I think my cat's bond with her feline brother and her humans saved her life

[Elyse Orecchio]

Hi! This question is from me :)
Last year, my cat had surgery and was very weak afterward. It looked like she wasn't going to make it, and the vet wanted to keep her in the hospital a few more days. But my husband and I decided to bring her home. We figured if she was going to die she should spend a few last days with Bruce (her brother, my other cat) and us.

Well, as soon as she got home, she started eating! Gone was the howling she had done at the vet! She and her brother had a big reunion, licking each other all over the place. Bruce took excellent care of her and actually stood watch over her!! Within a week she gained weight and now, a year later, is perfectly fine and our little family is complete!

I know you can't exactly tell me that coming home saved her, because who can really know, but is it a possiblility? From your experience, how much of a factor is emotional/mental health in healing?

Sorry for the long question.

[Dr. Stephanie LaFarge]

What a wonderful story that prove how little science knows about the power of relationships to foster healing. I am a psychologist and not a Vet but we have all seen examples of the story you tell. The Vet was right to be cautious and to think that in an emergency he or she wanted the cat in the hosptial. However, since you, as owners, were silling to take the responsiblity for the outcome, it was right that the cat had a chance to come home. If the cat had died, I personally, prefer to have that occur at home when ever possible. While it is terrific that your choice seemed to help this cat survive and thrive, just remember that you will not always be able to 'work this miracle'. When it is time for the cat to die, I support your desire to be in control of the circumstances and to find ways to reduce the suffering....just as you did.