14-MAY-2013
First Day with My New Family
Dad took a quick photo after I arrived at my new home. That first night I was frightened and hid in a corner behind a bed. Dad slept on the bed above me so that I'd know I was not alone. The next night I slept beside him and wrapped my forepaws around his leg. In the days and weeks that followed, either dad or mom slept with me every night and sometimes argued a bit about who would sleep with me that night. So we all formed a deep bond.
04-JUN-2013
Cuddles with dad June 2013
Doing my favorite thing: cuddling cheek-to-cheek with my new dad. I'd only been in my new forever home a month when this was taken.
Dad adopted me from a foster home in Loveland, CO. He says he fell in love with me on the hour drive back down to Lakewood, even though I was in the carrier and we couldn't see one another. He says I must have released some special kitty cat pheromones to beguile him, but I have no comment on that.
At the foster home, he couldn't tell whether I was the right kitty for his family, so I head butted him a few times to get his attention.
(Dad says this is not a great photo, but I like it anyway.)
17-JUL-2013
Velcro cat
Taking a nap with dad on the couch and I'm not going to let go!
What's interesting about this photo is that you can see what a loving girl I am, yet I had several roots of previously-extracted teeth still embedded in my jaw with truly horrible inflammation in my gums. The pain probably would have driven a human being bonkers.
Two days after this photo was taken I went to the vet's office and had those roots extracted. Twenty-four hours later I felt like a whole new kitty!
04-JUL-2013
My adopted sister Panthor
This is my adopted sister Panthor. (Her name is a combination of "Panther" and "Hathor.")
Mom and dad kept us separated for the first weeks after I arrived, and introduced us slowly. Because I am so much older, my energy was intimidating to her at first.
We've gotten into a few swat-fights, and even though she has claws and I do not, I wasn't going to take any guff from this youngster!
We coexist much better now, but I don't suppose we'll ever be cuddle buddies. :-/
25-JUL-2013
Relaxing on the Patio Table
I GET TO GO OUTSIDE!
The top of the patio table was a warm place to relax on a summer afternoon. I walk around in the yard, too, but since I don't have teeth or front claws (the means to defend myself), mom and dad have to make sure I don't wander out of their sight.
22-AUG-2013
Ready for My Nap
"Night, night, y'all!" Even if it is the middle of the day.
I may look like a kitten in this photo, but in human terms I'm in my early 70's. There is no need to spread that around, though!
10-NOV-2013
Harriet playing with toy
I made a lot of progress after six months in my new home and became quite playful.
16-DEC-2013
Hey dad are you taking a nap?
Hey, dad, do you need a cuddle buddy?
Sometimes dad calls me his "Sugar Boo." I don't know what that is, but from the way he says it, it must be something very special!
16-DEC-2013
Harriet Portrait
Here I am at seven months in my new home and things were going pretty well.
I wasn't in great shape when I first arrived back in May. My coat was nappy and full of dandruff. My rear end drooped and I had to slide off a low bed to get down. My butt hit the floor when I landed. I needed a footstool to help get up onto the bed because I could not jump.
After two weeks of care, I began grooming myself. After two months, I started walking with my tail held up.
There have been a lot of ups and downs with my health since then and the vet bills have added up, but mom and dad have hung with me all the way! :-)
17-DEC-2013
Morning snooze
My bed--which is coincidentally mom and dad's bed--is so comfortable! A little warm sunshine helps a girl settle in.
25-DEC-2013
Our Friend Jaymo
This is our friend, Jaymo, a neighborhood kitty who comes by for treats. He has the most piercing green eyes and might seem scary when you first see him staring at you from the bushes, but he's really a sweetheart.
26-DEC-2013
Pure Contentment
Yes, I know, I sleep a lot. What can I say? When you're good at something it's important to stay in practice!
24-JAN-2014
In the Sunshine
Dad says I sometimes look stern or mean in my photographs, which is completely paradoxical since I am the most loving girl in my interactions with people. I've never met a person I didn't like! Well, okay, there may have been ONE person!
17-FEB-2014
Napping together
That's me in the background and Panthor in the foreground. It didn't happen often, and this is about as close as we got in those early days.
24-FEB-2014
Panthor and me
That's Panthor on the windowsill and me down below.
12-MAR-2014
Our friend Blackie
This is our friend Blackie, a neighborhood stray. He's a bit of a ruffian and keeps the other outdoor kitties in line.
Mom and dad feed him and give him water whenever he comes by. At one time we had eight neighborhood cats coming to our house for snacks, but now we only have two or three regular visitors.
20-JAN-2014
Yes this is my bed
Yes, as a matter of fact, this bed does belong to me. Any other questions?
26-JAN-2014
My favorite activity
Taking a nap, cheek-to-cheek with dad. It's a little slice of heaven for all involved.
10-MAY-2014
Harriet Resting
I had an awful bout with Inflammatory Bowel Disease just before my one year anniversary of living in my new home. Mom and dad thought they were going to lose me.
It took a few months of steroid therapy and carefully controlled diet (first Hill's Prescription Diet W/D and then I/D products) to get me back on track.
11-MAY-2014
Sweetest Girl Ever
Cuddling with dad on a cool afternoon.
08-JUL-2014
Harriet watching birds
Soaking up warmth from the flagstones and watching birds.
You should see me go into "predator" mode if a bird lands in the neighbor's yard! I don't know what I think I'm going to do with no foreclaws and no teeth, but they excite my instincts nevertheless.
Dad rescues me before I go too far astray.
19-JUL-2014
You can't find me
Mom and dad had a heck of a time finding me on this occasion!
22-AUG-2014
Mom's glass makes the best water bowl
Water is never more tasty than when it comes from mom's drinking glass! Take your eyes off your water glass just a minute and you'll gradually become aware of the sound of "slurp, slurp, slurp" as I drink it down.
Yes, of course I have my own water bowls. I just like yours.
18-SEP-2014
You can't see me
I am safely hidden from view under MY comforter, invisible to all intruders.
30-SEP-2014
Hi mom
I was having a good day here but my health was taking a turn for the worse. A blood test came back with high numbers for pancreatitis and I was diagnosed with diabetes.
In October, mom and dad began giving me two insulin injections a day to control the diabetes. It took a few months of twice-weekly glucose tests to get the dosage sorted out.
24-SEP-2014
Is that a camera?
Hey! Hey! Is that a camera? Can I see it?
24-SEP-2014
Topaz Labs Painting IV
Dad says he likes this one because the eye in the background gives it a surreal flavor. If that's anything like canned tuna I actually don't like it. I was sitting on dad's shoulder when this was snapped.
19-OCT-2014
Warm Sun Cool Grass
I love to go out in the front yard and lay in the cool grass!
Mom and dad have to keep a close eye on me, though. About the time they think I'm just going to lay there and take a nap, my little legs have scurried off into the bushes or somewhere out of sight.
20-OCT-2014
Our Friends at Dr Van's
Yes, another urgent visit to the vet's office. It's a good thing Dr. Van and Chris take good care of me or I wouldn't be around for these gatherings!
Here some of our friends at the vet's office come out to give their support. That's Lookout Mountain Mama on the bench with dad, Diesel the black cat on the floor and BOGO (Buy One Get One) the hefty fellow beside Diesel. (I'm in the carrier.)
24-OCT-2014
My Precious
I love the smell of Palo Santo (Holy Wood), commonly burned to smudge spaces for clearing.
Mom made me a sachet with palo santo chips and I often sleep with it nearby.
17-NOV-2014
Harriet Morning Light
The early morning light was exquisite one day when dad took this photo. The green comforter enhanced the sea green of my eyes. (Okay, he may have given the colors a little boost with Topaz Labs.)
Two days after this photo was taken I went into diabetic shock (low blood sugar). I couldn't stand up and I lost bladder control. It scared the heck out of mom and dad but they brought me back around by rubbing honey on my gums every 15-30 minutes.
After awhile I could eat and they suspended my insulin shots for a few days. This was all part of the learning curve of finding the right insulin dosage for me.
21-NOV-2014
Mom with cats
Back at Dr. Van's to check my glucose levels. BOGO (Buy One Get One) sits in mom's lap while Lookout Mountain Mama sits on top of the carrier as I wait inside. I've gotten fussier about these visits because they usually interrupt my afternoon nap, so I sometimes move to the back of the carrier to enjoy some solitude before the exam.
15-DEC-2014
Staying Close
Keeping dad company, cheek-to-cheek.
29-DEC-2014
Warm Sandwich
A little touch of kitty heaven here, sandwiched between my cat bed and a wool blanket.
Ten days before this photo, I again went into diabetic shock, this time in the middle of the night as I slept between mom and dad.
They woke up to a, "What's that smell?" situation. I had lost bowel control, was having a seizure, and threw up everything in my system. (They never scold me for making a mess; they just clean it up.)
After rubbing some honey on my gums we went to the 24-hour emergency pet hospital and were there for 3-4 hours while the vets stabilized my blood sugar. It was so low when we first arrived that they could not obtain a numeric reading, which is a very serious situation.
What mom and dad learned from this episode is that managing my diabetes is more than insulin injections. They also have to make sure that I'm eating enough throughout the day to keep my glucose levels up.
31-DEC-2014
In Mom's Lap
Snuggling in mom's lap as the New Year approached.
