I called the vet and the estimate for Tabitha’s surgery is more than I hoped it would be, but less than I was scared that it would be. At least that includes the biopsy. This seems like an awful lot of money to spend on a cat, but this is my cat we’re talking about. After seven years, she’s practically part of the family. And, while she’s not exactly a kitten, she could very well have another 10 years in her. I’d think that this was a completely ridiculous expense if it was someone else, but it’s probably human nature to not really hold ourselves to the same standards that we hold other people. Especially when it comes to the creatures that share a bed with us.
We could save a little money if we didn’t have the growth biopsied, but then I’d have the joy of trying to figure out, on my own, if my cat was slowly dying of cancer. No thank you.
I can’t help but think that this is a complete and utter First World problem. A lot of people in other countries don’t have the luxury of even considering surgery for their pets. Hell, a lot of people don’t have the luxury of owning pets in the first place. I love Tabitha dearly, but I know places in the world where she’d either be competition or she’d be food. A sense of perspective doesn’t exactly make any of this easier, but I suppose that it’s good to remember to count your blessings every now and then.
We’re going to pay for the surgery because we have some money socked away. It’s not going to break the bank, but I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t going to sting a little. The way I see it is this. I’d spend the money (more of it, actually) on a vacation. Why wouldn’t I spend it on someone who greets me when I come home every day and who always finds a way to make me smile?
Let’s all cross our fingers that this will be the end of it.
I hope it’s successful! And you’re right about the First World thing. I had never thought about it that way.
If it was me, I’d definitely pay it. The cat is part of the family, and that just the way it is. I know things aren’t like that in other parts of the world, and they aren’t like that even in some parts of this country, but she’s still part of our family. I can see where you’re coming from!
There is nothing ridiculous about this, Hope. If Tabitha was in her last years and this surgery would do nothing to maintain, improve, or advance her quality of life, the decision might be different. You love her. She loves you. She’s part of your family. You’re doing the right thing. Hope everything goes well with her surgery and recovery!
Fingers absolutely crossed, but I’m also convinced in my mind that it’s a benign growth. I hope Tabitha has a quick recovery!
I’ll be hoping for you, love. One of my besties just went through this. THOUSANDS of dollars to get a huge (thankfully!) benign tumor removed, but her dog can go to the bathroom once more.
It’s the little things.
*bear hug*
Fingers crossed!
I’d do the same thing! Not ridiculous at all!