Help with a family pet problem?

[Toby]

Hi girls, I have been crazy busy so have not been posting lately but need some helpful advice as to a family pet problem.
Our family cat who is turning 13 years old has been diagnosed with Diabetes. The vet who is excellent gave my husband the news and mapped out a plan to start our cat on insulin shots at a start up cost of $500-600 and then each month there after approx $200 for each month for the rest of the cat's natural life.
My husband comes home crest fallen for he loves this cat (sometimes i think more then me!). He was ready to "sell the farm" and sign off of the treatments but prudently decided to come and talk it over with me..
I love the cat and would miss him terrible, we rescued him from a family who as a kitten tryed to drown him and made cigarette burns on his body for fun (sick sick situation) When we first got the cat we were told because of the abuse it recieved as a kitten it probably would not live past 6 years.
Well our cat is 13 and has had a wonderful loving life, presents at christmas, and a birthday party every year, catnip toys, and its own hand quilted cat bed in two of our room here at home. the cat has bonded especially with my hubby and nothing is cuter then seeing the two of them napping together on the couch!
So, i guess my question is do i bite the bullet and go for the treatments or or make a restful end to our cat's life?
Let me know what you think...
Toby

[Amy]

Wow! That is such a personal choice/preference. I am a little leery of offering my 2 cents. I can only speak for my own pet. I have a 11yr old dog and he is my first baby. He is a large breed dog, so he is definitely slowing down and is not as active anymore. I would move heaven and earth for him if I thought his treatment would improve his quality of life or make it better. If he had cancer, for example, I wouldn't make him go through all those tests, chemo or whatever else they would prescribe. I know he would hate treatment and we would probably keep him at home, as pain free as possible until it was time to put him down.

Your case is harder! Cats can mask their age better than dogs and diabetes is manageable. I know people who wouldn't bat an eye at the price because the opportunity to keep their beloved around is worth every penny. But if you are more based in reality and the cat is great, but it's just a cat, than the money is going to play a huge part. I can't say I would know what to do in your case. Sorry for all the hot air and no advice! LOL

[Diane]

I've got a cat (16 years) and I'd move heaven and earth to keep her alive. For me... I couldn't put her down knowing that it was my decision that put her down. I guess what it really comes down to is if you can afford to do it. If not... then you probably have no choice.

I use to do day care for a family who's cat had diabetes. When they went on vacation I'd go to their house each/every day to give their cat it's pill. (no shots) but I don't think it cost them that much. The cat was very old before it finally passed away.

Good luck with whatever you decide to do.

Diane...

[Mickey]

I would call every vet and clinic in your area, and call the humane society and no-kill shelters, too--tell them your cat has diabetes and you love her and want to treat her, but can't afford the cost your vet wants to charge. Maybe someone could refer you to a place that will treat her at a discounted rate or for the cost of medication only. Maybe they can tell you of a way to get the meds at a discounted price on the internet or some other way (a veterinary school?).

[Diane]

I would call every vet and clinic in your area, and call the humane society and no-kill shelters, too--tell them your cat has diabetes and you love her and want to treat her, but can't afford the cost your vet wants to charge. Maybe someone could refer you to a place that will treat her at a discounted rate or for the cost of medication only. Maybe they can tell you of a way to get the meds at a discounted price on the internet or some other way (a veterinary school?).

Great idea's Mickey... :) I'm sure that there are a lot of people who would be more than willing to help and/or donate their time.

Diane...

[Melody]

I know how tough it is. I would want to try to do everything to keep my pet too but you also need to think of the age and the quality the pet would have. I really don't have much advice but will say one thing knowing you are in my area and I am sure this may offend or maybe I shouldn't name places but here goes anyhow. Don't go to Alta Vista. They will rip you off for all your money and then find out there were better courses of action and cheaper. It's a long story but I hope you have a great vet who is being completely honest with you.
I think if you can afford the treatments and the cat is in otherwise good health then go for it. You and your dh may be lucky enough to have a few more years with her. Good luck.

[BevJ]

Maybe they can tell you of a way to get the meds at a discounted price on the internet or some other way (a veterinary school?).
Working at a university where we have a vet college, I can tell you, at least here, we don't offer reduced rates on anything.

I am sorry to hear about your cat and know you'll make the best decision you can. Hugs.