08-JAN-2015
Keeping Dad Company
Keeping dad safe while he takes a nap. That's Panthor in front keeping guard while I cuddle with dad in the background.
12-JAN-2015
Our friend Diesel
Nope! Same green eyes but that isn't me. Notice the tufts on top of the ears? That's Diesel, one of our friends at the vet's office. Yes, we were back for another visit.
12-JAN-2015
Our Friend Cotton
Oh, did we disturb you? Cotton was taking a nap on top of the cabinet in the exam room. She is a very friendly girl and will give you kitty-cat kisses if you like.
16-JAN-2015
Just Got Brushed
Both mom and dad brush me fairly often, although mom is always the best! Dad also washes my face with a warm washcloth to clear drainage from my eyes. They take really good care of me!
20-JAN-2015
Hanging Out with Dad
I sleep by myself more often these days, but still find time to cuddle with dad and mom.
They bring me small amounts of food and water throughout the day to help stabilize my glucose levels. Of course, I'm still getting two insulin injections a day at twelve hour intervals. My glucose gets checked once a week at the vet's office and about every two weeks I get a Cerenia injection, which helps calm my Pancreatitis and Inflammatory Bowel Disease.
For the moment, all is well.
21-JAN-2015
Panthor on table
Sister Panthor relaxes on the dining room table. Mom and dad used to try to keep her off the table, but as soon as they'd chase her off, she'd be right back up there again, sometimes laying herself flat or getting behind something to avoid detection. After quite a few months, Panthor finally wore them down.
22-JAN-2015
Girls Napping
Taking a nap with mom while sister Panthor grooms herself in the sun.
31-JAN-2015
Harriet playing with mom
This sequence is a really big deal because it's the first time I've felt this playful in many months. Not only that, I'm just recovering from another little downturn in my health and spent two days this week at the vet's office! :/
Mom is agitating me with a cloth "cigar" stuffed with catnip. As you can see from the middle photo, I'm taking this seriously. Growl!!!
01-FEB-2015
Panthor ears up
Sister Panthor is our watch cat. She alerts us if anything is going on outside the house, whether it's a visiting stray kitty, or squirrels raiding the cat food bowls.
04-FEB-2015
Me and My Comforter
Mom lays out my comforter so that it has pockets and ridges for me to cuddle in.
We enjoy moments like this when all is calm, but it seems my pancreatitis is never far away. Two days after this photo was taken I was back at the vet's office for another Cerenia injection. It looks like I'll now need those at least once a week.
08-FEB-2015
Resting with Teddy
Resting in the evening with one of my hind paws on Teddy's heart.
09-FEB-2015
Sun Massage
Mom gives me a kitty-cat massage while I relax in the sun, but I'm not just being pampered. The massage is intended to stimulate my system so that I don't just sleep all day and get progressively weaker.
I am getting Hill's Prescription Diet A/D canned food to boost my caloric intake. Mom and dad mix it in with the I/D product, otherwise it's a little too much for my system. I get a little bit of food as often as possible. Otherwise I'll sleep all day without eating and that lowers my blood sugar. If I then get an insulin shot, my glucose levels will crash 3-to-4 hours later and I can have a seizure.
So there is a dynamic balance between food intake, glucose levels, and insulin injections. Mom and dad do the best they can.
12-FEB-2015
Harriet Most Wise
So dad was trying to do something today called "work." I'm not sure what that is, but I do know that it was interfering with what I wanted to do: Snuggle up with dad for a nice nap!
I eventually convinced him of the wisdom of my plan, but hey, get that flash out of my face!
12-FEB-2015
One Paw Out
Don't make me get up from here!
Just kidding. Sometimes it gets too warm in my kitty bed so I have to rest on the edge for awhile.
13-FEB-2015
Talking with Mom
I LOVE going outside! So many smells and sights to experience!
Mom keeps me company and we have a nice conversation while I enjoy the warm sun and the soft grass.
16-FEB-2015
One of our squirrel friends
It's snowing today. Dad cleared off the back porch slab and set out bowls of cat food and water for the neighborhood strays, should any come by. The bowls go into a storage container with a hole cut in the side so that snow or rain doesn't get into them. Our squirrel friends sometimes get here first, as this little fellow did this morning.
17-FEB-2015
Paw to Hand
Snuggling with dad after he finished his morning coffee, paw to hand. In this side view, do you see my little eyelashes? (Click on the photo to enlarge it.) Dad notices them all of the time. He thinks they are very pretty.
I didn't feel good over the weekend. I kept my face turned away from mom and dad because I didn't want to interact. Yesterday we were at the vet's office and I got another Cerenia shot to calm my digestive track. My glucose levels were elevated and I'm still losing weight; even so today is going well and we treasure precious moments like this.
23-FEB-2015
Late Afternoon Sunshine
Enjoying the late afternoon sunshine.
All the humans at our house have something called "the flu." I didn't know my people could make so much noise with all that ballistic coughing. Or sleep so much! Who knew sick people are so much like cats?
Panthor and me have stayed close to them throughout their illness so that they don't feel lonely.
23-FEB-2015
Our Golden-Eyed Girl
Sister Panthor can be the sweetest girl, even though she's a bit high-strung at times.
She gets a little perturbed with me when I block her way up onto the bed. Sometimes I just want mom and dad to myself, you know? And hey, I'm just laying there, what could be more innocent? She could jump over me if she really wanted!
02-MAR-2015
I Am a Survivor
There have been a lot of ups and downs with my health since I came to my new home, and many a time when mom and dad didn't think I was going to make it. But I'm a survivor and I'm not done until I'm done. Every moment I have with my family is a mutual privilege, and we relish this time we have together.
05-MAR-2015
Pushing Dad's Leg Off the Couch
I found a nice warm trough between dad's legs to take a nap on the couch, but then I needed to stretch out a little. So I extended my hind legs and pushed dad's leg completely off the couch. He didn't really need all of that space.
This isn't a great photo, but it does show my white undercoat. You probably thought I was an all-black kitty. Nope. I have a white/very light gray undercoat. Also, in the right light, I have beautiful brown highlights on my chest and forelegs. I know, I'm just being modest here. Mom and dad call Panthor their "beauty queen," so I don't want to upset that cart!
08-MAR-2015
Eating Snow
We've had snow on the ground for weeks, but it's begun melting off over the past few days and we can finally go outside!
When I began licking snowmelt off the flagstone, dad put some clean snow in a bowl for me. It's not quite as good as when it has some dirt and grit in it, but I ate a little anyway, just to keep dad happy.
08-MAR-2015
Warm Sunshine on the Patio
Dad has taken me outside several times today. This afternoon I enjoyed laying on the warm bricks of the patio.
10-MAR-2015
Garage Inspection
Today was a special treat! With the warmer weather, dad swept out the garage and asked for my help.
I duly inspected every nook and corner to make sure he didn't miss anything. Here I am sniffing the bin where we keep the sunflower seeds for the bird feeders.
That's a "Beware of Cat" floor mat I'm standing on. See the claw marks? That must have been one big cat! Even our friend Blackie couldn't make scratches that big!
10-MAR-2015
My Own Personal Snowcone
After we finished sweeping the garage, dad carried me out to an open patch of yard. Finally, after weeks of cold weather I can walk on grass again!
I couldn't resist taking the edge off a small pile of melting snow. I was making short work of it but dad got worried that I was going to make myself sick, so I let him carry me back inside.
12-MAR-2015
Kitty Needs Food
This is my, "I'm just a poor sad little kitty, give me food" face. It works every time! In mere minutes I have a saucer of wet canned food delivered at my paws, always served with a smile as dad says, "Here you go, angel." Isn't that sweet?
And here's the big trick all you kitties out there should know. DO NOT TELL HUMANS OR DOGS.
Sometimes your people will be slow and keep you waiting. If you feel they've had adequate time to deliver the goods but food has not arrived, WALK AWAY. Yes, that's what I said. WALK AWAY and do not respond as they call your name or run after you with food.
I know if you're hungry that this seems counter-intuitive, but it is very important for training purposes. Walking away will create a mild sense of failure and guilt in your humans and to avoid these unpleasant feelings they will deliver service much faster the next time. Trust me, this works.
15-MAR-2015
In Dad's Lap
Resting in dad's lap on a Sunday afternoon. I didn't feel well this weekend and it now looks like I'm going to need two Cerenia injections a week to keep my inflammation under control.
16-MAR-2015
BOGO Keeps Dad Company
While I was getting my glucose checked at the vet's office, BOGO (Buy One Get One) came in to keep mom and dad company. He likes to lay on my wool blanket. Now he is quite a hefty fellow, but he is NOT as big as he looks in this photo. Dad says it has something to do with "foreshortening." He looks like a giant because he is closer to the wide-angle lens.
18-MAR-2015
With My Best Man
I like to lay in dad's lap and stare at him while he tells me how wonderful and beautiful I am!
My glucose was highly elevated at the vet's office the other day, but it came back down to tolerable levels within a few days. I also got my Cerenia shot for inflammation, and a B12 injection to give me an overall boost.
19-MAR-2015
Blackie Waits for Food
This is our friend Blackie. He is a stray kitty that visits us for food, sometimes twice a day. Then he disappears for weeks or months and we wonder what happened to him. Then he shows up again, patiently waiting at the back door for food.
