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Sunday, August 11, 2013

Kitty Caretakers

I often speak about how stressful it is to care for an ailing pet; how difficult it is and how draining. But also that there is a connection made that can’t be broken. Anyone who’s has a sick kitty knows how deep this runs. But what happens when the kitties become the caretakers?

This has been a very difficult summer for me. My father became very ill quickly and we almost lost him a couple of times. I’ve spent a lot of my time going back and forth to the hospital and taking care of my elderly mom as well. I wore myself out and my kitties knew it. They could tell something was wrong and different and did all they could to show me how much they love me.

There was no time or energy for playing. I came home and took naps, ate something, then went back out. I came back home, did my nightly rituals, tried to keep it together and went to bed. In between all of that I did laundry, dishes, housework, etc. etc. But something else happened that was wonderful. I got extra cuddles, extra kisses and extra love from my furry kids.

It was just what the doctor ordered as I was very scared and stressed. Finnegan and Lacey love my mom and dad and oftentimes go downstairs to their house with me to visit them. When they couldn’t go for awhile they knew something was wrong. So they gave me extra meows of comfort, they kneaded the bed longer and more often and they looked at me with eyes that said “we’re here for you mom, whenever you need us”. I don’t know what I’d do without my two nursemaids. But I’m so grateful for them.

They were so patient and understanding during this hard time, as if they knew that I needed their love more than ever. And I got it. I’m lucky to have such smart kitties, because for once I needed them more than they needed me. And honestly when we think about why we have pets in the first place, isn’t this the very reason? They are unconditional love and support during good times and bad. And there’s nothing better in this world than when your kitty kisses your tears away and purrs next to your heartbeat. That’s the best medicine there is. 

7 comments:

Shadow said...

Well said...so glad your kittys could sense that you were needing extra love and snuggles. I dont know what I would do without mine either :)

IBDKitties said...

they are amazing aren't they?

SammysMom said...

This brought tears to my eyes. So beautifully written about beautiful babies :)

IBDKitties said...

Thank you so much Shadow and Sammy's Mom! Glad you liked it. Seems I'm going to need my babies even more as now my mom has health issues. sigh.

Carol said...

I teared up reading this. It rings so true. First it was kitty Misha who took care of me...my Colette is the one who is at my side giving comfort. She doesn't care if it's a temporary (big) hurt such as stubbing a toe, or if it's something much larger. She's there.

Kelly said...

It is amazing how intuitive these beautiful creatures are. They seem to know exactly when we need them the most. I was sick for several weeks in June and my kitties never left my side. I'm glad your sweet Lacey and Finnegan are there for you, Lisa!

IBDKitties said...

I'm so glad this blog really touched everyone. I try to write from the heart and my experiences. I know I haven't been writing much lately. But I knew this was something we all could relate to. so glad your kitties are all such a comfort to you as well.