I can't even begin to describe the heartache I'm feeling after losing my precious Missy last Tuesday. My husband and I never had children, so we poured all our love on our two precious cats. The only thing that consoles me everytime I feel that void she left is knowing she'll never have to experience pain and that my husband now has a piece of me with him in heaven. I know someday, we'll all be together. I stayed with Missy at the clinic till her last breath and I'm glad I did. For now, I have to make sure my other cat doesn't get depressed. Do you think that animals go through the same grief that we experience? Missy, I love you so much and I miss you so terribly! Love, your Mommy

Dear Sunflower, my deepest sympathies go to you and your other cat. I too had two cats which were raised together for thirteen years. My personal experience taught me that my surviving cat was in deep grief as much if not more than I was but he hid his grief and it made him very sick. It wasn't obvious that he was grieving during the first twelve days, he just acted quiet but still came to me for hugs and all the usual. Friends thought he was a heartless cat not to miss his buddy, I did not judge him but thought it was odd. However one night he went into a diabetic fit like I could never have imagined. He was really affected and I just didn't get it because I was still reeling over the first cat having died rather unexpectedly. If I could only start over again, I would have given that poor surviving cat all my time and attention instead of retreating in my own shell to deal with the grief of losing the first cat. I would have taken him in my arms and would have rocked him most of the time until he felt like life would go on still for him, despite the loss of his only animal companion in a house of humans. Take care of your other one and he will take care of you. Bless you all, this is a very sad time, together you will make it back to 'normal' if ever that word was ever possible. Hugs to you, may you have the courage and all the love you need.

moved this post to the proper forum, thanks.

Hi Sunflower, I'm so sorry for your loss of Missy.
Just like Toonie said, they go through the grieving process, just like people.
My Bue has been gone almost 2 yrs, and If I say his name, they still look for him.

I noticed that they all have some sort of behavior they learned from him, he was the
most senior in the household.

Your surviving kitty will help you get through this, just as mine did.
Do you have any pics of Missy? It really helped me when I posted pics of Bue.

It's painful, and hard, but you will get through this.

Take Care Sunflower

Hello Sunflower

Your post reminded me of my own Missy, who I lost 6 years ago.

My Missy was with me 12 years before she died of liver cancer.

I have never had kids either, and am single so my pets are everything to me.

Yes, pets go through grief too, but they seem to process it more the way children do and live in the moment. Your remaining cat will help you get through. My pets have been all that have held me together in a period where I have pretty much lost everything.

Your other cat will give you the strength you need. What a special mommy you are to care so much.

And Missy knows that and she will be there for you one day too.

take care

Jan.

I appreciate all who've sent words or comfort. It helps to hear from pet owners who've gone through the grief. The response I get from pet owners and people, who are not pet owners are so much different. Pet owners, know the depth of the pain we are feeling. My other cat, Sammy has been acting differently since then. He meows more now, while waiting for his food or while waiting to be brushed. I wish I could understand what he's trying to say. I just keep reassuring him that Missy's in a better place. But, he's been a source of strength for me. And he's always by my side wherever I am. He would stare at me with that sad look. I guess, I'm more sensitive to how he's doing. I was trying to post one of Missy's pics during her last few days, but I think I'm doing something wrong. But, I'll try to figure it out or ask the Administrator. She was a gray tabby and had such a charming, but aristocratic looking face. I've seen the likes of her in many different magazines and popcorn cans. I took a video of her, too, the night before she had to go and it just broke my heart again. Maybe if I watch it often, it will help me get through the pain.

I just wanted you to know that when I read your e-mails, I also felt your heartaches and the love you have for your beloved pets. Thank you so much for all your encouring words.

So Sorry For Your Loss. It Is Very Heartbreaking To Lose Your Baby. I Lost My Shadow A Few Weeks Ago & Just Dont Know What Im Going To Do W/O Her. Although I Know Shes Gone, Im Just Happy With The Years I Did Have With Her. You & Missy Are In My Prayers.

I know how you feel, Sunflower. When Nicole died, my greatest consolation was that she'd never have to go through any more suffering. My sincere sympathy for your loss of Missy.

dearest Sunflower, i'm so terribly sorry for your loss. please know that you and your precious angel fur child Missy are in my thoughts and prayers as i wing many loving angels to soothe and guide you through this gosh awful difficult time of grief, sorrow and loneliness.

there is a wealth of information in the "Pet Loss Support Resources and Articles" area here at LS.
Please go there and read an article or two when you're feeling up to it. do take all the time you need. the articles will still be there.

i'm going to give you direct links to five posted articles from the "Pet Loss Support Resources and Articles" area which i hope and pray will help you just a little and bring you some comfort but do go to that forum yourself to find out if there's something which may be more specific for your needs. again, take your time. please click on the direct links below ...

Your Fur Child Loss Devastation - You Are Not Going Insane - Emotions and Behavior Caused By Pet Loss

'Light A Candle' Online - It Is Free Please Read And I Send Love To All

A Place For Us - Why They're Not Really "Gone" - by Terri Onorato
... then make sure to click where it says "A Place For Us" in the above post by Furkidlets' Mom.

"What Does Time Have To Do With Grief?"
... above is FROM THE DIRECTOR OF GRIEF WATCH By Pat Schwiebert, R.N.

"Grieving The Loss Of A Pet" - Article by Julie Alexrod

winging more loving angels to you and your angel fur baby Missy!!!

many comforting hugs!!!

always,
dottie xoxoxox