Dear Otis…

Today we learned that despite our best efforts and a team of many talented doctors and staff, and a devoted and loving family, Otis passed away last night.  He was a rescued Sphinx kitty who had an extremely endearing personality, the most fragile eyes, and a huge heart.  Although Otis had not stopped eating, or developed any other apparent gastrointestinal symptoms (like vomiting or diarrhea), he started losing weight over a few months fairly rapidly.  His little wrinkles became more noticeable. After a few tests, it was discovered that he had a rapidly growing intestinal mass.  He went to surgery immediately, and yet within a week, he had to have a second procedure because the mass was growing that quickly, and it had led to a perforation of his bowels.  Despite a valiant fight, we lost Otis last night at around 9:30 pm in the ICU.  The mass was identified as a form of lymphoma.  The prognosis with chemotherapy was about 6 months to up to 1-2 years, depending on the type and his response to treatment, had he survived the initial surgeries.  His gracious owners were prepared to go all the way with this little guy, but in the end, the disease was too much and his body too weak to comply. 

Today we mourn the loss of yet another heroic creature, who lived, loved, and shared his life with us.  We will have to celebrate that, as best we can, for it is indeed, the most precious gift of life there is. 

 

Dear Otis,

Thank you for sharing with us.

The Staff and Veterinarians at Hatton Vet Hospital.