Wow. This is definitely not the post that I had intended to write for today. The last 48 hours have been a total whirlwind of emotion for me. My dear Cinco has left my home for his Heavenly home. It was completely unexpected and Dave, Manna, and I are all still in shock. I would like to fill you all in on what happened, for my closure and perhaps for yours as well.
Unusual Behavior
Cinco looking regal in black and white.
Monday (April 25, 2016), everything was perfectly normal. Cinco was his usual playful self. He begged for food, sat in my lap, purred, gave happy paws, ate treats, and the whole 9 yards. I would never have thought in a million years that anything was wrong with him.
Tuesday, Cinco wasn’t interested in his breakfast. I figured he didn’t want that particular food (being a picky kitty). By dinner, I knew something was wrong because he wasn’t interested in dinner either and wouldn’t accept treats. We had gone through a bout of this with him before in October and the next day he decided to eat again and everything was okay (even according to the veterinarian).
I knew for sure something was wrong later when he started hiding in the closet. Dave and I decided to call the vet first thing in the morning because it was already really late. I was floored when Cinco dutifully came out when he heard me taking pictures of Manna for Wednesday’s Niptoon. He didn’t feel good enough to play (and I didn’t make him), but I got a few shots of him catloafing while Manna inspected him. I could see in his eyes that he wasn’t feeling well.
Visiting the Veterinarian
Cinco having fun with the rainbow toy.
Wednesday, we went to the veterinarian. Cinco was running a fever of 105° F ( 40.6°C ), which is about 3 degrees above normal. The veterinarian noticed blood splatter on his retinas and a very high resting heart rate and was very concerned. We did an ultrasound. The results were that he had an enlarged liver and dilated kidneys.
The ultrasound didn’t give us enough information, so we did blood work. His blood was so thick that some of the blood tests couldn’t be run. The protein levels in his blood were off the charts. The veterinarian knew that it was cancer (either Large Cell Lymphoma or Multiple Myeloma) for sure and that he was experiencing kidney failure.
Dave had left to go back to work before any of the results from either the ultrasound or bloodwork had come back. The veterinarian gave me three options for treatment. First was chemotherapy. This would cost $3,000 – $5,000 and was not terribly likely to be effective at this point. The second was a treatment of subcutaneous fluids and steroids to make him comfortable until he passes. If Cinco responded to this treatment within 24 hours and perked up, we might have a few extra months with him. Third, was humane euthanasia.
Since Dave was not present, I didn’t want to put Cinco down right away. Dave deserves to have a chance to say goodbye too. He was driving a school bus, so I hadn’t even been able to tell him the results of the test. We did the second treatment and I took Cinco home.
Saying Goodbye
It was a nerve-wracking night, filled with tears as we all came to grips with the reality Cinco’s cancer. Manna sniffed Cinco and groomed his head. She definitely knew what was happening. As the night progressed and Cinco was not perking up, we knew that the most compassionate thing to do was to let go.
We went to the veterinarian’s office as soon as Dave was off of work for his lunch break. Cinco was very weak and he had obviously gone blind overnight. Dave and I hugged each other and we knew humane euthanasia was the right thing to do. The veterinarian was very compassionate and the whole thing was peaceful and quick.
Time to Heal
As you can imagine, Dave, Manna, and I are all very sad at the moment. It is very shocking, but we do have peace that we did the best we could by Cinco. I appreciate all emotional support , especially over the next few weeks. It will be hard. I know we will recover. Cinco gave us a ton of love and we will hold onto that forever. If you know anyone who is able to give, we have begun a YouCaring.com Fundraiser to help cover Cinco’s final expenses (we had to borrow the money).
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Robin, I’m so sorry to hear of your loss. I know how much you loved him. You wrote a wonderful, moving tribute to your precious kitty. He will always hold a special place in your heart.
You are a wonderful “kitty mom” and Cinco knew that. We will all miss him and keep you, Dave and Manna in our prayers. 🙁
We are so sorry. Catch your breath. Love to all of you.
Oh my goodness, we are so sad to hear that Cinco has crossed the bridge. We are sending you hugs and head butts from across the internets. Love and prayers.
Emma and Buster
We are so very very sorry. No matter how much time we have it never seems like enough. He was much loved and we know how much you will miss him. Purrs
Oh Robin, I’m in tears. I’m so sorry. I know words aren’t going to help right now but I’m here for you, as well as the entire pet blogging community. Take care of yourself and give Manna lots of snuggles for me.
