Healthcare is confusing. And expensive. And scary. It’s a herculean task to wrap your head around what you need, what you’re insured for, and what to do if an emergency happens. But there’s a reason why we still do it – to avoid having to do them after something unfortunate happens. Insurance is essential for us, but it’s equally crucial for our furkids. Systems and software engineer Yi Ling, a lover of cuddles, takes us through her journey with her pawpal Ronin who isn’t a fan of said cuddling time. “She kicks us away when we cuddle her for too long,” said Yi Ling. “She gets away with it though because she’s so cute.”
Getting Through Together
The pair first met when Yi Ling adopted Ronin in a foster home. The chubby cat had fallen off a moving lorry during a rainy day but thankfully left unscathed. Now, after spending 2 whole years together thanks to the pandemic and working remotely, Yi Ling knows the ins and outs of her furkid’s personality. Her feisty personality, coupled with a weakness for feathers and food are but some of the main traits that stand out.
Once every morning and evening, Yi Ling feeds Ronin furosemide drops and Vetmedin pills to treat her heart failure. When the medication first started, the brazen cat disliked it so much she went as far as knocking over two full bottles worth of furosemide. “Now, she just drinks it up and even takes the pill herself,” said Yi Ling proudly.
Even though the vet has advised that Ronin refrain from strenuous activity, nothing can stop her from doing the zoomies at night and going absolutely ham on any bird toy in sight. “When she starts panting, that’s when we know it’s time to stop playing,” said Yi Ling. These days, Ronin has been speeding around less and likes to keep busy while still being on her belly.
Putting The Best Paw Forward
On the 7th of November last year, Yi Ling’s father noticed Ronin coughing badly and whining. When she arrived home to Ronin, the coughing and wheezing had not stopped and Yi Ling quickly rushed her to the Emergency Room. “It was a scary experience, the nurse told me that Ronin wasn’t looking good,” she recalled. “I signed a form consenting to CPR if necessary, and even though it was super expensive, I knew I had to sign it.”
Thankfully, CPR wasn’t needed. But even then, the bill amounted to close to three grand. Yi Ling laughed it off saying “I’ve never even spent this much on my own bills!” Following the medical scare, Ronin now goes for check-ups and medication that cost about $400 each time. The vet says that pets with cognitive heart failure cannot live long but it’s been 8 months since her diagnosis and Ronin’s condition is improving.
“We are just hoping that she stays happy and lives as long as possible!”
Ensuring And Enduring
Even though it seems hard for Ronin to get insured now as she isn’t microchipped if there’s a suitable plan, Yi Ling would get one. “Every paw-rent should get a plan with good coverage.” Not only does pet insurance secure the well-being of your pet if something were to happen, but it also provides peace of mind for owners at a time you already have so much to worry about.
“Pets can’t speak like humans so I know how aggravating it can get for the owner when they see their pet suffering. At the A&E, there were a few owners bawling and it was so scary,” said Yi Ling. “At these moments, having to worry about money is the last thing you want.”
*Bonus Question*
Say Ronin could speak hooman for 7 days. What would you say to her for that week?
“I would ask her how she really is, how effective the medicine is, and if she was in pain. Would she rather us save her or let her go? I would ask her what’s her favourite food and make her agree to cuddle with me more to exchange for her favourite food haha. Also, whether she likes me or my husband more!”
* This blog is designed to be a community where pet owners can learn and share. The views expressed in each post are the opinion of the author and not necessarily endorsed by Pawjourr. Always consult your veterinarian for professional advice.
