Caddilac
The last couple of days have been rough…pet-wise.
Yesterday evening, when we got out Caddilac, Rooster’s rat, I noticed that he seemed “off.” Normally he scampers around, chattering non-stop. Well, he just stayed put, putting little effort into moving. Rooster and I were concerned and spent the better part of the evening holding him. His breathing was fine, he just seemed over-tired. I stayed up with him about an hour later than my normal bedtime. At that time, he started roaming around, so I put him back in his cage. During the night, I could hear him making his usual night noises, so I thought he was fine.
We left him alone today because rats are nocturnal and sleep during the day. It’s not unusual for him to stay in his igloo until late evening.
This evening rolled around, and I decided to see if I could coax him out. He came to me immediately. Good sign, I thought.
I carried him over to the couch and put him down. He took two steps and sort of collapsed on his side.
Uh oh. Something was definitely wrong. Once again, he seemed lethargic. I knew something was definitely wrong. Rooster came out of the bedroom, and we took turns holding Caddilac. He was cold to the touch but still breathing, although heavily. We covered him with a hand towel. I hated the thought of him suffering and tears flowed. I wanted so desperately to be brave for Rooster, but I couldn’t contain my emotions.
Rooster was stoic. Every once in a while, Caddilac would get a burst of energy, and he would try to change positions. I think he was trying to help himself breathe. As the night wore on, I knew he wouldn’t make it until the morning. I planned on sitting up with him to the end.
His breathing grew more labored, and we tried to make him as comfortable as possible. My tears continued to flow, quicker now.
And then it was over. God answered my prayers that he would not have to suffer long. The tears were on both mine and Rooster’s cheeks. It’s only been a little over a month since we lost Chance, our other rat. At least this time we were able to provide comfort during those last moments. But we’re feeling the loss deeply.
I know that some people might question how we could love a rat, but he was a pet with personality. Until you’ve owned one, you probably wouldn’t understand. Rats are very affectionate animals. When they like you, they groom you by licking you. No, it’s not strange. It’s actually quite the compliment. Caddilac also had a ticklish spot. When we scratched a certain place on his side, he would roll over on his back and curl up. When Chance was alive, they would wrestle the nights away. You could hear them fighting sometimes, much like siblings. We used to let Caddilac run around Rooster’s room, and when you entered, he would hear you and come running as fast as he could to greet you. You could put him on your shoulder, and he would chatter in your ear. That memory alone is priceless.
Having rats as pets taught me that God has made every creature special. Each creature gives back as it is given. We gave much love to our littlest ones, and they gave us much joy in return.
We’ll miss you Caddilac. When we bury you tomorrow, I’ll cry, as I’m doing now. Thank you for the love you gave to me and my family. We’ll never forget you, our wee little fur baby.
Filed under: Pets | Tagged: Pets, rats | 2 Comments »
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