Our hospitality is somewhat limited because he sprays urine to scent-mark "his" territory, and he is dominant and aggressive toward other cats. We help him the best we can with food, water, and a few kind words.
As you can tell, he is kind of a rough character, which is of course who and what he needs to be to survive in his outdoor environment that includes foxes, raccoons, coyotes, and other stray males. We like to think of him as a noble warrior, just doing what nature designed him to do.
Dad tried to catch him a few winters ago when he was in particularly bad shape, but he was too wily and too fast.
21-MAR-2015
TLC for Mom
Mom needed some extra Tender Loving Care this morning so I slept on her shoulder for awhile.
21-MAR-2015
Jaymo Has Breakfast
Our very dear, longtime friend Jaymo came by for a light breakfast this morning. He has the most piercing green eyes, wouldn't you agree?
22-MAR-2015
A Quick Sip Outdoors
I've been burrowing under my comforter quite a bit over these past few days so dad brought me outside.
Historically, I can stay outside for as long as mom and dad can allow before they need to do something else. These days I enjoy a sip of "outdoor" water, then walk around the bushes along the front walk and immediately go back inside. This is another indicator that I'm not feeling well.
23-MAR-2015
Breakfast in Bed
Mom brought me breakfast in bed. I know this looks like I'm being spoiled, but here's the story.
I've been losing an ounce of weight a week for some time now, so mom and dad push food in front of me as often as possible. I usually don't eat much at one time.
The good news is at this afternoon's weigh-in at the vet's office I've actually gained two ounces! It doesn't recover what I've lost over the past few months, but it's a positive development.
23-MAR-2015
Enjoying the Warmth
After breakfast and my post-breakfast nap, I found a warm spot by the patio door. You may have guessed it, yes, I took another nap.
24-MAR-2015
Our Friend Notch
This is our friend Notch. Her eyes are actually green. The turquoise glow is from the light of the flash reflecting off her retina.
If you look closely, you can see that the top of her left ear is missing, and that's how she got her name.
We think this is because she was rescued from the streets, spayed, and then returned to the streets. The missing ear tip is a visible marker that she's been neutered, and hence, does not need to be re-captured for the procedure.
Typically, she only shows up well after dark, or less frequently very early in the morning before sunrise. She is very shy and never comes close unless the patio door is closed. This is the best photo we've ever been able to take of her.
Even more so than Blackie, she disappears for months at a time and we wonder if she is okay. She and Panthor seem to have some kind of special relationship. There is always a kind of recognition that occurs each time they see one another.
26-MAR-2015
Kitty is NOT Pleased
Two minutes before this photo was taken, dad used a pill-plunger to get an antibiotic pill down my throat!!! Oh, the indignity!
I bragged too soon about gaining weight during my Monday checkup. Things took a little downturn after that. Let's just say I was losing fluids from both ends, and my weight dropped 3 ounces.
It seems I've developed a bacterial imbalance in my colon, so I need 5 days of antibiotics to sort things out. This has happened several times before, so it's not too unusual.
Yesterday (Wednesday), I also received fluids under the skin and another Cerenia shot. We go back to the vet's office tomorrow for a glucose check and probably another Cerenia injection to get me through the weekend. That'll be our 3rd trip to the vets this week. They are nice folks, but I'm getting a little fussy about these trips that always seem to interrupt my afternoon nap.
Oh, the pain, the pain!
28-MAR-2015
The Day After
I really don't feel like being bothered right now. We all had a rough night. Mom or dad must have been up with me ten times.
My pancreatitis is acting up which means my glucose levels were high yesterday at the vet's office. I feel weak in the limbs when this happens and just want to curl up somewhere and be left alone.
I had a #1 accident in the bed during the night and soaked the covers and sheets through to the mattress pad. The bacterial imbalance has not sorted itself out, either, so there were quite a few messy #2 trips to the litter box. Dad is still giving me antibiotics with the pill plunger for that.
Did I ever tell you that I tend to be an uncooperative patient? If you think you're just going to tilt my head back and pop a pill in my mouth, you're in for a fight. And even if you think you succeeded, the truth is I only pretended to swallow it. I'll hold it in my mouth and then spit it back out when you're not looking.
You want me to eat a pill pocket with the antibiotic inside it? No way. Even if you insert the pill with a pair of tweezers to keep the scent off your hands or the outside of the pocket, do you really think an old kitty can be deceived? Try harder next time.
Begrudgingly, I have become a bit more accustomed to the pill plunger, so that is less a struggle. Especially if I get a couple of "party mix" kitty treats immediately afterwards.
28-MAR-2015
Panthor and Jaymo Hanging Out
Panthor and Jaymo hang out together in the late afternoon. Jaymo is the neighbor's "indoor/outdoor" kitty, so he is allowed to roam free. Panthor has an enclosure that dad built for her with three dog crates. Thankfully, he did not include the dogs!
Although mom and dad would love to allow Panthor to run free, the fact is that free range kitties have a much more dangerous life. They lost their beloved companion, Miss Kitty, a few years ago. She was also an "indoor/outdoor" kitty, and early one evening she went out and never came back.
More recently, Jaymo had a female companion, Jovi, who was a welcome visitor to our yard. She was run over and killed by a car. That was heartbreaking news because she was such a friendly girl.
Panthor's "playhouse" has a second level where she can watch the activities of birds and squirrels around the bird feeders, so it's a little bit like live kitty-cat TV. That helps keep her entertained. And, of course, there is nothing like an outdoor nap!
29-MAR-2015
On the Mend
After a few down days, I'm doing much better now. This morning I found a beam of sunshine on the couch and soaked up the warmth.
30-MAR-2015
Cuddle Time
Despite not feeling my best, I've had lots of premium cuddle time with both mom and dad. This is what makes all the visits to the veterinarian's office worthwhile! Okay, and going outside, and naps in the sun, and naps under my comforter, and naps on the couch, and naps in my cat bed...you get the idea. :-)
Panthor Beauty Queen
My sister Panthor received lots of attention from mom and dad this morning. They call her their "beauty queen." But just to be clear, no one gets called "beautiful" more times in this household than me! Just keeping the record straight.
As you can see, Panthor also has a white undercoat.
02-APR-2015
Spa Treatment
Well, not really a "spa" treatment--it's not like I was getting my nails done or anything--but mom did give me a gentle brushing, and then dad washed my face with a warm washcloth. Not bad. Not bad at all.
03-APR-2015
Harriet Selfie
I asked dad to help me take a selfie and these are the results. For some reason, HE is a little more in focus than I am. Next time I'll keep a closer eye on what he's doing!
08-APR-2015
Tired Kitty
No, I'm not dead, just tired. I have a number of health issues going on at the moment and we're all dealing with it as best we can. I'm grateful that I can stretch out on the couch and take a much-needed nap!
My glucose levels have been high for the last several checkups and are not yet under control. My limbs are weak and my forelegs cross over one another as I walk. I also have to rest before I walk too far. This is diabetic neuropathy. Dad says that I'm "wobbly." We can only up my insulin dosage a little at a time, or run the risk of low blood sugar, which is even worse.
A few days ago I had heavy discharge from my left eye. The vet diagnosed it as conjunctivitis due to a scratch on the third eyelid (nictitating membrane). I'm getting antibiotic eye ointment twice a day to treat that.
No doubt to the high glucose levels, I have developed a UTI (Urinary Tract Infection). I've had a tough time with bladder control since early this morning. I can't get to the litter box in time before an accident happens, or when I do get there, I only make it partially inside the box before losing control. Dad went to the vet and got a prescription to help with this.
So it has not been a restful morning, for anyone.
08-APR-2015
Cuddle Time With Mom
The antibiotics for the UTI are doing their job and I had some cuddle time with mom. I've been something of a "momma's girl" recently and sleep on her shoulder at night.
For all the problems that come and go, dad, mom, and the vet all agree that even though there are days I do not feel well, I am not in a chronic pain situation. In other words, I am not suffering, nor have I given up the will to live. I continue to be the same loving girl I've been since the first days here in my new home.
08-APR-2015
Coming Out of My Tent
After cuddle time with mom, I lay down on the couch and she wrapped me in my wool blanket. It's raining and there is thunder in the background, so it helped me feel safe. Here I am coming out to take another run at my food saucer.
Notice that my left eye is still a little messed up. The ointment is working its magic and the drainage is hardly anything compared to how it started.
10-APR-2015
Notch Visits
Our dear friend Notch comes by frequently these days for an evening meal. She appears to be sporting a number of old battle wounds. Life is tough for kitties on the street!
13-APR-2015
Playing with Dynamite
Don't panic! It's not real dynamite, just a toy that dad rolled in catnip for me!
This is the first time I've played with anything in a very long time. Healthwise, the last few weeks have been a real slog for everyone. Despite the moment of play, my glucose levels were catastrophically high (over 600) at my afternoon check-up!
14-APR-2015
In the Sunlight
Laying in the sunlight after snuggling with my catnip toy. We've upped my insulin dose and that brought my glucose levels down to a tolerable level.
Now the trick is to ensure that things don't swing too far in the opposite direction into low blood sugar. We've been at this dosage before and that's what happened.
