I have personal experience with both issues, but with a dog not a cat. My heart goes out to you. It hard to know what the right thing to do about your back. But I can say getting another cat would help you tremendously. You never let go of the love you had for the cat that walked with you for 17 years, but you learn that your heart is big enough to share with a new furever friend. My prayers are with you.
I’m usually disappointed with the ending when I really like the story, but this ending was perfect. It hit every point that needed to be tied up nicely. No wondering what happened to who. But seriously ch. 103 has to go. Don’t blemish something that’s enjoyable to read.