Quote:
Originally Posted by Bipolartist
I go through phases where I'm fine, I say, "Meh, oh well, I did bad things in the past when I was manic. Nothing I can do about it now but move forward." But now here I am today remembering back two years ago to the day I had my favorite cat in the world put down and I've been crying all day at my desk at work. I think I have a little winter depression going on.
But looking back, he was very sick for a long time and probably would have died within a few days. But he was comfortable at home. The whole thing had me so upset for months, watching him wither away. Then one day I came home from work and I got into an absolute panic. He couldn't walk, he was a mess. I was so upset and got all worked up into a manic fit. I dragged the cat from under the couch, shoved him in a cage, and took him to the vet and had him put down. He was so scared. Why didn't I just let him die at home in peace?? I will regret this for the rest of my life and I don't know how to get over it.
|
It seems as though you are sad that you frightened your cat instead of letting him be at peace at home. I see this from two angles:
1) yes, he may have been frightened a bit, but you were THERE WITH HIM until his last moment. So, yes, he may have been a little uncertain about where he was at, but he had the comfort of your presence....regardless.
2)dying naturally is a scary process, especially for an animal who doesn't understand. He most certainly would have become scared, even at home, had things progressed in the house.
What you did may have been impulsive, but it was kind. We respond instinctively sometimes to situations. Perhaps you were just following your gut. You most certainly prevented your beloved friend from suffering any further.
It's time to let yourself off the hook. Give yourself a hug and say "I did the best thing I could for my friend."
__________________
"My favorite pastime edge stretching" Alanis Morissette