There is this very dynamic relationship between insulin, glucose levels, and food intake, but sometimes my pancreatitis flares up and throws everything out of balance.
We are on the mend now, though!
18-APR-2015
Watching TV with Mom
Dad went to bed early, so mom and I stayed up to watch an Antonio Banderas movie ("My Mom's New Boyfriend"). The movie wasn't that great, but that Antonio, he's quite the charmer! AND did you know, he did the voice over for Puss 'n' Boots? I mean, no one could replace dad, but just saying, a kitty wouldn't mind a warm cuddle with Mr. Banderas!
20-APR-2015
Laying on the Star Cards
Yesterday was a tough day. I hardly stirred or ate anything. Dad began giving me antibiotics for my digestive tract and by evening I noticeably improved. We skipped my nightly insulin injection because without much food in my system there is a danger of going into a low blood sugar condition, a very dangerous situation.
This morning I was doing much better and lay down with my paws touching a sheet of star cards (sacred geometric shapes).
20-APR-2015
Enjoying the Outdoors
Dad needed some sunshine and fresh air so I took him outside and walked him around the yard a few times.
Top: Enjoying the warmth of the patio bricks.
Middle: Laying on the concrete walk.
Bottom: Finding a cool spot of shade underneath a bush.
24-APR-2015
Zonked on the Biomat
Panthor loves sleeping on the Biomat in dad's office. A Biomat is essentially a deluxe "heating pad" embedded with amethyst crystals that produces negative ion and far infrared therapies.
Panthor sleeps for hours on the thing and has become a bit of a Biomat hog.
Note: The Biomat is under the bottom sheets, so even though you don't see it in this photo, it's there.
27-APR-2015
A Touch of Kitty Heaven
Talk about being pampered! Mom gives me a thorough brushing to clean out my coat and make it shine! Meow!!!
01-MAY-2015
Drinking Big Girl Water from the Sink
Lately, I've enjoyed drinking water from the sink in mom's bathroom. Panthor does this all of the time, but it's way out of my jumping range, so mom or dad helps me up onto the counter--and back down again.
Dad calls this "drinking big girl water." I don't know why. I'm older than he is in kitty-cat years, for meows sake!
P.S.
I have not yet mastered the art of drinking running water from the tap. Actually, it kind of freaks me out.
01-MAY-2015
Kitty in the Window
Sister Panthor likes to sit in the front window and watch birds go by.
01-MAY-2015
Sniffing Plants
I took dad for a walk in the front yard and stopped to sniff a cinquefoil plant.
06-MAY-2015
Catnip with Little Kitty
Dad rolled "Little Kitty" in catnip for my enjoyment. I do so love my catnip!
06-MAY-2015
Waiting for Dad
Dad has been out of town on a family visit for a few days and is now on his way home from the airport. I'm waiting patiently in mom's lap for his arrival.
06-MAY-2015
Panthor in Dads Office
Panthor rests on the bed in dad's office. As mentioned in an earlier photo, she loves the Biomat underneath the covers. Often, if someone enters the office she will stretch out one paw with claws extended as if to say, "This is mine. Don't even think about sitting here!"
08-MAY-2015
Dad, I Adore You
Dad was in his recliner and I jumped up onto the chair and then positioned myself right in the middle of his chest, then looked up at him with big, adoring kitty-cat eyes. We hung out like that for quite a while, heart to heart.
11-MAY-2015
A Low Moment
My pancreatitis flared up last night--hey, dad needed to wash the bedding, anyway--and again this morning. Here I am snuggling with a stuffed animal dad bought for me. (It's a doll, not a real stuffed animal, so don't worry about that!)
Dad took me to the vet's office after they opened and I spent the day getting fluids and meds. I was much better by the time he picked me up late in the afternoon and returned to my normal routine of sleeping and looking beautiful.
13-MAY-2015
Panthor's Outdoor Enclosure
Panthor in her outdoor enclosure. Dad put it together using three collapsible dog crates, each about 2.5' wide by 4' long. She has a 2nd level she can get to from below, with a foam tile roof. Additional foam tiles with S-hooks can be positioned as needed to provide shade on the sides.
To the right but out of the picture is a utility easement where we stock three bird feeders. This is like "kitty cat TV" for Panthor as she can watch birds and squirrels come and go from the feeders.
Two long poles run through the enclosure and allow it to be picked up and moved at will.
Mom and dad would like to allow her to roam free, but with dominant males like our friend Blackie and other strays in the neighborhood, as well as coyotes, foxes, and raccoons that could show up unexpectedly, she'll have a longer and safer life with the protection of the enclosure.
18-MAY-2015
Somebody in My Bed
Getting ready to take a nap, but never fear, stuffed kitty made room for me.
23-MAY-2015
Got More Food?
Our friend Blackie came by for an early lunch. When dad stuck his camera out to take a photo, Blackie took a closer look to see if more canned wet food was involved.
23-MAY-2015
Sniffing Mom's New Plants
I took dad for a stroll in the yard and stopped on the way to smell mom's new plants on the front porch. It's been raining a lot so she hasn't been able to get them planted.
27-MAY-2015
Me and Little Mary Rose
Yesterday morning started off well, but shortly after 2:30pm for some inexplicable reason my blood sugar crashed and I began going into diabetic shock. First, I lost bowel control, then bladder control, then my legs buckled underneath me. Ordinarily mom and dad would rub honey or karo syrup on my gums if they suspected low blood sugar, but I ate well earlier in the day so that was the last thing they suspected.
They rushed me to the vet's office and I received intravenous glucose injections to counter the low sugar. That turned things around quick and after eating some high-caloric wet food, I was able to go home.
Things went well today. I took dad outside several times for a short walk, drank "big girl water" from the sink, and then took a nap beside mom's cabbage patch doll, Little Mary Rose.
29-MAY-2015
Extra TLC from Mom
I developed some knots in the fur on my belly, so this morning mom gave me some extra Tender Loving Care (TLC) and began gently working them out, one at a time.
01-JUN-2015
A Friendly Kitten at Dr. Van's
Our veterinarian took on a kindle (litter) of rescued kittens and this little girl was especially friendly with mom and dad. Indeed, it was a challenge to get her detached from their clothing!
As adorable as they are, we won't be adopting any kittens or adult cats at this time. Dad says I've "broken the bank" on adoptions for awhile. I'm not sure what that means, but he seems to be okay with it.
02-JUN-2015
Siesta Time
Today was the hottest day of the year so far, and even though the interior thermostat only read 76 degrees (24.4 celsius), Panthor and I were knocked out! I spilled out of my cat bed and Panthor took a snooze under the dining room table.
03-JUN-2015
Exploring Mom's Garden
Today I took dad outside for a walk and explored mom's garden in the backyard. Dad had to intervene at one point when he thought I was trying to eat the leaves of a rose bush. Silly boy, I was only licking the dew off the leaves, but whatever makes him feel useful!
03-JUN-2015
Kitty in the Grass
After exploring the garden, I rested in the grass for awhile so dad could take my picture.
11-JUN-2015
Our Friend the Fledgling
Dad spotted a fledgling (young bird) in the yard. Mama robin was in a nearby tree, calling out, and keeping a close eye on things. The fledgling held very still as dad took its picture, but he stayed far enough way to avoid frightening it. (This photo is a crop of a much larger image.) We hope it survives its brief time on the ground before it takes wing with its new flight feathers.
14-JUN-2015
Kitty on the Move
I wanted to take dad for a walk outside but he was slow to take a hint, so to express my displeasure I peed on the carpet in front of the door to the garage. He discovered my annoyance when he stepped on it with his barefoot. In the future, please do not keep kitty waiting! That is all.
TOP: I did a quick garage inspection and as I suspected there were a few new smells in the garage. Yes, they've been doing things without me.
MIDDLE: There is a nice little, kitty-cat size tunnel between mom's plants. Halfway through I looked up to make sure dad was still with me. He sometimes lags behind, so I have to keep an eye on him.
BOTTOM: With the yard inspection complete, I wasted no time in going back inside where food and water await.
14-JUN-2015
Big Green Eyes
Giving dad the big green eyes treatment as we cuddle together in his recliner. I do love that man, even though sometimes he is a bit slow on the uptake.
It looks like sister Panthor may have scratched me on the nose. She gets in a hissy every so often and swats at me, but I usually just ignore her. I pretty much took over everything when I came to live here, so I understand when she gets jealous from time to time.
23-JUN-2015
Garden Walkabout
Mom took me outside for an extended walkabout in her lovely garden. I enjoyed exploring all of the different plants and finally plopped down for a bit of a rest. It's so much fun to be outside with all of those delicious smells! Thank you, mom!
28-JUN-2015
Panthor Happy Cat
Sister Panthor gets some extra premium snooze time with mom on Sunday morning.
29-JUN-2015
Our Friend the Moth
Dad discovered this moth clinging to the blue blanket that we use to provide additional sun protection for Panthor's outdoor enclosure. At first he thought it was a huge dry leaf, but then noticed the "leaf" had legs!
At first the moth's antennae were folded back against its head, but extended them as dad tried to gently nudge it off the blanket. The moth was firmly attached, though, so dad left it there to avoid causing any injury.
29-JUN-2015
Mom's Garden
Is it any wonder I like to go outside and explore mom's garden? This is the view of the patio area in our back yard.
