Sadness, Hopefulness

When I started this blog it truly was all about finding homes for these adorable foster kittens.  I never really considered what else it could become.  

As the litters came and went and the posts accumulated, I realized (thanks to many nice notes and comments from you) that this blog wasn't just a blog, it was a place where many kind-hearted, kitten-loving people gathered each day.

Many have shared with me that this place offers levity and is often a day-brightener.  I know it's not just because of our cute kittens - you all contribute so much to make this a positive place.  Keeping all of this in mind, I try my best to concentrate on the joyful parts of fostering, and avoid the messier or more painful parts of this kitten business.

But every now and again, not-so-good things happen that I do have to share with you. Today I have one of those stories, and more than anything on this earth right now, I wish I didn't have to tell it.  Partly because I just wish it never happened, and also because I don't want to make you sad.

Yesterday we said goodbye to dear Filbert Stout.  A virus made him very ill and in addition to that, there were some serious complications going on within his one-pound body.  It was a battle that he just wasn't big enough or strong enough to win.

The big issue was  intussusception of his intestine, which can be corrected by surgery for healthier kittens, but in his state and with this virus,  it would of been pointless to even try.    We were left with no choice but to end his short life, and it was heart-breaking decision to make.

I know you barely got to know him, but let me tell you, Filbert Stout was a special one.  He was roly-poly and goofy, animated and bright.  Like most tabby boys, he was sweet and affectionate. Even in his final moments, he was a total love.

I mentioned before he had a smiley face on his belly. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to document this. You can see a bit of the smile across his abdomen but his arms are covering the eyes.

Please take note of those fabulous toe-beans.

 

Whenever I entered their room, he always charged to the front of the cage to purr hello.  No matter if he was mid-nap, mid-wrestling match, or eating breakfast, he always dropped what he was doing to say "hi".

He was such a dear, dear thing.


Thankfully, his sisters aren't showing symptoms of this virus, but there's a possibility it could show up later, so there is some concern.   We are watching Audrey and Wylla closely, taking many steps to protect them, and are giving them lots of good drugs.  They're not out of the woods yet, but things are looking good.   We just have to wait and see what happens, and hope for the very best possible outcome.

I'm trying hard to keep my mind positive, and just think good thoughts for the girls.  I hope you will join me in doing the same.

Again, I am sorry I had to deliver this news to you today.

With much love,

Laurie