Our cat died and daughter is struggling

[PrawnCracker1]

Our 5 year old cat had to be put to sleep at the weekend after suddenly becoming unwell. It was a really distressing horrible experience and we all feel so sad. My 12 year old daughter in particular is really struggling with it, not wanting to go to school and sobbing inconsolably. She and the cat were very attached, cat only wanted to sleep on her, sit on her etc. We have another cat who is keeping us going, but how do I support my daughter? Any advice? It's her first experience of grief of any kind. Thanks in advance.

I am so sorry for your loss. My 16 year old cat was hit by a car 2 months ago and the feeling is just awful. Like your cat and your daughter, we were very attached. I am not really sure what to suggest as it is still so raw for you all and you need more time to try to come to terms with it. I try and remember all the good times we had, as all the happy memories make me smile. I talk about him every day with my family. I also got some photos of the (many!) I have on my phone printed as it is nice to see his face. I hope all of you are ok

That's really sad. Sorry for your loss. It's really difficult dealing with the loss of a pet. Children feel it just as much, if not more, because their little friend has gone forever. I think encouraging her to talk about DCat, what he/she meant to her, letting her know that you all feel sad, but will start to feel less grief as the weeks go by. Ask her what she'd like to do to commemorate DCat. Put a little photo beside her bed. Does she have a good friend at school who'll look out for her? Hope she feels OK soon