The color panel in the background is a movable sunscreen mom and dad use to shield Panthor's outdoor enclosure. Of course, even with the screens they bring her in before it gets too hot so that she does not get over-heated.
30-JUN-2015
Soaking Up Warmth
Some days a walk outside is not complete without soaking up some warmth from the concrete walk. It feels good on an old girl's bones!
01-JUL-2015
Mom's Love
Mom thought I needed some extra attention this morning and treated me with a gentle massage.
Left: TLC (Tender Loving Care) in motion.
Center: In the relaxation zone.
Right: A finishing kiss!
09-JUL-2015
I Will Not Look at the Camera
I tend to be a bit confused these days about what I want to do. Is it food? water? litter box? walking over here? walking over there? Sometimes there does not seem to be any good answer.
Today dad got tired of my meanderings and brought me outside where he tried to get me to pose for the camera. Nothing doing, buddy, this wasn't my idea!
09-JUL-2015
With the Foo Dogs
Dad thought it would be cute to pose me with the Foo Dogs (guardian spirits) at the front door. Have we not already established that I WILL NOT LOOK AT THE CAMERA?
On first glance this may look I'm cozying up to one of the foo dogs, but you'd be mistaken. Nope, I'm actually getting up to go back inside where hopefully there will be less unnecessary activity.
09-JUL-2015
Blackie Resting
Our friend Blackie came by for a bite to eat and then lay down on the back porch slab to rest. Do you think he feels safe and welcome in our yard? You betcha!
09-JUL-2015
Posing with Flowers
Posing beside my favorite plant, mom's cinquefoil flowers.
14-JUL-2015
New Water Fountain
Mom bought me a new "Feng Shui" water fountain! I don't know what that means, but I love my new fountain, and I won't hardly drink from anything else!
16-JUL-2015
New Litter Box
No, no, this isn't me doing any unpleasant business for the camera! I'm just checking out my new litter box.
As many older kitties do, I have arthritis in my lower spine, hips, and upper legs. That makes it difficult for me to get into and out of a litter box. It's also sometimes a challenge to squat properly.
Dad bought a 16" square base for a potted plant and filled it with an inch of litter. The sides of the base are short so it's easy to get into. The whole thing was placed in the plastic bottom of a doggie crate, just in case I don't get everything contained inside the box.
We've been using dental bibs (what the dental assistant puts on your chest when you go to the dentist) to catch any overflow, but this has since been upgraded to unscented doggie training pads.
19-JUL-2015
Panthors Improved Outdoor Enclosure-2
Top Image: Conduit connectors and a short piece of EMT conduit were used to create a handle. Notice how the handle protrudes several inches from the end of the enclosure. Note that a kitchen garbage bag is used as a litter box liner to make clean up a little easier.
Middle Image: Mower wheels mounted on a steel tube were then fastened with hose clamps to the opposite end of the enclosure. A foam flap was secured with locking ties to close the small gap between the conduit and ground.
Bottom Image: Large "S" hooks are pressed through the end tabs of foam squares to provide adjustable shade during the day. In practice, these are moved from one side of the cage to the opposite side as the sun traverses the sky. Nevertheless, mom and dad always bring Panthor in shortly after mid-day in the summer months so that she does not get too hot.
19-JUL-2015
Panthor's Improved Outdoor Enclosure
Dad made some improvements to sister Panthor's outdoor enclosure. First, he dropped the wire bottoms out of the lower dog crates so that she can enjoy the cool grass without anything in the way. Then he used electrical conduit connectors to close the open poles running through the enclosure.
The front protrudes a short distance from the enclosure so that it can be used as a handle. Wheels were added to the back end so that instead of dragging the entire assembly across the lawn when it needs to be moved, it can now be moved much more easily. [The wheels aren't visible in this image, but they are there.]
He also added a higher shelf in the top dog crate, so that she can more easily watch the birds and squirrels at the bird feeders a short distance away.
The red pads you see provide dry stepping areas whenever the grass is wet. Full-size foam pads with "S" hooks are used to provide movable shade during the day so that she never has to be in direct sunlight. As you probably know, it's very important to keep us pets cool when we're outside in the heat.
23-JUL-2015
On the Lawn Chair
The flower beds in the back yard needed some clean up, so I sat in the lawn chair and supervised while mom did the work.
23-JUL-2015
Resting on Mom's Vanity
After a tough day of gardening, I rested on top of mom's vanity while we hung out together.
I still don't want to look at the camera. If I don't feel like posing, I don't feel like posing, kapeesh?
03-AUG-2015
Aunt Freddie
Aunt Freddie flew in from Texas to stay with me and Panthor while mom and dad were out of town for a wedding. She has taken really good care of us and is an ace at giving insulin injections. I love my Aunt Freddie!
07-AUG-2015
Blackie on the Flagstones
Blackie came by for food but retreated when dad had to go out into the yard. He is a wary fellow, and we want to keep him that way because we know he has been mistreated by humans in the past. Mom and dad give him food and water but resist the urge to try to domesticate him in any way.
10-AUG-2015
Resting after Front Yard Patrol
I took dad and aunt Freddie on a patrol of the front yard this morning, then laid down in the wet grass to rest after crawling through some bushes. I like to lick the dew off the leaves.
10-AUG-2015
On the Couch
Aunt Freddie gives the most wonderful kitty-cat facial massages. They have really perked me up quite a bit. I am holding my head up and am much more alert. I love and adore my aunt Freddie!
10-AUG-2015
Panthor on Kitchen Cabinet
Sister Panthor sometimes likes to rest on top of the kitchen cabinets. From the countertop, she jumps up toward the top of the cabinet--a vertical distance of 4 feet (1.22 meters)--and then grabs it with her forelegs to pull herself up, all in one smooth display of kitty-cat athletic prowess.
14-AUG-2015
Our Friend Licorice
This our friend Licorice, a dachshund who lives nearby. I have never met her since I don't get out much, but she comes out to greet mom and dad each day as they take their neighborhood walk.
20-AUG-2015
Morning Coffee with Dad
Sitting in dad's lap while he drinks his morning coffee. I like the smell of it, he drinks it. He does share his Maple Hill Creamery drinkable yogurt with me--one capful at a time--for the probiotics.
25-AUG-2015
Busted!
Remember when I told you that I was an "uncooperative patient"? Well, dad has been giving me prescription Metronidiazole tablets to treat some loose bowel movements. I don't like taking pills, and sometimes hold them in my mouth for five minutes or more before surreptitiously spitting them out. Yes, I am that sneaky!
Dad thought things were going well with the treatment, but today he happened to glance into my water fountain, and what did he see? Those little green circles are the pills I've managed to spit out without his detection.
He is usually very patient with me no matter what happens or what I do, but this event tipped things over the edge. Was he mad! He let me know that he has had enough of "kitty cat foolishness." :-(
26-AUG-2015
Panthor Contentment
This photo is a bit fuzzy, but shows sister Panthor happily snuggled in with mom one morning.
28-AUG-2015
Another Low Day
I saw the vet for B12 and Cerenia shots yesterday, and that perked me up for awhile, but today I don't feel so well.
In the afternoon, I had a bout of--excuse the details!--liquid diarrhea, then walked out of the litter box and collapsed on my side with a small seizure. I had tremors in my tail and my rear legs crossed and locked up like I couldn't use them.
Dad rushed me to the vet's office. My glucose was elevated so it was not a low blood sugar situation, but most likely dehydration due to the diarrhea I've struggled with for awhile now because I resist taking pills as much as possible. The vet took blood for further analysis and we'll get those results next week.
UPDATE: The bloodwork came back positive for Pancreatitis, a known issue, but nothing more.
29-AUG-2015
Napping under dad's shirt
We're having a tough time getting my digestive issues sorted out. Here I am taking a nap underneath dad's shirt. It was a little warm, so I stuck my hind feet out to cool them off.
I'm using my stuffed banana toy as a pillow.
30-AUG-2015
Morning Conversation
Mom and dad talk to us kitty-girls all the time. We don't understand the words, but we understand the tone, emotion, and recognition. In our household, we are not just "things" that occupy space, but integral members of the family that are given the same respect and courtesy as the humans.
Here dad got down to my level and is telling me that he is sorry for all of my recent health problems. Then he head-butted me on the side a few times--it's just a thing that we do since I first head-butted him at the foster home to say, "Hey, take me home!"
He also asked for my cooperation when taking the medications I have been prescribed, but I don't know if that's going to happen.
02-SEP-2015
Blackie Little Gentleman
Our friend Blackie may be a ruffian when it comes to other male cats, but when he drops by for hand outs, he sits and waits patiently for his food like a little gentleman.
03-SEP-2015
Our Friend Orange Kitty
"Orange Kitty" belongs to a family down the street and he sometimes visits our yard. He is a very friendly fellow, comfortable around humans and other cats.
Sometime after this photo was taken, Orange Kitty was relaxing in the shade beside the fence, and Jaymo dropped down close to him and began hissing. That attracted Blackie, who must have been napping in the plants on the opposite side of the yard.
We were about to have a three-way cat brawl among Blackie, Jaymo, and Orange Kitty. Blackie probably would have kicked both their butts, but dad went outside and clapped his hands loudly to run Blackie off (he came back for chow later in the evening).
