just diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy five weeks ago. As described in the literature on cats with congestive heart failure, a blood clod formed and paralyzed his back legs. He was very frightened and crying out. I rushed him to the emergency vet. He sounded like he was drowning while struggling to breathe. They said he was in the last stage of heart failure. I stayed with him as he went to his rest. We estimated he was 14 or 15. He was one of 4 stray Tom cats that showed up, one year apart, at my house in Fayetteville and stayed. I am down to the last one who was Gabby's BFF. I don't know what he will do without his snuggle buddy.

Somewhere in the photos in this group is a photo of my 4 semi-feral guys from back in 2010 or 2011. Happier times.