Well, Peebles definitely had a breathing fit after a rather small amount of exercise tonight. We are gonna try to set up a vet appointment for tomorrow or Wednesday.

After reassurance from Peg and a leading Cat Friend, I am convinced she is not at Death's Door and, since we really aren't equipped for overnight cattage, somehow guiltily and fretfully sent her outside after telling her about 50 times I love her and I'm gonna do what I can for her and if the worst happens I'll never forget her.

I am probably overreacting. I am definitely having anxiety issues well above and beyond seeing my favorite cat wheeze and pant. She was OK within a few minutes and seems comfortable except for an occasional little sneeze or huff when she's not actively been exercising. I'm really hoping it's either a mild respiratory infection or a little touch of asthma that won't substantially harm her quality or length of life.

I'm braced. I've been bracing since the day I first met these cats and joked, "You guys are gonna break my heart someday, I already know it." It's awfully soon for another vet visit after taking CJ in, and that's a MASSIVE anxiety trigger right now because that's what I've already been ruminating about for weeks. I am amazed I am handling it as well as "OK, guess I'm going to bed at 7:30 and trying not to think about it." I'm not in tears or nothin'.

This will probably be funny, that I'm this freaked out, in a year or two. Assuming I'm sitting there petting Peebs. Otherwise, not so much.

Listen, um, in this situation, having a bunch of well-wishes in my feed is only gonna stress me out more, so if people could keep it to practical and reassuring cat health advice, if you have any, I'd appreciate it. I know y'all care about her. <3 We may also end up passing the hat if this ends up being expensive. Thanks, everybody.