Last night tonight

[SwirlyShirly]

Tonight is our last night with my little BFF of nearly 18 years, Lola. We sat outside in the sunshine and watched the birds for a bit, sniffed some flowers, had a bit of a snuggle, and now she's pooped and just wants to rest. I'm beside myself. The vet is coming to the house tomorrow to put her to sleep. I know nearly 18 years is a pretty good innings but I'm not ready, even though I have to be. She's ready, she's been a wonderful emotional support pet, she was there on my wedding day, comforted me through every illness, 2 pregnancies, never his, spat, growled or bitten 2 boisterous boys. She's just the best girl I could have hoped for, and I'm not quite sure what I will do without her.

Her ending was the best you could ever do. She went surrounded by love with a full tummy. She had her favourite people and just went for a nap, cats love naps so it was nice for her. I promise it gets easier and years down the line you’ll tell stories about her funny and daft moments without that lump in your throat. You might feel something brush past you and think of her.

What a heartbreaking thing to go through, @SwirlyShirly, but you have done the kindest thing for your beautiful Lola. She will always hold a special place in your heart. Be kind to yourself while you adjust to life without her.

I can remember being 14 years old and feeling so upset that my beloved cat had to be put to sleep; I felt so guilty that I was more distressed at losing her than when a grandparent had died the previous year.

I recently read a beautiful novel by Sheila Jeffries called Solomon's Kitten. It looks like a children's book but is for anyone and I couldn't believe the emotions it evoked through the story of this amazing cat. It's obviously fiction but I would urge you to read it when you feel ready.

Sending you so much love OP, you gave her a great life and a peaceful, respectful passing, and she will be waiting for you in many years to come xx

So sorry OP. Lost my 23 year old a few years ago and still have a photo of her on my kitchen window sill (she looked like Lola). Now when I look at her I feel so much gratitude for the time we spent together. Big love to you.

Sleep tight beautiful Lola.

Look after yourself OP. It is never easy to say goodbye to our beloved companions.

Today I had to go to town for work, I did ok most of the day, couldn't really talk about it and teared up - but it's the longest I've gone without properly crying since Tuesday - that was until the crematorium phoned me on the train on the way home and I burst in to tears in a train packed full with school kids, they must have thought I was unhinged but there we are 😂 Anyway, I'm picking her ashes up tomorrow 💔

If there's anyone going through similar or it's in the foreseeable future for your pet, I can fully recommend the service I used for my girl, they've been so supportive, patient, gentle and understanding. I'm not saying it's cheap, but having her pass at home so peacefully was absolutely the right thing for her.

I lost my Salem at the end of September, he very probably had an intestinal lymphoma. Was so poorly. I absolutely feel for you
Xx

Poor Salem, my Lola had hyperthyroidism which eventually caused her heart to fail. It's so sad watching them decline knowing what will eventually come to pass.

Sending much love @SwirlyShirly, I’ve teared up reading your beautiful posts about your beautiful girl. You absolutely did the very best by her, and she was surrounded by nothing but love. Treat yourself very gently these next few days, and know that we are thinking of you.

I picked my girl up today. Amongst the tears was a real sense of peace that's she's come home. Love to you @SwirlyShirly

Thank you - and love and thanks to all of you for being so kind, supportive and understanding. I don't have many friends in real life, and I don't have anyone who understands what this week has been like, so I genuinely appreciate it x

So sorry Swirly. What a beautiful cat she was and how wonderful to hear of the love you shared ❤️

What a beauty. Sorry for your loss. You have beautiful photos to remember her