So very fast.. With so little time to really process it all…you must be so raw.
My heart goes out to you both.
So heartbroken for you, Dave and Manna. Sending hugs and purrs.
Robin – I am so sorry to hear about Cinco. Tears are flowing as I read your words. I had so hoped that you’d have a little more time with him. Just know, that you have the support of the blogging community if you need us. I’m here personally if you’d like to talk. Sending special hugs and thoughts.
So sorry, Robin. I know you and Dave and Manna are devastated. Sending you virtual hugs and purrs. Know we’re all thinking about you. And that we care. And if you need a pair of ears to talk to or comfortable (yet virtual) shoulders to cry on, I’m here for you.
I am so sorry about Cinco! ((hugs)) <3
I am so sorry. There is no time limit on something like this. Each of you (you, Dave, and Manna) will find your way through the healing process and Cinco will live on forever in your hearts. You may have seen me share this before because I find it to be a very comforting quote when one loses unconditional love:
“What we have one enjoyed,
we can never lose.
All that we love deeply,
becomes a part of us.”
~ Helen Keller
Sending you all hugs.
Robin, I’ve been able to think of little else besides you and your family ever since I heard the news yesterday afternoon. It doesn’t seem possible that everything could happen so fast, yet because of Truffles I know that it does. You were so fortunate to have each other, and because of you he knew a lifetime of love. Comfort your sweet Manna, she is going to miss her big brother so, so much. We won’t forget Cinco and share in your grief. I wish I could give you all a great big hug right now. Mudpie sends you sweet purrs of comfort too.
Robin, I am so very sorry for your loss of Cinco. Losing a furbaby is so hard…and losing one as quickly as you lost Cinco is even harder, I think. I know your heart is hurting. I’m sending you lots of hugs. I hope you can feel them…and the hugs from all of us who care so much.
I’m so very sorry, Robin. What a devastating whirlwind this has been for all of you! I’m sending lots of love and lots of hugs from across the miles.
So sorry for your unexpected loss. My thoughts are with you.
Godspeed your journey buddy, we are truly sorry and send our sincerest sympathies to your mom, dad, and sister manna. We know what your mom and dad did was one of THE hardest things to do, yet we also know they gave you the greatest gifts of all, even up to the very end, those of love and compassion. hugs and love from boomer, daisy, tuna and dude and sauce too
My heart is breaking for you. It seems unfair that Cinco was taken so young as so quickly from you. I am praying for you, your husband and Manna to ease your grief. He was a handsome boy and such a sweetie, I know he will never be forgotten. XO
I am so sorry for the loss of Cinco. I wish you’d had more time to say your goodbyes, but I know that you did the most compassionate, loving thing a cat mom can do, and that was to let your boy go so that he would not suffer. Bless you all.
That is so sad. I am shocked and so very sorry for you.
We’re so sorry fur your loss. We may not know zactly what you’re feelin’ but we unnerstand. Sis Lexi and Cinco are now furee of any pain and will be membered furever.
Luv ya’
Dezi and mommy Audra
My heart is breaking for the three of you. How awful to have this happen so suddenly – at least everybody had a chance to say good-bye. You know, the day before Sparkle made her last trip to the vet, my human didn’t even really know what was going on, but Binga and Boodie did. They actually sat close to her and said their goodbyes that afternoon. I know Manna is missing Cinco lots. Purrs to you all.
So very fast…so very unfair…but so very loved. Thank you for sharing even in your pain.
Robin I am truly sorry for your loss. Every one of us has been right where you are, so do not feel alone on this journey. The love you shared with your Cinco will help sustain you through these dark days, and then that love will heal you. My deepest sympathies and biggest hugs.
We know there are no words, so we send you purrs, hugs and all our love. Run free dear Cinco, your heart touched the world pal.
I’m so deeply sorry, Robin. My heart aches for you and Dave, and I’m sending healing thoughts and energy your way. Hugs to Manna.
Robin, I am absolutely in shock, and my heart is breaking for you. Though it won’t make you feel better, I must share: We lost our Madison at age 10 to lymphoma. He died peacefully at home 13 days after his diagnosis. That all happened so quickly, but losing your precious Cinco just one day after finding out he was ill, seems incomprehensible to me. Please know that you, Dave and Manna will remain in my prayers as you grieve. A new kitty will come into your life when the time is right. Cinco will make sure to find just the right one for you. Sending all my love and warm hugs, Janet
We are heartbroken and sorry that Cinco had to go to the Bridge so suddenly. Thank you for loving him so much, and so well. Purrs, prayers and hugs to you all.
