I don't know what to do

[midnightmunchies]

My 16 yr old puss has been unwell for the last 14 days - he had lots of his teeth out about 2 months ago and recovered really well, then about 2 weeks ago he started dribbling lots. We have taken him to the vets several times and they have been treating him for gingivitis and a possible oral tumour. The vets have been great but we are now really treating him palliatively. He is still eating soft/wet food and is still going outside so I can't bring myself to let him be PTS, but I am due to go on holiday abroad for 2 weeks in 2 days time - my daughter is already out there. The vet says puss may or may not last. My neighbours are amazing and have said they don't mind looking after him and phoning me if they think the time has come and they would take him to the vets. I just feel so guilty leaving him and leaving my neighbours to deal with it all. I know one can tell me what to do, I just needed to talk - I can't stop crying.

Oh poor you.

The only thing I can say is that many years ago, I left a decision on putting an old boy down far too long on one occasion. I regretted it later and learned from it. I'll fight like a tigress to help them keep going if it's worth it for them but no further, nowadays.

Thanks cozie.

Don't feel bad, you've given him a great life & are doing your best to keep it good for as long as possible. You have nothing to feel guilty about. If your neighbours are kind trustworthy people then GO on holiday, you need some distance.

My mums cat had the same tumour at the same age and I know my mum feels really bad that she didn't have him put down sooner 16 is a good age and tbh I would in your situation put him to sleep rather let him get to the point where he is really suffering sorry.

Thanks everyone for your honesty. It's so hard when he is still talking to me and still asking me for food - even if he does get in a mess with it. He is such a character. I will miss him so much - I know I need to put his needs over mine but it is so difficult. I have to pop out now, but will catch up later.

I agree with girliefriend, I would take him to the vet before my holiday, that way your cat wouldn't suffer and your neighbours would not be in a very awkward position. I had to do the same with my 16 yr old cat, I think I left it longer than I should but once it was done I actually felt relieved he wasn't going to suffer for another minute and the vet agreed.

Have spoken to the vet agian this morning. He feels it is too early for puss to be PTS and that we need to give his medication longer to work/ change them about until they have some effect. My neighbours are the best and I have fully explained the situation to them - they are still happy to look after Puss. The vet also said that if my neighbours felt it was too much, he would look after puss. I am very lucky to have such great support all around.
Thanks for all your advice.

That's pretty good news -and what nice neighbours and vet. Enjoy your holiday now you know things are organized.

Thanks cozie. He does seem a little better this evening. My neighbours really are so lovely. Think I will be a little less worried now whilst I am away. My neighbour will keep me updated regularly.