20 years of Katarina...

It's always sad to say goodbye to a beloved member of the family...but when they have had a long, happy life, the knowledge of that parting is somewhat, not totally, easier.

As mentioned in a previous entry, Katarina was adopted (always adopt) from North Shore Animal League on a cold, late January day. It wasn't kitten season here in New York. I truly believe in my heart that she was one of the kittens transported up from the south for adoption. Only weeks after bringing her home, we read how NSAL often rescued kittens and puppies from the south. She was one of the lucky ones (PLEASE remember to SPAY & NEUTER) that found her way here. 

The joy of welcoming a new kitten into your home is always a magical day. I remember the long drive home from Port Washington and the soft meows coming from the cardboard box we held on our lap. Dad greeted us at the door, as he is not one to go into shelters ("would break my heart") and asked if we had brought home 1 or 2! Having just gone through a big to do just to be able to adopt ONLY 1, I wish I had known I could have brought 2 home this time. It was something I would remember for the future! Opening up that box and having a bay running around the furniture is a memory I will treasure. Katarina was here to stay and find a way into our hearts. She was our sheer delight - center of attention - truly part of the family.

I can not go into her 20 years here and now, but let's say those were happy times for me and my family. 

In the last 2-3 years of  Katarina's life, she was discovered to have Kidney Disease (do you know what's in your pet's food!), which we kept under control with prescription food and 2 oral medicines which had to be administered twice a day. It was exhausting on some days chasing her around the house to do so...but I would stop at nothing to ensure a few more years with our mushy girl.

On an October week I had off from work, Katarina decided her time was coming to an end, and overnight her health took a turn for the worse. I was afforded my week off from work with her before she finally told us it was time. I thank her for that time, and for the signs she gave, making our hardest decision easier (if that is possible).

20 years with her. Who could top that? The hole she left was so huge, the grief was so painful at the time...Surely 2 new kittens would help ease the pain. 

If only I had known...

P.S. - As I post this with today's date - I see that it is Miss Kitty's Rainbow Bridge crossing date - 24 years gone - still remembered and loved! Miss Kitty...my first!