04-SEP-2015
Notch eats dinner
It seems like it's been weeks since our friend Notch has come by for a meal. Sometimes she disappears for months at a time before we see her again, and of course we are always concerned that something may have happened to her.
Mom and dad give her as much food as she can eat, not knowing when she may find her next meal.
She seems like a very sweet girl, but is also very skittish. For example, she won't approach the food bowl until the screen and patio door are closed. This is one of those rare photos where dad was able to take her picture with the screen door partially open.
06-SEP-2015
Licking Dew
This is one of my favorite things in the whole world: After crawling through kitty-cat sized tunnels between mom's cinquefoil plants, licking delicious dew off the leaves!
07-SEP-2015
Crushed
Did I mention how much I hate taking pills? Oh, how many times! This is me after dad uses the pill plunger to get an antibiotic tablet down my throat. I bury my face in the side of my cat bed and will not look out. It just crushes my little spirit. Dad does what he can to reassure and comfort me afterwards, but sometimes I'm just not buying it!
He says my reaction is a form of aversion therapy. I hate taking the pills, and because of my reaction he hates giving them to me.
08-SEP-2015
Stalking Mode
Not sure what I was stalking, but while taking mom for a patrol of the front yard, I went into "don't mess with me, I'm a wild animal" mode as I stealthily crept down the sidewalk.
14-SEP-2015
Daddy's Girl
Sometimes I sit at dad's feet when he is in the recliner and wait for him to pick me up. Then I curl up in dad's lap and sometimes rest there for 30-40 minutes. Or I just gaze at him adoringly, as I am doing here.
14-SEP-2015
Blackie on the Fence
Our friend Blackie sitting on a fencepost in the backyard.
20-SEP-2015
Reaching Out
Help! I snuggled in my cat bed and I can't get up!
Just teasing, although between the arthritis in my hips and bouts of diabetic neuropathy, it is a struggle at times. If I get really stuck, mom or dad will help me untangle myself.
20-SEP-2015
Mommy's Girl
Okay, I know I said I was Daddy's Girl, but sometimes I am Mommy's Girl, too. After escaping my cat bed, I lay my paws across mom's arm and kept her company for awhile.
25-SEP-2015
Proximity
Here is something we don't see too often. While mom did her morning meditations, me and Panthor rested in close proximity to one another. I slept, Panthor stood (or lay) guard.
28-SEP-2015
Me and My Shadow
Mom captured me and my shadow as I walked away from my food saucer. Often I only eat a few bites at a time, so mom and dad bring me food to wherever I'm at in order to keep up my caloric intake. They place a paper napkin under the saucer as a visual aid not to step on it.
30-SEP-2015
Our Friend Fat Little Mouse
This morning, dad noticed that a plump little mouse had fallen into one of our window wells, probably to escape a severe hailstorm that we had last night.
The poor little fellow (gal?) was scurrying around for food, but there was none. Dad fed the little mouse a walnut, and then captured and released it near some thick bushes in our yard. It was quite frightened when dad first tried to capture it, but then equally happy to run into the bushes when freed.
02-OCT-2015
Less Welcome Visitor
We generally avoid feeding the wildlife, but sometimes our local kitty friends don't finish all of the food that we set out for them. This attracts scavenging skunks or raccoons. This fellow, with his full coat, was as big around as a basketball. He ran off when he saw dad looking at him through the glass of the patio door.
13-OCT-2015
Cuddling with Dad
We've passed through another low spell, and there was one evening when neither mom nor dad knew if I'd make it through the night. Here I am snuggling with dad on the futon in a "morning after" scenario.
16-OCT-2015
Cuddling with Mom
With my hind legs and tail hanging over the edge, I am completely relaxed while cuddling beside mom with the edge of Granny Matt's wool blanket keeping me warm.
19-OCT-2015
Blackie Monitors the Yard
Blackie monitors the yard from behind a piece of yard art. He was watching dad pull Panthor in from her outdoor enclosure before rain moved in. He looks like a small fellow here, but he's actually rather large, just lean, and totally ruthless in a cat fight.
22-OCT-2015
Mom Helps Me Eat
I had a routine appointment at the vet's office this afternoon, but moments after leaving I developed a blood clot and lost use of my forelegs. They actually went cold!
Fortunately, mom almost immediately noticed that something was wrong and drove around the block back to the vet's office. They gave me fluids and kept me warm while the clot apparently dissolved on its own.
Although I survived the initial problem, I was still weak when we got home. Mom helped me to the dry food bowl and propped me up with her knee while I ate.
27-OCT-2015
Steps to Help Me Get Down
While I slept in dad's office chair, mom used storage containers to create steps to help me get down--my legs still weren't working well so jumping down was not an option.
23-OCT-2015
In Dad's Chair
The morning after my blood clot, I was still in bad shape and mom did not know if I would make it through the day. Dad was out of town, so us girls--mom, me, and sister Panthor--were on our own.
I made my way to dad's basement office and mom lifted me up into his chair. It's one of my favorite places because dad holds me in his lap or across his chest just as long as I wish.
Throughout the day dad talked to me on the cell phone every so often so that I could hear his voice. This helped rally my spirit and brought me back from the brink.
23-OCT-2015
Our Friend Dahlia
Dahlia is our friend who watches over dad's son and his family in Minnesota. That's where dad was visiting while I was having my problems here in Colorado.
She looks very similar to me, although she does not have the brown highlights on her chest and forelegs. She helped comfort dad while mom and me took care of things at home.
23-OCT-2015
Peeking Out After a Long Day's Rest
I rested most of the day while mom fed me every so often and kept me warm with a heating pad and blanket. By that evening, I poked my head out and was much more alert.
We animals, I think, are more resilient than humans because we don't feel sorry for ourselves. We're just in the moment, whatever it is.
24-OCT-2015
Deep Healing
The next day, with one of dad's shirts as a blanket and the heating pad underneath, I fell into a deep, restorative sleep.
24-OCT-2015
Much Better
By that evening, I was able to hold my head high while monitoring the living room from my cat bed.
27-OCT-2015
Deluxe Facial Massage
Enjoying a deluxe facial massage courtesy of mom's loving care. You can see my white undercoat in this photo. Yes, I am a black cat with a white undercoat with brown highlights on my chest and forelegs.
03-NOV-2015
Loves Me Some Catnip
Sister Panthor has (ahem) gained quite a bit of weight, so mom and dad bought her a larger carrier to take her to the vet. They put a comfy bed inside and sprinkled it with catnip in the hopes that she'd be attracted to the carrier and thereby become comfortable with the arrangements.
Hahaha. Guess who explored it first and claimed ownership? Me. Me. Me. I loves me some catnip!
04-NOV-2015
A Girl Needs Her Rest
I need to recharge my batteries a lot these days. I am spending more time alone in my basement bed, but mom and dad often check on me. Here I am taking a morning snooze on the living room couch, with another one of dad's shirts as a blanket.
05-NOV-2015
This Bed is Mine!
Sister Panthor has taken over mom and dad's bed. Perhaps this is why she wasn't too interested in the new cat carrier. Here she is snuggling up with a "cigar" toy stuffed with catnip.
05-NOV-2015
Receiving Neuro Stimulus
Sorry if this is too much information, but today I have a UTI (Urinary Tract Infection) which means that I am passing urine every 10-15 minutes without any control. Dad gave me half a Zeniquin to treat the infection, but I was also quite restless and could not get comfortable--that happens when you feel the urge "to go" every few minutes!
Fortunately aunt Julie was here with her neurofeedback computer. She attached an electrode to my scalp and gave me a very quick, low power treatment. This calmed me almost immediately, and I was still calm hours later when I had a scheduled vet appointment.
06-NOV-2015
Enjoying Outdoor Scents
Even though it's difficult for me to walk, I've been all over the place today and can't seem to get settled anywhere for long. Several times dad opened the patio door for me so that I could smell the outdoors. I lay on the rug and watched yellow leaves fall from the ash tree just outside the door.
He also took me out to the front yard so that I could lay in the grass for awhile. It's been slow to warm up, so we only stayed outside for 15 minutes or so.
06-NOV-2015
Resting After Fountain Run
I actually have not been doing well today. I had dad wondering if today was the day that I'd be saying goodbye, but have perked back up a little in the afternoon. It does feel like we're getting close to that time, but who knows?
I made a "run" (visit) to my feng shui water fountain and then lay down to rest for a moment.
Dad is continuing to give me half a Zeniquin a day for the UTI.
07-NOV-2015
Holding Paw Closeup
Closeup of dad holding my paw.
07-NOV-2015
Holding Paw
We've passed through a lot of low moments together. As I made another such passage today, dad cuddled his arm against me to keep me warm and held my paw until I got through it.
07-NOV-2015
Keeping Dad Company
Keeping dad company while he takes a nap.
07-NOV-2015
Basement Sanctuary
When I don't feel well, I like to go down into our unfinished basement and sleep. It's cooler in the basement, but I can also curl up in my nice warm cat bed and enjoy a snooze. This is mom's extra storage area for clothes and shoes. In the mornings, dad comes down to check on me while he drinks his coffee. He usually ends up holding me in his arms for quite awhile until I get ready for water or food.
