To feel like this?

[Canshopwillshop]

Wasn’t sure where to post but I feel like I’m going mad and just can’t work out if my reaction is normal or not. Basically our much loved family cat is in vet hospital seriously ill with kidney problems and we don’t know if he’s going to make it. He’s only 8 and it’s been sudden and unexpected.

Since he went in yesterday morning I’ve been ridiculously anxious - tight chest, palpitations, stomach churning, crying on and off (not in front of DC) etc. I’m taking Kalms and Rescue Remedy and will probably drink lots of wine tonight too!

I know some will think ‘he’s just a cat’ but can I ask any cat owners out there if they think my reaction is normal or do I need to get a grip? My friend (who only has dogs) was sympathetic but I can tell she thinks I’m over-reacting.

I should say that I’m generally not v strong in these situations since losing my mum, dad and only sibling over the last 10 years. It feels like the grief flood gates are opening again! I am an emotional wreck and I dread to think how I’ll be if the worst happens. I’ll need to get my shit together for the children who will be devastated if he doesn’t make it. Be gentle with any replies please.

You’re not over reacting. Your fear had reanimated all your grief and loss .
Go onto YouTube where there are loads of calming down guided meditations. They really help I the moment. But ultimately it sounds like you are flooded with grief, and need to express some so it’s not trapped in your body causing palpitations. Have you had any help with grieving, like bereavement counselling?

Hope your cat is doing ok. Pets give you so much joy but the downside os because you love them it is distressing when they are very poorly or die. Best wishes to you both.

Any news on your boy OP?

You definitely aren't overreacting when My cat died a couple of years ago I had several days of having to nip into quiet rooms at work for a cry. Love for pets can be very deep and powerful. I'm keeping everything crossed that your cat recovers

Hi OP,

So sorry to hear about your cat- any news yet?

I don't think you're overreacting at all. You've lost some of the most significant people in your life and experienced far too much loss. We love our pets and of course we grieve when we lose them!

UPDATE 😀 OMG I can’t believe it but he has improved significantly and the vet said we should be able to take him home tomorrow!!! I was not expecting that at all and I am so so happy. He has got chronic kidney disease and a possible hormone problem but they can be managed at home with a special diet etc and the vet said he should live a normal life for a good few more years.

Thank you so much for your supportive posts - it has really helped me get through the rollercoaster of the last few days.

Without the backstory about losing your parents and sibling in the last ten years I would have said the reaction was slightly OTT

Really?! Sheep even without the backstory as you delightfully put it, it’s not OTT!

OP I hope your lovely cat is better soon.

YANBU I lost my 7 year old cat a few years ago to sudden onset kidney problems. We did everything we could to try to save him but in the end it was kinder to let him go. I was devastated and cried a lot, he was a member of our family.

Kiss - might save the champagne until he’s actually home. I’m afraid of jinxing things!

Re-Experiencing past grief in situations like this is very normal.

Watching helplessly as your beloved family pet and friend suffers is horrendous.

I had to go through this with my cat, 3 years ago, it was an awful experience, I still cry when I talk about it.

Kiss - salmon yes, absolutely!
Thanks guys, I really appreciate all your kind comments. I’m sorry that so many people on here have lost beloved pets.

He’s home 😀 Might only have him for a couple more years depending on how his kidneys do but I’ll take that and hope he manages a bit longer.

That is great news op!!

I have a little cat called ginger and he is famous where we live. He's got a lovely little personality and has a very close relationship with my daughter.

His brother went missing two years ago this Halloween and I dread to think what may have happened to him.

Hope your cat is back to full health soon x