r.i.p. janet the wonder-rescue kitty (unknown, 19XX---may 23, 2011).

Music: The Decemberists: The King is Dead (2011)

I've returned from the vet, having made the decision to put my last foster kitty to sleep. This is the third cat I've put down in as many years, so I do think my career as a rescue foster is over. It's too much; I'm just not cut out for the sad part of fostering.

I came home today to find Janet trapped in the handle of a basket (where I have an electric blanket for the cats). At first it was comical, until I noticed after I freed her she was having convulsions. I rushed her to the vet, where she was quickly diagnosed with hypoglycemic shock. Apparently, her insulin dose was too high (she was diagnosed as diabetic only five weeks ago). I was told it was a "uphill battle" to save her, and even then, she may have brain damage. The uphill battle for the next two days was $1400 (two days in the kitty hospital). I decided the best course was to let her go. A hard decision, but in the end, I think a humane one. The vet techs and doctors agreed, so that was a comfort.

I'll miss this fierce old lady---she came back from the brink of death more than once. She was a fighter. She was also aggressive with her affections, and determined to wake me at the crack of dawn every morning.

Her story is a sad one (I detail it here). But, in the end, she did have some good years while she was with me. And for that I am grateful. Goodbye sweet Janet.