Robin, Dave, Manna, as you know, my heart is breaking for you. I am virtually speechless. If I can barely process this information, I can only imagine how you all are feeling. I am so deeply, deeply sorry. Cinco and Manna both are extra special to me because I am a “Tabby” Girl at heart. He was such a special cat, as you and Dave are special Kitty parents. I know first hand how hard it is to make that final decision, but you showed extreme compassion and caring for Cinco, possibly sparing him more pain. I am here for you too, both personally and professionally. My heart is breaking with yours. I am so deeply, deeply sorry. Praying for strength for all of you in this most difficult and much-too-soon time. ((((hugs))) from all of us.
I’m here to pay my respects to Cinco. *bows head* Take your time to grieve and don’t rush into saving another kitty until you know you are ready. Most of all, take care of yourself.
I am so very sad for your family. It will be hard on all three of you so love each other through it. Cinco was a fabulous cat. He was loved by all of us and will be missed. ♥ ♥
Cinco will be sure to send the right kitty to your loving home when the time comes. Purrs of condolence coming your way and prayers of comfort. ~ Tinker, Anastasia, Chopin, Bridgie and mom Julie xx
Robin, I can’t even imagine what you all must be feeling right now. I am so very sorry. All I can say is that we are all purring and praying for you over here. Cinco had the best life he could have imagined, thanks to you, Dave, and Manna. Sending lots of love and hugs.
Aww, this is so sad. I’m sorry you are going through this. It’s always so hard, whether you know it’s coming or not. Take your time. She was such a beautiful cat.
I’m so terribly sorry for your loss. I know how you’re feeling. Our Koneko, who found us in August 2006, had been doing great just a few days before. I noticed back in February that he just didn’t seem “right”, and I realized that the food missing from his dish was most likely from one of our other cats eating it. Koneko was a Maine Coon boy who was likely at least 4 when he showed up in our yard. When we couldn’t find his owner (we believe he was dumped), we adopted him ourselves. It was a Thursday night and my daughter and I were both worried about him and planned on taking him to the vet the next morning. He passed before we could. This on top of losing my deaf hound girl, Ran (only five years old) on April 20, 2015 and our senior Coonhound girl, Suki, exactly one year later. Three in one year, with two being unexpected, has been hard.
I’ve loved following Cinco’s exploits and will miss him. I’m hoping he and my Koneko find each other at the Rainbow Bridge. Perhaps they’re already playing together there now. Sending prayers for your family.
Robin I am so sorry for your loss of you baby boy Cinco,Cancer is a nasty thing.Cinco had a wonderful life with you and is probably having wild fun as we speak over the bridge.You will see him again one day and what fun the day will be.Our love and thoughts are with you and Speedy sends his snuggles to you all as well,Much love Rachel and Speedy
Robin I couldn’t believe it when I heard it. I’m deeply sorry for your loss. Sending prayers for angel Cinco.
We are so very sorry for this tragic and so unexpected loss. Having lost a precious dog to cancer in 2014, I understand the heartache of making that decision. But it was what was right for you all. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. Rest in Peace Cinco baby.
We are so so sorry about your loss. Just know that Cinco knew lots of love while he was with you and that is so important. Sending lots of hugs.
My heart breaks for you …it’s always devastating to lose our beloved friends, but to have it happen so suddenly, I can’t imagine. Sending you much love and strength. Be gentle with yourselves and take all the time you need to heal. XOXO
We are so very sorry about Cinco, he sounds like a terrific cat. We wish we had the chance to get to know him better. Purrs of comfort and paws of sympathy from all of us.
This is very sad news! My sincere condolences for the loss of Cinco! It was so sudden, but kitties can hide their pain so well! Sending gentle hugs and purrs to you both and Manna! Caro and Austin xoxox
I am sorry not to have known Cinco while he was with you. Sending purrs for peace. Cinco, run free, with all your sight and health back, at the Rainbow Bridge.
We are very sorry to hear this sad news that Cinco has passed and we know you will miss him so very much. Take care of yourselves and remember the good times with him.
We are so sorry for your loss.
We are all so sorry for your loss, RIP sweet, beautiful Cinco.
There are no words to say, only that we know how you feel, the devastation is truly horrendous.
Know that your family and CInco are in our prayers…
Gentle purrs and hugs
Basil, The P.A. and Co xox
So very sorry to hear about the passing of Cinco. I know how hard it is when they leave so quickly without time for you to truly process what is going on. Thank you for the wonderful life you gave to him. Extra hugs for Manna and she also grieves the loss of her friend.
