It was my birthday today. I'm 44. I took the day offwork to enjoy myself in a truly indulgent manner but instead, spent the day crying.

About 2 weeks ago my ginger tabby Amber was diagnosed with glaucoma in her right eye. It was blind, bulging our of the socket and the pressure was almost 4 times normal, causing her pain. Xrays also revealed several masses in her chest but the vets couldn't tell if they were malignant or benign. Since they were causing her no issue and the eye was, we opted to have the eye taken out.

Her operation was on Friday. She came through well. Meds helped her post-op pain and she hid a bit to recover but last night she ventured out and onto our bed. She spend hours enjoying treats, catnip, belly rubs and purred like an engine. Then at about 01:30 today she began to have laboured breathing. She became restless and when she moved, she sank on her left side. Then her front left paw began to curl under and she fell over, panting and choking like she was having a stroke. We rushed her to the emergency vet. They put her on oxygen and diagnosed her with a blood clot in her leg.

We discussed options with the vet but in her health condition, all of them lead to a short, painful road for her. We decided that we weren't willing to subject her to tests, meds, pain and disability just to keep her around for us. We spent some time saying our goodbyes/we love yous, and comforted her as she was put to her final rest.

Her last photo, taken at about 2:18AM today.
[img:center]http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=390667&id=889120227&l=c4911f2a7e[/img]

Aww, sorry to hear that, but given the situation, I would say letting her go was for the best. Still sucks though.

Sorry you B-day was less than stellar.

My cat, Lucifer, sends his kitty-dolences. (Yeah... I said kitty-dolences... I'm cool like that...)

I'm sorry about your loss.

I will not say "Happy Birthday", but 44 years is at least cause for congratulations, however uncelebrated today may be. So, congratulations on living 44 years, and wishing you many more to come.

It is saddening to hear of your tabby. It is also warming in spite of its tragedy to see how much you cared for Amber. Many people would not have spent an ounce of the effort you did to ensure her health and comfort, much less at the expense of their own.

I hope in short time, your sadness subsides and you soon find the joy to celebrate your 44th birthday, if only belated.

I can tell, she was beautiful... And a lucky kitten, to have you in near through her life.

I am so sorry to hear about Amber.

I work for an animal charity and usually take in problem/elderly Cats.

It doesn't get any easier, however many times you go through it.

You gave her all love and care while she was with you and prevented her suffering.

I know that is no consolation.

I'm so sorry to hear about your pain.

I know how hard it is to lose a pet, but remember that you always did your best for her, and she was happy with you.

This is just sooooo good, and you need it

Frank Sinatra - That's Life

I am sorry for your loss. As an animal person myself, I know what it must feel like to have to make that decision. Cherish the time that you spent together.

I'm sorry for your loss.