On the 15th of September (this past Sunday morning) I had to put my cat, Mowgli, down. 
He was sick and losing too much weight. He was 12 years old. I held him as he died.
I got him from the shelter when he was about 4. He had been there for almost 9 months.
No one wanted him.
I took Mowgli in. We bonded quickly. He was my writing buddy and best friend. I was his person. Everyone who met him always claimed we were well suited to each other.
He saw me through some rough times. I miss him.
Needless to say, I was (and still am to some extent) a mess.
Losing a beloved pet can feel like losing a family member, and the pain is very real.
The only way through the pain is forward.
Here are some thoughts and comforts that might help you through a difficult time:
1. Celebrate Their Life: Reflect on the joy your cat brought into your life. Think about the moments of happiness, the purrs, the playful times, and the comfort he provided. These memories are a testament to the love you shared.
2. Grief is Natural: Allow yourself to grieve. It's okay to feel sad, to cry, and to miss him. Grief is a process, and everyone experiences it differently. There's no right or wrong way to feel.
3. Healing Takes Time: Remember that healing isn't linear. There will be good days and bad days. Each day might bring a different emotion, and that's perfectly normal.
4. They Knew Love: Your cat knew love and comfort in his final moments because you were there. That's a profound act of love, ensuring he wasn't alone. It's one of the hardest things to do, but it's also one of the most compassionate.
5. Honor His Memory: Consider ways to honor your cat's memory. Maybe create a small memorial, plant a tree or a garden, or even volunteer or donate to an animal shelter or a cause related to feline health.
6. Talk About It: Share your feelings with friends or family who understand. Sometimes, just talking about your pet, the good times, and even the hard times, can be therapeutic. One caveat here. Be mindful of whom you choose to talk to. MANY people, after you tell them your loss, make the entire thing about THEM in some way, instead of sharing your grief and comforting you. It's repulsive, quite frankly. Avoid these people.
7. Self-Care: Take care of yourself. Grief can be physically and emotionally exhausting. Eat well, maybe take up a new hobby, or do something that brings you peace.
8. They Live On: In a way, your cat will always be with you. Not just in memories, but in the impact he had on your life. The love you gave and received doesn't disappear; it transforms.
9. Future Companions: When you're ready, another pet might not replace your cat, but they can bring new love and joy into your life. Each pet is unique, and they might help heal your heart in ways you don't expect.
10. Spiritual Comfort: If you're spiritually inclined, believe that your cat's spirit is at peace, perhaps watching over you, or in a better place where there's no pain or suffering.
Remember, it's okay to miss your furry friend deeply. Your love for him is a beautiful thing, and it's through this love that you'll find your way through grief.
You gave him a wonderful life, and in return, he gave you unconditional love.
That's a legacy worth cherishing.
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