Took a few days off to rest my heart. Despite all the efforts, we lost Magoo the other day in the early morning hours. The night before, I sat up all night with him on my chest, cuddling him, singing to him loving on him and he made it clear that the fevers have worn him out and he was ready to go.
Always so difficult to make the final decision, sign that white paper and stand by as the last breath is taken.
He was my shoulder buddy and I miss him still. No one has answers as to what this was, only that it must be genetic as the boys are now passed but the girls are strong, loving and thriving in their adopted homes.
I have learned that when there is a genetic defect in a litter- it will skirt the females and only attack the males because of the Y chromosones . The 6-7 month range is when it usually shows itself and Magoo just turned 7 months old.
Is it correct that with cats the Y chromosome is smaller, with not as much genetic material as an X chromosome?
This is the case in humans, and is the cause of multiple X-linked ailments, such as hemophilia. In females (XX chromosomes), only the carriers survive, because the double copy is lethal. The males (XY) who receive the gene on their single X chromosome have the disease.
If this is true in cats, it was best the the girls were all spayed so they cannot pass on whatever it is.
No kitty ever leaves my home unless they are neutered. And I am not that clear on the genetics of the cats as it is complicated but I believe based on what i have learned recently that you are right on the money.
So very sorry about Magoo. May your heart be comforted in knowing you showered him with love and did all you could.
we are so very sorry about Magoo. We’re sending you many many purrrrrrrrrsssssssss