Trivia: The pink blanket under my cat bed is from Mary Kate's house. It's one of the original towels that was in my cat carrier from Mary Kate when dad adopted me. The white pad on top of the towel is a pet training pad to keep things dry should I lose bladder control during the night.
14-NOV-2015
The Eyes Have It
I drove mom and dad a little crazy with my restlessness for a few days, then finally ran out of steam, and slept for most of the day yesterday. This morning my head is up and I'm checking out the scene. Mom took this closeup of me this morning.
15-NOV-2015
I Adore You Dad
Before my health took a turn for the worse, I slept with mom and dad all of the time. Using a footstool and a cedar chest, I jumped up on the bed and lay down between mom and dad. I gave dad the big adoring eyes to let him know how much I love him.
15-NOV-2015
I Adore You Mom
After I gazed at dad for awhile, I turned my adoration to mom. I love you, mom!
19-NOV-2015
Gnawing Grass
Eating grass helps us kitties with our digestive issues. I can't really chew it since I do not have teeth, but I do like to gnaw it with my gums. The grass container is on its side to help me get an easier grip on it.
25-NOV-2015
Cuddling
Cuddling cheek to chin with dad. He said my whiskers were tickling him, but didn't seem to mind too much.
02-DEC-2015
Panthor on Puzzle
Sister Panthor rests on a 1,000-piece puzzle that mom and dad put together. They have completed seven 850- to 1,000-piece puzzles this year. They call it a "mindless mindfulness" activity because they are more focused on the activity in the moment than any thoughts in their heads. That sounds like what we kitties do all of the time, so it doesn't sound like a very big deal to us! Just sayin'.
04-DEC-2015
Resting on Mom & Dad's Bed
It's been quite a few months since I slept with mom and dad, or even napped on their bed. In the past week or so, I have begun to come more-and-more into their room, sometimes sleeping with them during the night, or taking a prolonged nap during the day.
09-DEC-2015
There is No Room
Sorry, as you can see there is no room for you here on the bed! Just teasing. I actually love for mom or dad to come nap with me. Especially when I can wriggle underneath my comforter and enjoy such heavenly warmth!
12-DEC-2015
Posing for Dad
Posing for dad as the majestic lady that I am.
16-DEC-2015
Playing With Catnip Toys
This morning I woke up and felt especially well. I wrestled with mom's fingers as she moved them under the sheets, and then played with our "Dynamite" and "cigar" catnip toys. I have not had the energy to play like this in a very, very long time.
Here I am holding onto the stick of "Dynamite" with my nose tucked in underneath.
24-DEC-2015
Notch - Our Christmas Blessing
It's been over three months since we last saw our dear friend Notch. At that time she had a horrific injury to her right eye. Without a trap there was no way to catch her, as she is an extraordinarily wary girl. As the weeks passed we assumed that she had succumbed to her injury or to predators, but at 5AM on Christmas Eve there she was sitting up and waiting for food on our patio slab.
Dad gave her wet food, dry food, and water. It was truly a Christmas blessing to see that she is still alive!
29-DEC-2015
Harriet with Grass
My digestive tract is a little more upset these days, so in addition to the medication dad gives me, he also buys grass for both Panthor and me to chew. I usually end up with at least one blade sticking out of my mouth, as you see here, while I enjoy the warm sunshine on mom and dad's bed.
29-DEC-2015
Panthor Enjoying the Biomat
Sister Panthor enjoys the far infrared warmth of the Biomat's amethyst crystals. Mom turns it on low for her. (The mat is underneath the covers.)
30-DEC-2015
Panthor Flat Ears
My ears don't operate like this, but sister Panthor can flatten hers out sideways for omni-directional listening to what's going on elsewhere in the house.
06-JAN-2016
Feel My Disdain
My pancreatitis is acting up badly so yesterday I had an unscheduled visit to the vet's office. Today I am in no mood to cooperate with any kind of treatment plan. No, I am NOT going to look at you.
07-JAN-2016
Warm Cuddle with Mom
Today is much better and I am enjoying a warm cuddle with mom's arm wrapped around me.
08-JAN-2016
Panthor Perfect Spot
This is sister Panthor's favorite spot in the living room. There is a floor register against the wall in the background (you can just see the edge of it on the upper left) that blows out warm air when the furnace runs.
09-JAN-2016
Panthor Grooming
Sister Panthor grooms herself on a massage table in our living room. The table was setup to facilitate "energy sessions" for mom and dad, but with the Biomat underneath the covers, it did not take Panthor long to find it and (briefly) take over the table.
11-JAN-2016
Safe with Mom
My health issues have flared up recently, but I found comfort with mom's arm wrapped around me.
11-JAN-2016
Notch Visit
Our dear friend Notch has shown up several times for food since she reappeared on Christmas Eve after many months' absence. This is about as far as we can open the patio door before she runs away, but dad was able to get a quick photo of her.
11-JAN-2016
Panthor Chin Brushing
Panthor likes individual attention from time to time, so she leads mom into mom's bathroom where she receives facial massages or a good brushing.
12-JAN-2016
Kitty in the Window
Sister Panthor looks out the living room window. It's cold outside, so she does not get to go out to her outdoor enclosure too often. That's a statue of Quan Yin in the yard, with red Christmas bows on the fenceposts.
13-JAN-2016
As Good As It Gets
Second only to cuddling in mom or dad's arms, this is as good as it gets for an older kitty girl: Napping in warm sunshine on mom and dad's bed on top of my very own green comforter.
19-JAN-2016
Drinking Water
Drinking from a small water bowl on mom & dad's bed. Spillage only becomes a problem if they forget it's there and decide to ruffle the covers. Then we have a little excitement.
28-JAN-2016
Sunshine Girl
Once again I am soaking up warm sunshine coming in through mom & dad's bedroom window.
At this point my pancreatitis and Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) have given us all a few more challenges to deal with. Also, I continue to refuse oral medication. There is one liquid medication that helps with the IBD that dad can sometimes get into me, but I absolutely refuse to swallow the pills that actually do me the most good. Mom and dad respect my wishes on this issue, so they do not force anything on me, and the consequences are what they are.
I will not take oral pain medication, either, so dad rubs a transdermal pain compound inside my ears once each evening to help me settle down at night.
10-FEB-2016
Eating Baby Food
To help soothe my digestive woes, mom and dad now feed me baby food in addition to the Hill's Prescription Science products that I use (AD, ID, & WD). I like the Beef and Beef Broth, Chicken & Chicken Broth, and Turkey & Turkey Broth flavors. Mom discovered that I like to eat directly from the cans, as I am doing here with the baby food jar. Of course, as the food gets lower in small jars or cans like this, it has to be transferred to a different container so that I can get to it.
17-FEB-2016
Exploring the Yard
We've had snow on the ground for several months now, but warmer temperatures finally arrived and began melting it away. Today I took dad outside so that we could smell the grass and all of the other delicious outdoor scents.
17-FEB-2016
Eating Snow
I like to eat snow! Dad clears the top layer off so that I can get to the clean snow underneath.
17-FEB-2016
Quality Time with Mom
I am kind of a restless girl these days, but here I am enjoying some quality time in mom's lap. Dad said he had to do a lot of Photoshopping on this image because I had a lot of dried baby food on my mouth and nose. That baby food is sticky stuff, but it is easier on my system and I do enjoy eating it.
17-FEB-2016
Panthor on Window Ledge
Sister Panthor likes to jump on the window ledge and monitor the yard for kitty visitors.
25-FEB-2016
Trying to Nap!
Hey! Hey! Can't you see I'm trying to take a nap? Please go away and take my picture some other time!
28-FEB-2016
Mom Grooms Me
Mom props up my head while grooming me with a comb.
06-MAR-2016
Morning Meditation with Mom
While mom meditates with her Mala beads, I "meditate" with my face pressed into a pillow. The absorbent pads on the bed are there in case I have an accident before I can make it to a litter box.
11-MAR-2016
Happy Birthday, Mom!
Sister Panthor greets mom on the morning of mom's birthday.
16-MAR-2016
Snoozing With Dad
Taking a nap with dad's arm wrapped around me. My condition has been going down hill for awhile now and I'm prone to bladder control accidents. I just can't get up and make it to the litter box in time. For that reason, mom and dad have absorbent pads strategically situated around the house. They also placed an old vinyl tablecloth below the top comforter. That way, if I have an accident, it does not soil all of the bedding underneath.
18-MAR-2016
Mom Keeps Me Warm
I have to rest a lot these days as I walk from one place to another in the house. We've had a bit of a cold snap so on this occasion mom huddled over me like a momma cat to keep me warm.
19-MAR-2016
Napping on Dad's Arm
Yes, I know I've posted a lot of, "kitty is sleeping" photos, but it's what we kitties do. Also, these are very special times. We don't know how many more naps and snuggles we'll have before I make my transition to the big kitty land in the sky.
21-MAR-2016
Panthor on the Vanity
Sister Panthor rests on mom's vanity. She and mom have a special "Girls Only" clubhouse going on in mom's bathroom. They hang out together and have conversations. Dad is only allowed if he takes over brushing duties when mom is not available.
23-MAR-2016
Blackie After the Blizzard
We had a one day blizzard that dropped about 2.5 feet (.76 meters) of snow on the ground. The following day, mom and dad cleared a path so that the neighborhood strays could get to our back door slab. Our friend Blackie was the first visitor. He had probably not eaten for a couple of days.
