My darling boy is booked in to be put to sleep

[Frosty66611]

My furry soul mate has been booked in next week to be put to sleep (he’s been poorly for a while now and I know it’s the kindest thing).
Do any of you have any tips on how I can basically not have a complete mental breakdown?! He’s so precious to me and I can’t bear the thought of him no longer being here. I don’t want him suffering but I just wish it wasn’t so hard. I suppose grief is the price we have to pay when we really love something though.

Plan how you want it to be. Abs what you want to do with him afterwards. Then you don't have to think st the time. Hand hold, it's horrible but my girl had a beautiful and peaceful end, cuddled in my arms.

You have my sympathies, the day we all dread is the day we say goodbye.

But, you are doing this for his welfare, not yours and that always helps to keep me strong. I find that being as normal and confident as possible helps the animal, the last thing they need is to have an owner weeping and wailing over them, or cuddling a cat that hates cuddles incessantly.
Once they've gone I'm usually a wreck, but then that's all part of the process and healing in its own way. I'd spend his last days doing things he enjoys if he's able to, a new catnip toy, favourite treats and food, making sure he's as comfortable as possible with easy to access food water and beds.

For me I find getting another as soon as possible helps, not to replace the lost one, but to fill the void and know that I am helping another rescue cat have a lovely life. I realise that this isn't right for everyone though, but it works for me.

I hope all goes well for you both.

Yes. To getting another one as soon as you feel able. Cheddar really helped move on from Maia. She's not replaced her, but helped to fill the huge gap she left. Still miss and love her though.