We’re so sorry to read this. We’re in shock as well, it was so sudden, so unexpected. You wrote a wonderful, moving tribute to your sweet Cinco. We send you comforting purrs and gentle headbonks. Purrs
So sad and heartbroken for you all. Was so shocked last night (UK time) to hear how ill dear Cinco had suddenly become. Kept hoping for the best. Always remember you did the right thing for him.
You are in my thoughts.
Hugs and purrs xx
This is terribly sad. Please accept my condolences on Cinco’s passing. Of course you did the right thing. The immediate treatment didn’t help, and he couldn’t see. I’m glad you had that final night with him. He will always be a part of your family, wherever he is. Godspeed, Cinco.
Our Best Purrs Of Comfort to all of you at this sad time…
So very sorry for your loss of Cinco. We know losing a beloved furry is painful. We are certain he left many happy memories behind to help you smile between the tears. A warm hug, purrs and paw taps of comfort.
Robin I am so sorry for your unexpected loss. I’ve enjoyed Cinco over the months and could see what a wonderful cat he was. What happened to Cinco reminded me of losing my Tortie, Saffie. Cats are notorious for hiding symptoms when they are sick, which obviously Cinco was doing a good job of. When I look back over Saffie’s last months after she was gone I realized all the hints were there that something was wrong, but not enough out of the ordinary for me to notice then. By the time the vet said he needed to do a biopsy on a growth in her mouth I got a call that there was nothing to do and to come and say good by to her while she was still under. I never got to say a real goodbye or my husband, so you can hopefully have peace with that. I see you raised enough money for the vet bills so I’m relieved you don’t have to worry about that and can take your time to grieve over Cinco. Sandra, Dolly, Taffy and Rhette.
Times such as these break our hearts but hearts cannot grow until the shell breaks.
Times such as these allow us to see the connections to all things present and past.
Times such as these are sad but highlight the depth of love in our hearts.
We send love, purrs and prayers of support to you all in times such as these
This was so sudden and very sad. We send purrs and prayers of support to Manna, Robin and Dave.
Our Buddy Budd most likely has cancer but has responded well to steroids.
We love him as every day is a blessing
Purrs
Timmy, Dad Pete and Family
I just heard. I’m so sorry. So very, very sorry. It seems like Cinco was just snatched out of your loving arms, without giving you a chance to prepare for the loss. But because it was so quick, Cinco didn’t suffer and that’s a good thing, really. Now he’s in Heaven, where off in the distant future, you will all meet again. In the meantime he’ll be running through the vast Heavenly nip fields, chasing butterflies. Purrs, Seville.
Robin I’m so sorry. My thoughts & prayers are with your & Dave.
Robin, thank you for sharing this story with us all. I know I find it cathartic to write one final post about a beloved cat gone to the Bridge. I hope in some small way, telling us all helped you find closure. You gave Cinco one last gift – to leave this earth peacefully, surrounded by love. Sending love and healing light to you and Dave in this loss.
My condolences on the loss of your sweet friend.
So sorry to hear about the sudden loss of your angel. I am still at work and holding back tears. I just got to know your kitties and your wonderful blog and it’s sad to be reading this. Cinco knows that in his final moments he was the most loved kitty in his earthly life and still will be most beloved now that he has grown his wings. Hugs to you all.
Cinco left lots of precious memories. Sending you lots of love and hugs.
Robin, I am so so sorry to hear what has happened 🙁 🙁
No words….
What a beautiful boy! Prayers and tears for your loss.
Sending comforting purrs. We know what it is like to lose a fursib suddenly
This is terrible. So sorry about Cinco.
We are so sorry for your loss. We know it’s a hard decision to make, but we know our humans do what is the best for us. RIP sweet Cinco. Comforting thoughts and (((HUGS))) to your family.
We are so very sad for you and your family that your precious boy left so suddenly for the rainbow bridge…..it is always so hard to say goodbye when an illness comes on so quickly. May memories of happy times comfort your sad hearts right now and in the dark days ahead…please know we care so much…love the cozy cottage cats
I’m very sorry for your loss. There’s never enough time with a beloved cat.
With sympathy and love,
Maggie
So sad to hear of Cinco’s passing, especially so sudden without much warning. I would be so heartbroken wondering how cancer can sneak up that quickly… hugs and prayers are with you. Purrz from Katie and the Katz.
