Six Ways to Deal With the Loss of Your Cat

When a pet passes away it can be just as difficult as losing a loved one. Perhaps that pet was a childhood friend who pounced the mud puddles with us in hopes of catching frogs or maybe that special sweetie was simply a listening ear as we went through the challenges of a divorce or other difficult time in our lives. No matter what reason we loved our pet, one thing is certain, saying goodbye is one of the most difficult challenges we will ever face.

Whether you have recently lost your furry friend or you are still trying to ease the pain of pal departed long ago, "paws" for a moment to find our seven favorite ways to deal with the loss of a pet. You'll be glad you did . . .

Say a Few Words

One of the best ways to gain closure after a pet passes away is by saying a few words over their resting place. Say what you feel. Talk about what a great cat he was, how he always made you laugh when he got milk all over his whiskers, even sing a few songs if you like. If you are afraid of looking silly, do this when everyone else is away from home.

Whether it has been minutes or months since the passing of your pet, it is never too late to say goodbye . . . never.

Plant a Garden in Their Honor

Remembrance is a beautiful and sometimes difficult thing. Creating a garden in your pet's honor captures the beauty of your memories all while helping take your mind off the pain. One of the most relaxing hobbies on the planet, gardening is actually a recommendation that doctor's often give to their patients who suffer from high blood pressure of an overly stressed lifestyle.

When you begin, make your garden personal. Did your cat particularly like to pounce the neighbor's sunflowers? Plant a row of sunny yellows especially for her. Every time you see them you'll be reminded of the silly way she thought she could actually climb them!

Donate to Your Local Animal Shelter

What better way to ease the pain of your own suffering than to ease the suffering of animals in your community. Local shelters are always in need of donations whether they are of your time, newspapers for kennels, pet food or special treats that they would seldom receive otherwise.

Don't hold it in

Unfortunately many people find it difficult to grieve the loss of their pet. This is often because they fear that people will think they are "nutty". If you need to cry, let it out. Talk to your friends. Open up to your spouse. And if you don't have any one else you feel like you can talk to, talk to another pet or even the neighbor's Great Dane. It might sound silly, but animals are great sensors of emotion and while they may not understand your words, they will no doubt understand your grief.

Get Out

After the loss of a loved one we can almost feel guilty for going out and having a good time. While it may be difficult at first, it is essential to your wellbeing that you get out and have a little fun. Something hands on is perfect for a day out. Try a local pottery class where you can meet new people and keep your mind busy.
Before you know it, getting out and about will begin to feel more natural until ultimately, you will find yourself moving into a new, exciting time in your life carrying your happy memories of your pet along for the journey.

Move On

There comes a time when your pet smiles down from heaven saying "You've put your life on "paws" for long enough. I want you to move on." Whether it has been years or days since your pet passed, bringing a new pet into the family is a great way to find closure. While no one can take the place of your pet, another pet can come in and create a whole new friendship that will turn into true love in no time at all.

Don't feel guilty for moving on. After all, moving on doesn't mean leaving paw prints in the past, it simply means letting them travel along with you on your new journey, moving forward with joy and keeping those happy moments tucked quietly in the corners of your heart forever.