R.I.P. Gaines

[infinite monkey]

My darling cat, Gainesboro Thomas (Gaines, Gainesburger, Gainesy Wainsy, Buggy Bug...Native American name Panther Scamping) had a seizure today. I took him to the 24 hour emergency vet in South Dayton. According to the doctor, any diagnostics...while offered, would only prolong the inevitable. Seizures indicate a brain tumor, or kidneys or other organs failing.

I thought he was about 15, but in talking to my ex we figured he had to be even older than that. Though we don't know how old he was exactly when we found him, the timeline suggests more like 17.

I had to make the tough decision. I loved this cat more than breathing. He was such a boy's cat, but especially in these last months of it being just me and him, he was a mommy's boy too.

He brought me years of snuggles and laughter, and he has been my rock who was always there after a long day at work. After dinner, of course. What a boy.

He was so beautiful too. I had recently posted about him being a Russian Blue. He was very healthy. Healthier than any of my other cats. He was healthy healthy healthy until one day, today, when he wasn't. I was with him until he was gone. I was given the choice to say goodbye and leave the room. But I was there when he took his last breath. I could only do that for him, in the end.

I love you Gaines. Thanks for being my best pal.

I don't think I'll have another pet for a long time. If ever.