Dear Robin, Dave, and Manna –
No loss of a beloved companion is easy, but when it’s unexpected, it can be so much more difficult because of the enormous range of emotions and feelings it will bring with it. Thankfully you were blessed with the opportunity to say goodbye to Cinco and to let him know how much you loved and cherished him. That is a precious gift that will always be with you.
He will forever be in your heart and my prayers go out to you all –
Purrs from Deb and the Zee/Zoey gang
We’re so sorry to read about the loss of your beloved Cinco. What a heartfelt way to have to let go 🙁 Although no words can ease the loss you bear right now, just know that you are very close in every thought and purrayer. RIP sweet Cinco. Soft Pawkisses to comfort you <3 <3 <3
This is just heartbreaking! I am so sorry you had to go through this. He will me dearly missed and will live on in your hearts and memories. Peace to you, Dave and Manna. God Speed.
I have just heard of your loss, and I am sorry that another soul has passed. Be at ease, these things come as they will and there is only one choice in reality, and that is the one that has to be made. Be strong and remember the good times and fear not the bad. purrs Erin
Sorry that you had to unexpectedly say goodbye to your beloved Cinco.
We are sorry that we nevfur have had a chance to meet, but pawlease accept our sincere sympathy and condolences.
Its always so hard to loose such cherished friends, our furmily too has had to say quick goodbyes, and once we didn’t even have that chance…
Sending lots of soft purrs and hugss.
((((( ♥ )))))
Saying goodbye is one of the hardest things a pet parent will ever do. I’m grateful to hear that you both were there the entire time. That provided Cinco the love she and comfort she deserved in her final moments. This post serves as a great way to heal and honor Cinco’s life.
I am so sorry Robyn and Dave I did not think that I would every have to write a reply to a post titled “Farewell Beloved Cinco”. I cannot believe it. I lost the Orange Kit in very similar circumstances last year, it was a huge shock. I never got to take her home and had her euthanised there and then. I gave it three months but had to get another Kit, as her absence felt so difficult to overcome. I got a rescue Kit, and it has been the best thing that I have done. He is gorgeous, and although he will never take the place of the old Orange Kit he helps to make her loss easier to cope with. I am so sorry, I know what you guys and Manna are going through, and that it will be difficult at first, but the memories and the support of everyone here will sustain you through those hard days.
We are sending you all our love at this most saddest of times.we did not meet Cinco but that does not mean we do not feel your pain..our own loss last week has us sadly very much empathising with you.So please accept our condolences and fly free Cinco ….Loves Fozziemum and family xxx
Robin, I don’t even know what to say. I can’t believe this happened so suddenly with no warning – that is so scary. It’s every pet parent’s nightmare. I wish you, Dave, & Manna strength and peace. Poor Manna probably doesn’t understand what happened to his beloved cat brother.
Love & Biscuits,
Dogs Luv Us and We Luv Them
Comforting purrrRRRrrrs sent your way. I am glad to hear Cinco did not suffer much.
We are so sorry to learn of sweet Cinco’s passing. It’s a horrible shock to lose a beloved friend in such a short time. You made the right decision to help him the way you did, though it’s always the most difficult decision, it’s the kindest. We send you lots of love and rumbly purrs, may happy memories of a very special pussycat, fill your hearts soonest
Mungo, Jet & Jane The Ape xx >^..^<
I am so very sorry for your loss. My thoughts are with you.
My heart hurts for your family. Beloved CINCO! What a terrible shock. I have had experience with a beloved cat having CRF (we bought 7 months of pretty good quality life with her once I learned how to administer Sub-Q Ringer’s) and another having Mast cell lymphoma (shockingly fast, and an operation bought very little time) among many, many other causes and passings. I know how badly it hurts to lose someone beloved like Cinco, but I hope you share my conviction that he is whole, healthy, and absolutely Loved in a better place, watching over you until you are all reunited in due time. We’ll never forget sweet Cinco! <3
I’m so sad that Cinco left you so suddenly. What a difficult time. I really appreciate your writing all of the details….I’ve been thinking about you and wondering what had happened. Sending heartfelt condolences. Always remember you gave Cinco the best home and most love possible. He’ll live on in our hearts. ♥ Hugs to all of you, especially to Manna who can now be spoiled rotten.
Our hearts go out to Cinco’s family & furiends. Know that you gave Cinco the greatest gift, your love.
<3 nose nudges <3
Olivia
Feeling really sorry. I hope Cinco is really happy in heaven 🙂