Puss, I'm so sorry to hear about your cat. But I do believe that cats realise when they are coming to the end of their natural life just through old age, and are just ready to rest and be loved, till the time comes. My Misty fell asleep 2 days short of her 24th birthday, curled up in her basket and didn't wake up, just like Ruthann's cat. I hope your cat is as fortunate, for his sake and for yours. My vet gave me the same advice as yours gave to you, to let nature take its natural course. I shall be thinking of you and puss over the next few days. Love and Hugs. Shutz.