The rough patch over his right eye is from a battle wound or injury from a few years ago. The skin was originally raw and looked like he had been burned. Stray cats have a remarkable healing ability. They get torn up so badly in turf battles with other kitties that you think that they couldn't possibly survive, and yet they do.
We do what we can for all of our neighborhood strays.
03-APR-2016
Napping With My Cigar
Napping with my "cigar" stuffed with catnip.
04-APR-2016
My Pillow
Using my cigar stuffed with catnip as a pillow. Yes, I know I sleep a lot. It's what we do.
06-APR-2016
Me and My Shadow II
Casting a classic shadow in the morning light.
10-APR-2016
Splendor in the Grass
With pollen on my face, I and dad completed a quick patrol of the front yard. I have not been doing well over these past weeks, and with a few days of good weather, dad wanted to get me outside to enjoy the cool grass and sunshine.
Shortly after 6PM that afternoon, I suffered a mild stroke. I threw up and my eyes went askew with the nictitating membranes partially deployed. My right paw went cold. Dad and mom talked to me and kept rubbing my body and after about 10 minutes I came out of it. Apparently, sometimes with us older kitties, we can form blood clots that give us problems, then those clots dissolve. Other than some residual weakness, I seemed okay.
Around 3AM the next morning, mom got up to check on me and discovered that I had made a big mess on the couch. With dad by her side, they held me for the next hours as I went through the transition process with "death throes," etc. I cried out three times and my spirit appeared to have left my body. My respiration was almost undetectable. My body went cold.
They were just waiting for my breathing to entirely stop. Then, after about 15 minutes. my respiration picked up, they could feel my heart beating strongly, and my eyes opened! I WAS BACK! Mom and dad were gobsmacked. They'd just seen me die, and here I was awake and aware!
12-APR-2016
Morning Time with Mom
After my "near death" experience--or whatever you want to call it--I could not walk or stand by myself. My head had to be held up so I could drink or eat.
With no improvement by the next morning, mom and dad made the decision to have me "put down" (euthanized). With only a few hours to go before my appointment, I got up from where I'd been laying on the floor and unaided walked a good twelve feet (four meters) to the litter box, used it all by myself, and then walked out of it.
It seems I wanted more time with mom and dad so they canceled my appointment with the vet.
12-APR-2016
Outdoor Snack
That afternoon mom and dad took me outside to enjoy the sunshine. Despite my earlier display of walking prowess, I had trouble standing and could only wobble a short distance on my own. Here I am lapping up some water with a mix of wet food in it. For some reason, this became my preferred method of drinking water.
Because our high-altitude sun is so very intense with less atmosphere to go through, dad held an umbrella over me so that I didn't overheat. With only a few minutes of sun exposure, my coat would otherwise become unpleasantly hot to the touch.
13-APR-2016
Exquisite Rest
Mom and Dad are taking me outside as much as possible. I don't have the strength to explore the yard, but the cool, soft grass under the shade of an umbrella makes an exquisite resting place.
14-APR-2016
Resting in My Cat Bed
Mom and dad have monitored and assisted me 24-hours a day since the events of a few days ago. Last night dad slept on a pallet on the floor while mom sat beside me as I lay in my cat bed. She placed me beside dad and I slept with my nose pressed into his arm. It was very dear.
Today, for the first time in weeks, the transdermal Tramadol medication I take for pain is no longer managing my discomfort. My rear legs are weak and I can't hold myself up. Once again, they made the decision to let me go.
While all this was happening, I listened to the "Wisdomkeepers: Paqo Andino" soundtrack on the music system. The Andean flute music soothes my spirit.
14-APR-2016
Mom Holding Me
Mom holds me in her arms as she takes me on a last tour of our back yard.
14-APR-2016
In the Backyard
Mom rests me on the grass while she props up my head and massages my neck.
14-APR-2016
Last Day in the Sun
As our veterinarian appointment drew near, I enjoyed the sun on my face. Shortly after this photo was taken, we went inside and I wobbled my way to the rug in mom's bathroom and collapsed on my side. Mom and dad talked to me and stroked my coat as the clock advanced to the appointed time.
I passed without pain. Dr. Van first gave me an injection to relax me. After that took effect, the final injection went into a vein in my leg. In moments I was gone. Mom and dad then drove my remains to the pet crematorium.
Dad says I was stoic, and tough, and yes, incredibly strong-willed and determined all the way to the end. My presence filled our house.
It will take awhile to adjust to life without me. But it was time to go.
Now I AM FREE.
14-APR-2016
Cremation Box
In preparation for my passing, several months ago dad made a special box and decorated it with floral wrapping paper. We did not know when I would make my transition, we just knew that there wouldn't be time for such niceties when it actually occurred.
Colorful tissue paper lined the inside, making a soft bed. Dad took this photo once the box was complete.
Mom and dad carried me to my last vet appointment in the open box. I rested comfortably and hardly moved while mom gently stroked my coat and talked to me. Afterwards they carried my remains to the animal crematorium where they stroked my head for the last times and said their final goodbyes.
18-APR-2016
Memorial Display
After I passed, mom created a memorial display for me. The tulips are from our yard. A heavy spring snowstorm was on the way, so mom clipped the flowers and brought them inside so that they would not be crushed by the storm.
You may notice that there is a light-colored spot on my forehead in the framed photo. This photo was from 2013, some months after I came to live in my new forever home. Dad says that the spot resembled the two-dimensional outline of a star tetrahedron (merkaba). It was visible for a few days and then it receded.
27-APR-2016
Rainbow Bridge
Mom and dad picked up my ashes a few days after I passed. We thank the good folks at Pet Cremation Services in Wheat Ridge, CO, for their services.
THE RAINBOW BRIDGE
"Just this side of Heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.
When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here,
that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge.
There are meadows and hills for all our special friends so they can run and play together.
There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.
All the animals who had been ill or old are restored to health and vigor;
those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again,
just as we remember them in our dreams of days gone by.
The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing;
they each miss someone very special to them who had to be left behind.
They all run and play together,
but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance.
His bright eyes are intent; his eager body quivers.
Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass,
his legs carrying him faster and faster.
You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet,
you cling to each other in joyous reunion, never to be parted again.
The happy kisses rain upon your face;
your hands again caress the beloved head,
and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet,
so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.
Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together..."
Author - Unknown
14-MAY-2016
Incense and Prayers
Today is the three-year anniversary of when I came to live in my new home with mom and dad. Although that does not sound like a long time, we squeezed a lifetime together in those days. It is also the one-month anniversary of my passing.
This morning mom and dad visited the Compassionate Dharma Cloud Monastery along Highway 285, south of Conifer, in Jefferson County, Colorado.
They burned incense for me and their departed friend, NancyP, who passed a few months ago after a long illness. As the incense burned and the mist intensified, mom offered prayers to Avalokita (Quan Yin) in our names.
Left, the packet dad made to carry a bundle of incense for me. The drawing on the paper is a Tibetan Dai Ko Myo, symbol of divine healing.
Right, mom prays in the fog.
04-FEB-2015
Miss You, Darling 14 Sept 2016
Sweet baby girl, it's been five months since we had to let go of your physical form. The absence of your presence is still a source of heartache for us. You should be there on the couch in your cat bed, keeping an eye on us, or sleeping between us at night, or snuggled onto one of our shoulders, cheek to cheek.
We know many people will not understand the loss, and might think, "It was only a cat. It was only a dog," but the truth is, you were simply one of us, as integral to the family as any human.
Some day I'll take your cremation medallion and wear it on a chain around my neck, but it's still too soon. We have more processing to do and it'll happen in its own good time.
You wanted a large photograph of yourself, "bigger than Miss Kitty's photo on the fridge," and you have it on the top shelf in the living room.
Sometimes, at night, I feel the light kitty-cat steps on the outside of the covers--too light to be those of your sister Panthor--and I figure it's you, coming for a quick visit. I know you are never far away, and will always be in our hearts.
We love you muchly, mom and dad.
14-APR-2017
One Year Gone 4-14-2017
Today we threw a dozen pink roses off a bridge into a slow-moving creek, not to say goodbye, but to say, we remember you so very fondly and so very profoundly. Sweet precious girl, may your spirit flow free, unbound by suffering and pain. Now and forever, you shall always be, our baby girl.
28-Mar-2019
Three Years Gone
Photo: Blackie resting after playing in our living room.
The big change since my transition three years ago is that our dear friend Blackie is now an official member of the household. Although he was always a gentleman when he showed up for food, he was never too approachable. He had been badly mistreated by "humans" at times, so his wariness was understandable.
A couple of years ago, some rescue organization or person captured him, had him spayed, and then returned him to the neighborhood. Always a ruthless fighter when it came to other cats, this calmed his disposition quite a bit. That summer, he began sitting in mom's or dad's lap while they were out in the yard.
Eventually, he smoozed his way indoors and became dad's number one lap cat. Now they spend hours every day in a recliner, watching bird videos on YouTube, or just enjoying the warmth of each other's company.
Recently, my sister Panthor--whom we thought would never be a lap cat--began sitting in mom's lap in the evenings, which is very precious.
