22 year old friend

Question
Fluffy, has been showing signs of aging lately.  Moving slowly, taking her time standing and sitting.  I noticed on Feb 16, 2007 she was wobbling, she could barely stand up. So I took her to the Vet.  He said she was dehydrated because of a kidney infection.  Her bladder was full and he empty it, and ran test.  He was checking for Diabetes but the results was negative. He ran an IV with an antibiotic and gave me Nutri-Cal a dietary supplement, I mix it with her food because she won't eat it otherwise.  We were hoping that her condition improve, but it didn't.

I came home tonight and found her lying on the floor and she couldn't get up.  It appeared that she twisted her front paws together and she couldn't straighten them out.   I don't know how long she was lying there. I moved everything she needed in one area, to make it convenient for her. She must have tried to maneuver a step that she's used her whole life; but she fell and couldn't get up. I picked her up, and tried to steady her but she just slide down again.  I notice her back paw was scraped and bruised and stained with dry blood.  

To look at her she seems fine.  But she isn't.  I wanted to let her pass away at home, if it came to that. But I can't allow this to continue. This will be one of the hardest decisions I've ever made.

Your encouragement is needed.
Thanks  

Answer
Sorry this response finds you so late in such a dyer situation.

Absolutely, Linda, it is time to put her to rest.  This is a decision nobody ever wants to have to make.  It's very hard.  You are likely to feel guilt.  This is normal.  And though the decision is difficult, and there will always be some doubt, what we must make most important is the comfort of our dear friends.

The death process can be unbelievably drawn out and painful.  We all like to think of our friends simply going to sleep and passing away peacefully.  The unfortunate fact is, this is extremely rare.  When you see your kitty declining so severely, it's definitely time to put her to sleep.  Otherwise, her suffering could go on for days, and I promise you from my own experience, the regret of waiting too long is far worse than the regret of having to make the decision to put them to sleep.  You will be doing the right thing to have her humanely euthanized now.

Remember, she lived a very long life with someone who loved her dearly and took great care of her.  And you did all you could to save her - it simply could not be done.  I will be wishing you strength and courage during this difficult time.