Can I just talk about my cat? Feeling sad today.

[LikeASoulWithoutAMind]

I've asked advice here a few times over the last year about my lovely 16yo tabby and you've been so helpful. She was always so fit and healthy until about a year ago but she had various health problems - pancreatitis, arthritis, kidneys failing - since then.

She had been ever so quiet and off her food since Christmas and we got her onto meds for the arthritis and were discussing a treatment plan for the kidneys. Then just over 2 weeks ago, she suddenly deteriorated within the space of a few hours, was clearly very uncomfortable and her breathing was extremely laboured. Dh rushed her to the emergency vet at 10pm that night, who suspected pneumonia and gently suggested it was time to put her to sleep. I really wanted to be with her but I was at home with the children so dh stayed with her while the vet gave her the injection.

I know we did the right thing and I'm relieved she's not suffering any more - I have mainly been fine but just feel really sad today. I miss my lovely girl and the house feels so quiet without her. She'd been with dh and I for most of our married life and been a real constant during what's been a period of one change after another for us. Wish I'd said goodbye to her properly - when dh left with her I really thought the vet would be able to treat her.

Thanks for listening. She was such a beautiful cat.

It's completely normal to miss her. I had my first cat from when I was 3 years old up to 21. She was there for me to talk to through teenage tantrums and my companion for exam revision. But at the end she was so old, frail and ill that I made the decision to have her put to sleep. I held her and she passed peacefully in my arms. I knew that was kinder than having her struggle on (I'm teary writing this).

I still miss her 10 years on and I have a framed photo of her on my bedside table. I'll never forget her.

I have had my second cat for 3 months now and am really enjoying having a new feline friend.

Really sorry for your loss - as othes have said, out cats are family members and we grieve deeply for them - they are so loved.

I lost my 3 old boys over the space of a year, their ashes are in 3 wooden caskets the shape of sleeping cats, wherever I live, they get to stay in their favourite spot - by the fire.

I too couldn't stand the empty house - it felt as if it were waiting - and three little rescue cats came to live with me. They won't replace my lovely boys, but there is room in my heart for all of them, and I love these lot just as dearly.

OP, if you can't have a cat in your rental property, at some point you might want to think about sponsoring one in a rescue.

Not the same, of course, but it might give you the connection with a cat and you might even be able to visit.

Oh OP your post really resonates with me right now. I am at the horrible point where my sweet girl left us on Saturday. My DH brought her back from the vet so we could say a final goodbye and stroke her little face. She was gone at that point and I felt my heart would crack. I know I will have moments like you are experiencing. It sort of comes in waves doesn't it. I left a little enclosed candle on her grave last night and I could see it flickering from my bedroom window. I hated the thought of her being alone and in the dark down there..... stupid I know but I guess we do the things that help. I could also see a hedgehog sitting on her grave in the light. So sweet.

I'm sorry you are feeling low.....

Soul so sorry to hear of your loss. I have an elderly male cat with CKF and treasure every day he is with me. I will feel just like you. Our cats are just so precious to us aren't they? (hugs)