Thank you all so much for thinking of Jessica.

She had her ultrasound today and it showed neither a heart problem nor cancer. Jessica has severe peritonitis and a lot of general inflammation. They were suspicious that there may be a leakage from the gall bladder. Any treatment would involve hospitalising her, administering a lot of antibiotic, testing the fluid in her abdomen, and taking it from there.

We have thought about it a lot, but in view of the fact that Jessica hates being handled and is at least 18, very possibly 19 or 20, we do not propose to put her through further testing. The way she is just now there is no guarantee that she would last until the results came back. I think it is time to accept that we have to let her go.

She has had several delicious small meals of poached salmon today and she seems reasonably comfortable. We have an appointment with the vet tomorrow afternoon.