Hello Fellow Writer. This is a sad story, but also a heartfelt one because it is a tribute to Misty. You did love that feline and she left beautiful memories for you to cherish. I once lived with a male tabby who chose me and he too was not a cuddler unless the cuddling was on his terms. I called him the thirty-second cat. He was happy to be near by. It is never easy to lose a beloved pet. They become a central, vital part of your life. For ten years Misty was your constant shadow and companion. It is not fair, or right that pets die long before we are ready for them to do so. Unfortunately, vet bills are exorbitantly expensive and the vet you saw seemed to be honest and compassionate. Why undergo extensive and expensive efforts to prolong a life that would not be enhanced, or saved. The one last gesture of love we can bestow on an animal is euthanasia. My sister's lab has been diagnosed with bone cancer and soon he will be 'put to sleep.'I admire your capacity to love. "Misty will send me the right cat at the right time." RIP Misty.Thanks for sharing this story.