Tigey, My Miracle Cat

My miracle cat Tigey lasted for 7 weeks before he had another stroke. This time it was much worse and he died before morning. I was unbelievably blessed to have had him for a little longer. I miss him so much. Love you, Tigey. Always. Forever.

It all started when I sat shiva for my boy Tigey for two days before I realized that he wasn't going to die. On April 5, Tigey got really sick. It was suppertime when Tiges suddenly started yowling. Since I was used to him talking, I didn't pay much attention, I didn't look, I just said Tigey, come here.

Next thing I know, Tigey is dragging himself toward me. His two back legs were completely limp and not working. This was truly a horrible situation. I slept on the floor with him for five nights, to keep him safe and comfortable.

It's now May 6, and Tigey is recovering, but I had a terrible scare tonight when I walked by him and thought he was dead. It was dark and I didn't have my glasses on; still it scared the hell out of me and I had a little panic attack.

Ok then.

Week 1

Tigey has a seizure or the dog hurts him. I don't think it was the dog, Jackson and Tigey were good buddies.

He is paralyzed, but rolls gently on his back - yoga.

He eats and drinks.

On 4th day pees in litter box.

Lurching, trying to get control of his legs, stays where he is.

Sleeping mostly.

He stares a bit like he's not sure where he is, or who we are. I am used to him being very smart, noisy, and alert, bossy too.

Week 2

Walking slowly.

Pooped by litter box.

Spaced out & not sure he really knows us.

Eating and drinking more.

Still confused.

Sleeping quite a bit.

Flat Stanley visits from Ohio. Tigey hangs with him a bit.

Week 3

Walking better, gaining more control of his legs.

Moving around a bit.

Climbing again.

Walked to bedroom for first time.

Carried him to back yard and he loved it, but still not moving much.

Hanging out with the family, 1 dog, 1 cat, 3 people.

Flat Stanley is a friend visiting from Ohio. You can read more about this in Flat Stanley Visits California.

This photo was taken two weeks after Tigey's stroke.

Week 4

Traveling to front yard again, where it's more dangerous.

Climbing, much more coordinated.

Moving around house & yard again.

Jumping a bit.

Week 5

Tiges has a bit of a limp, but I have noticed that he forces his legs into the proper position. He jumps up and down, not as high as before, but still pretty good.

He is drinking water again! Very good because it means he is feeling better. When he is sick, he will only drink milk.

He is slightly more affectionate and purring a little, but stays kind of isolated. He is afraid of getting hurt.

He stayed out all night 3 times this week.

It's been my experience that when cats get very sick, they usually die. So I took care of him, and watched him, and fed him. Half & half when he's really sick.

The vet would have freaked him out, that and the ride in the car. I couldn't put him through it. I decided to let nature take its course.

Tigey was about 10 years old when he died. I miss him more than I can say and I will always love him.

Tigey's brother loves to chase the red light or anything remotely mouselike.

This boy is named Trouble. He has been a great hunter since he was a tiny kitten.