred like a car engine whenever one of us came in to the bathroom and rubbed against our ankles as we brushed our teeth. Soon, though, she became eager to bust out and explore the rest of her new home.

We named her Scout.

Sadly, a trip to the vet confirmed Scout had the feline leukemia virus. Because our cat Phoebe has feline HIV, we could not risk her being exposed to other viruses. After several days of thoughtful deliberation, followed by a frantic search for a rescue organization or individual who could find her a home, we decided the best thing for her would be to put her to sleep.

Scout was one of the sweetest, most affectionate cats I’d ever known and we were heartbroken to end her life. I was actually quite surprised at how sad we both were, considering the fact that we’d only “known” her a few weeks. Even though she probably would not have lived long with her illness, it’s hard not to feel we failed this little kitty, dangling the carrot of a happy life in front of her, then yanking it away.

I know we did the right thing and I take comfort in remembering that—at least for a short time—she was safe, warm and loved.

Rest in peace, sweet kitty.

Posted by ayelet at April 7, 2009 04:00 PM