I hate long (kitty) goodbyes...

But I might be even more busted up if our cat, Theo, was just gone.

We found out today that the trouble walking that cropped up last weekend, which they initially thought was a tail-pull injury (which would've been weird, since he's indoor-only), was cancer, and a mass which is growing to crush his spinal column just ahead of his hips.

So tomorrow they're going to come put him to sleep.

Tonight, he's getting a little extra of the pain meds, and fresh salmon for dinner.

He's been an awesome cat, and I'm going to miss him a lot.

Here's the dapper lad in happier times:

I am sorry to hear this... give him extra salmon from me

My sincerest condolences.

They become such a part of our lives...

Poor dude. I fear the day I have to make that decision for Catbutt.

Sorry to hear that.

Having to know you have to put them down is especially difficult.

Give him a rub on the chin for me. That cat has personality and a voice.

I've only lost one furry friend to cancer, but she was our first pet as a couple. It's tough but it's the right choice, which of course doesn't make it any easier. My condolences, sincerely.

:( so sorry to hear that man. Give him a few scratches on the head from us GRM guys.

You have my condolences. We have never lost one to disease but we did lose 2 of our 3 recently from old age(18 and 19 years).

Sorry man, give him an extra hug.

So sorry. I've been there, hurts like hell.

Aww... we scheduled and had ours put down in home a few years back. It was rough.

I'm glad your's is getting the opportunity to enjoy some fresh salmon. Ours was not healthy enough for that.

Oh man, I am so sorry! Losing our pets is super tough, but at least you get to say goodbye.

Want me to mail you our cat for a month to help?

Condolences, he looks just like our fuzz monster (except for the reproductive parts). As much as it sucks, you're making the right decision.

My condolences, he looks like a sweetie.

Sorry, ransom. I lost one of mine a week (or so) ago and it hurts - a lot.

Collins and I send our heartfelt condolences.

I am so very sorry for your loss.

Heartbreaking.

I'm dreading when this time finally comes for my two gals.

Best wishes getting through this.

Man, sorry to hear of this. One day the kid and I will face this decision for Binky the Wonder Cat and I am not looking forward to that.

I hate losing pets, but that will not keep me from getting any more. Have a better day.

Aw man so sad poor kitteh...

If you bawl your eyes out when it happens you have my approval because I'm almost tearing up at the thought of it

My condolences. I'll give our cats extra hugs (they will be sooo thrilled) and attention.

Losing a pet is never easy. I'm so sorry.

Peace and strength for Theo and Ransom.

Our dear Trixie - old enough to drive as of last August - is in early renal failure. We give her subcutaneous hydration every other day and she's doing great, but while we try to be pragmatic about the future, it's what you sign up for when the furry ones move in.

Remember that there's a lonely cat out there waiting for you to open the door...

My condolences.

But as Motomoron said, there are plenty of cats out there in shelters that need a good home.