A couple of weeks ago I received my September Cat Fancy magazine. After I was diagnosed with cancer, Lovey said she would get me a subscription to Cat Fancy. Now I battle with Chewbakka over who gets it first. He says he should get it first because he likes to read the articles; I say I should get it first because it is my subscription! So what if I mainly like to look at the pictures and check out the ads for the latest trend in feline fashion. I leave the heavy reading to Chewbakka.
This month’s cover story is the Maine Coon, a very popular breed at cat shows. Also known as the American Longhair, the Maine Coon is the largest domesticated breed of cat, males weighing up to 25 lbs. and up to 16 inches in height at the shoulder. One of the oldest natural breeds in North America, it is specifically native to the state of Maine, where it is the official state cat. Their beautiful long dense coat make them perfect for northern climes. Many breeders think of them as the premier family cat.
I am really enjoying my Cat Fancy magazines, although this issue has an article that really hit home. It’s about Feline Hospice Care. As for humans, there is now the option of Hospice Care for cats suffering from a terminal illness. Care can be given either at home or in a hospital environment. I am fortunate that Lovey has had veterinary training and, therefore, is able to administer the medications I require. For those who cannot, there is Hospice Care. Although not for everyone, it is nice to have an alternative that gives a family time to say good-bye and reconcile themselves with the loss of a well-loved pet.
I know my time with my family may only be a question of months, but at least I am with my family and they with me, and I will be able to live out the rest of my life as free of pain as possible. I know when the time does come that Lovey will not allow me to suffer but she and the rest of my family will have had the time to reconcile themselves with my passing and I will leave knowing they will not grieve my absence but be happy for the extra time we had together.
