Poor cat is sick

We came back home last night after a movie and saw our cat, Satchel, trying to use the litter to little effect. So, we call the emergency vet and ask if we should take him in, to which of course they say "yes" (when have you ever known an emergency clinic that charges $200 per visit to say "You know what? That splinter / upset tummy / hairball can wait until morning")

So, an emergency rush to the vet ensues. He is checked out and luckily, he isn't blocked which would have been extremely bad. He does have a urinary tract infection which is no fun for anyone, and will put him on special food for the rest of his life. Now he is at home under "blockage alert" and MF is going home at lunch to keep him company and make sure he isn't taking a turn for the worse.

I just hate this. I love the fur-lings, and I feel like such a bad parent when one gets sick.

I need a hug.