Big Tom Memorial

Late last month, Big Tom (AKA Oreo, Blackbeard, Long Tail, Scamp, Big Boy, Bubby, & El Diablo) got sick and was diagnosed by the vet as having FIV (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus) which is described as “feline AIDS.” Dad spent almost $600 for treatment over that Labor Day weekend, resulting in a rebound for Bubby–er–Big Tom.

But he got sick again last week, so Dad stayed home with him instead of going to Bellevue. Yesterday when we got home, Big Tom was having a lot of trouble breathing. He had an appointment scheduled for tomorrow to take out some stitches, but I told Dad I didn’t think Big Tom would make it that long.

So we took him to the vet today, and they determined he had fluid on his lungs. Dad had them drain the fluid, but it turned out to be all pus. The vet said since he developed such an infection despite already being on antibiotics, it wasn’t a good sign. Dad agreed that it would be best to put Big Tom to sleep.

Dad and I were with Big Tom for the procedure. They have a nice room for the family to be in. Dad got to hold Big Tom, who was still having a hard time breathing despite the fluid being drained. The vet and her assistant laid Big Tom on a blanket on the floor and gave him the shot. He died within seconds.

Dad took the whole thing very well. He’s already taken a liking to Spitty (AKA Spitfire), one of the kittens.

		He was a cute kitten that Dad saved from freezing to death the winter of 2005.
		He was Dad’s favorite cat ever.
		Goodbye, Big Tom.