As long as a pet's still happy, I'm for medicating and assisting. You'll know when it's time.

I'm grateful right now that both my cats are very young, and appear healthy. Especially as I just recently realized that it has taken me almost two years to actually bond with Tommy. I've liked him since he was a tiny kitten, and cared about him, and was anxious for him if he was hurt or absent too long, and admired his kitty-ness. But I think I was too hurt still by the loss of our dog to let myself love another pet so much.

Then, a couple weeks ago, Tommy came over and put his paw on my leg, a habit of his that means he wants lap time and cuddles. As I picked him up, I suddenly felt a deep affection for this purring bundle, who has his own definite independent-minded personality, and his own ideas about affection and comfort. I was at that moment amazed that these little animals, little carnivores, are so desirous of living with us, not just for the food and shelter, but for the love of our company. It is a great gift, I think.