Moggies and More In Memory

Loss of a Companion

Even in multi-cat households, the loss of a member can be quite traumatic. Even if the cats were not the best of friends, the balance of power (hierarchy) will change. Cats know when there has been a loss.

Cats are very much in tune with human emotions. They recognize stress and grief in humans. Some cats will go through a personality change when a loss occurs. They will become more loving and sometimes will misbehave. They do this to divert the human's attention, to get them away from the pain.

First, know that your cat is aware of what has occurred. Sit down with the cat or cats and tell them that their friend has crossed over the bridge. Spend quiet time with them. Hold them and caress them. Enhance your bond with them, allow them to grieve. Pick up anything that had the scent of the cat that has departed. When you feel up to it, play with them. A flying toy is a great distraction for both humans and felines.

Leave a radio or television on when you leave the house. Leave a couple of toys with catnip scent when you leave. Rotate the toys; this helps avoid boredom. Keep an eye on the remaining pets. If any of them start to sulk, lose weight, or start to over-clean themselves, take them to the vet. Use a different carrier than the one you used for the departed pet.

Over-cleaning indicates nervousness; weight loss and sulking are great indicators of depression. You might consider adding a hammock with a window view or even cat TV, also known as an aquarium. If the depression persists, consider adding a new pet. A kitten is easily accepted if the introductions are done correctly. Keep the kitten in a separate room with the food, toys and litter box. Bring him/her out only in your presence. Spritz with water if a fight should start. Hissing and growling are normal reactions. It will take time and the new addition will not take the place of the friend who crossed over the bridge.

Our feline angels understand and feel pain. Allow them and yourself to grieve. When and if you allow another cat into your life, do it in the name of the kitty that you lost. This brings about healing in both human and feline. Give it time, love and understanding. Remember, they are not gone, they have left their fur bodies and will continue on their journey across the bridge. They will live forever in our memories and in our hearts. Rejoice in the memories...remember that there is only one thing more pure than the love of a cat, and that is the LOVE of GOD.

THE CANDLE IN MY HEART WILL BURN INDEFINITELY
FOR MY PRECIOUS LOVED ONES
I MISS THEM "SO" MUCH!

Lil'Blessing Babycakes Ashley Born:1997 Rest in Peace:2000	Quagga Santana of Lil'Blessing (FeLV foster cat-Rest in Peace)

Cheracat Zeus of Lil'Blessing Born:1995 Rest in Peace:2000	Lil'Blessing Chelsea Royale Born:1996 Rest in Peace:1997

"Maxxy Pad" Of Lil'Blessing Born:1996 Rest in Peace:2006	Cinnamon Candi Of Lil'Blessing Born:1987 Rest in Peace:2003

"Cheeta Babe" Of Lil'Blessing Born:1996 Rest in Peace:2006

" THE RAINBOW BRIDGE"

If It Should Be...

"Just this side of Heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge. When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food and water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable. All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing: they miss someone very special to them; who had to be left behind. They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. The bright eyes are intent; the eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to break away from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster. YOU have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart. Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together.......

"Author Unknown"

If it should be that I grow frail and weak,
And pain should keep me from my sleep,
then you must do what must be done
For this, the last battle, can't be won.

You will be sad, I understand,
Don't let the grief then stay your hand,
For this day more than all the rest
Your love and friendship stand the test.

We've had so many happy years,
What is to come can hold no fears.
You'd not want me to suffer so;
When the time comes, please let me go.

Take me where my needs they'll tend
And stay with my, if you can, to the end.
Hold me firm and speak to me
Until my eyes no longer see.

I know in time, you will see,
It is a kindness you do for me.
Although my tail its last was waved,
From pain and suffering I've been saved.

Don't grieve that it should be you,
Who must decide this thing to do,
We've been so close, we two, these years;
Don't let your heart hold any tears.

Smile, for we walked together for a little while.

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