Fourteen Years

Renn died this morning, at 9.53.

A mass had grown up, very rapidly against or in his intestines, and was blocking food from getting through. The huge abdomen that Renn had developed was the body trying to deal with the blockage. He was, the veterinary doctor stated, in pain. He no longer feels that pain.

Renn was the last of the First Four; his death means the end of an era. He knew every cat I had, from the first to the last. It will take a while to write his memorial article, as his time with me comprises a great many memories. He was my constant companion, sleeping on my bed each night, and, until recently, keeping me company at bath-time. He was with me for fourteen years, and it will now be difficult not to have him with me for even a day, my big boy.

Very Much Older

Renn is in a bad way. He is not eating, only licking at his food, and he is now having trouble climbing or walking to locations he could get to just days ago. He almost fell trying to get into the saddle on top of Cammie’s old cat-tree, and so doesn’t try any more. Most strange and worrying of all, is the sudden expansion of his sides. I noted not so long ago that my big boy was flat when he lies down. Now he is fat, yet his spine has no padding. This change appeared in the last week.

I don’t believe he is in pain, though he may be suffering some mild discomfort. He can still sleep undisturbed. Nonetheless, I will make an appointment with his doctor for as soon as possible.

My oldster is suddenly very much older.