I need to say goodbye to my gorgeous girl

[cloudjumper]

She's 18, and over the last 6 months, she's been steadily going downhill. Went to the vet this morning to see if there is anything that can be done now to increase her quality of life, but there isn't (apart from high-dose painkillers, which would only be a temporary solution really).
So I now need to make 'that' appointment... I know it's the right thing to do, it's heartbreaking to see her - losing weight, almost completely blind, arthritic, losing weight and with a substantial mass around her liver (the vet felt today), so her quality of life really isn't what it should be.
But I've had her since she was 5 weeks old, she was my first 'baby', and she's been part of my life for so long now.

And how do I explain this to my kids?! DS is 8, DD is 3, and they both totally love her. This is so hard.

I'm so sorry. It's bloody hard. Hugs to you.

I’m so sorry. Knowing it’s that time is heartbreaking. She has been so well loved her entire life. Being with her at the end is the ultimate gift.💐

I've booked her in for tomorrow afternoon. Would prefer to do a home visit, but they only do them on Tuesdays, and I'm away for work next week.
The lady I spoke was so lovely, she said it's no problem to cancel at short notice if I find I need more time. Can I have a few more years, please?!

I'm so sorry OP. It's just heartbreaking

I'll say something someone once said to me on here when it was that time for my first 'baby' and I was struggling to make the appointment decision,'You've loved and cared for her and given her an amazing life. It's your chance now to show her the ultimate love and give her a good and peaceful death. Better a day too soon than a day too late'. I'm crying just typing that and it's a long time ago. That gave me strength at the time and much comfort since, I hope it does you. Thinking of you and your wee fur baby.

It is so sad saying goodbye. Really hard playing “God” and making that decision for them.

Sounds like you are a great cat mum and know the time is right to end her suffering.

I guess it will teach your kids about death being part of life, and all that bollocks.

Hugs.

It is the kindest thing to do under these circumstances...but oh so sad... she sounds like a very much loved pet and you gave her a great life

I had to make this decision with my 18 year old last year. It's awful, wondering if you should give it a few more weeks ... months, but knowing that your cat is suffering.

I took some videos of him on his last day, then couldn't bring myself to look at them for a few months because I was too upset. When I eventually did, I was shocked by how ill he looked - I think I had become inured to it over time, as he went gradually downhill - and I knew then that it had been the right time.

I hope that your dear girl has a peaceful end, OP.

You do it , and remember that the pain that you feel is so that she doesn't have to.

Our old girl was 17yo , it was very peaceful. My DC helped DH dig the hole and DS donated a cotton bag to wrap her in. (Action Man camoflague)

Be with her , be the last thing she sees .

Could you get a copy of 'Goodbye Mog' for your DC?

Oh god not goodbye mog I cant read it without crying and that was years after my cat died

This is the hardest part of having pets. You clearly have her best interests at heart which I know doesn't make it any easier on you but it is the kindest thing for her. I think the Blue Cross have something on their website which is useful for kids.
We had the best ever vet looking after our old girl and she told me some things to say to my DD to prepare her but sadly it all escapes me now. It was a few weeks later we said goodbye and our vet was away but luckily the other vet and nurse who I knew were so kind and sympathetic. DD was 7 at the time and not there but she was old enough to understand and said her goodbyes. We did have to send her in to school with a note as she was visibly upset.
Thinking of you all

I’m so sorry. My thoughts are with you all.
It will be devastating for your children. No one can or will pretend other wise. I still remember how much I sobbed when my hamster died when I was 7.
It might be nice for them to draw a picture for him of the 3 or them all playing together.
X

It's heartbreaking, but you are doing the kindest thing.

My one cat was diagnosed with a terminal illness and put to sleep within days. My DC were both 8 at the time and it was hard explaining (as I was grief stricken) but I find children more resilient in so many ways and mine found drawing pictures helped.

Your cat is very lucky to have had such a lovely life with a wonderful family.

It's something I've had to do three times now and it never gets any easier, but it is the kindest gesture you can give as an owner - and that love will be with your dear girl always.