Sad News

 We found out last week that our sweet kitty Shelby has intermediate cell lymphoma on her intestines.  She had been vomiting a lot, so our new vet did an ultrasound that found the problem.  The vet suggested that we take her to a specialist in Asheville for a needle biopsy.  That confirmed the cancer diagnosis and identified the type.  We were told that with surgery and chemo, she might have 6 - 12 months to live.  With palliative care, 1 - 3 months.  We have chosen the latter route.  There is no reason to put her through so much, with so little chance of long-term success.  We met with our wonderful vet a few days ago and have begun palliative care, which at this point is prednisone.  Right now, Shelby does not seem to be in pain, just more picky about food and a bit more lethargic.  (It is hard to tell with a cat because they sleep so much anyway.)  We had a very sad moment a couple of days ago when we came home. For the first time ever, she didn't run to meet us at the door.

So we are taking it one day at a time, enjoying her for as long as we can.