I lost a cherished pet today

[Grizzled Bear]

This creature had been part of my life for almost 17 years. He wasn't exactly a normal cat. He was built like a medium sized dog. When he was healthy he weighed over 20 pounds. Today he weighed just over 10 pounds and was skin and bone.

He had been sick on and off for about a year. Antibiotics helped but he never completely recovered. This morning he really looked bad. We called the vet and took him in. I already expected the worst. The vet said his temp was 92 F (normal is about 101). I expected him to have a fever because was looking for cool places to lie down.

It was so hard but I asked the Vet to put him to sleep. The Dr reassured me that this was the best choice, with treatments he might have another week or two and either be in pain or doped up. I said to do it and dear God it hurts. My wife and I held him and stroked his fur until long after he was gone. His cheek rested on my hand the entire time. At about 12:45 this afternoon he passed away.

Through tears, Mrs Bear said she never thought the loss of a cat would be so painful. When she first "met" him they had trouble getting along. Before getting to know her; he never liked anybody but me. After some time they warmed up to each other. Today she's heartbroken. To be honest, so am I.

Whenever she would sing he would run up to her, sit at attention and listen to her. She asked if animals go to heaven and if we will see him again. The best I could do was a verse from Ecclesiates 3:21.

He traveled with me from the US to Europe and back. Whether I was in the livingroom watching a DVD, studying at the kitchen table or FReeping; he was always right next to me. I keep expecting to turn and see him in his usual places.

Thanks for listening.

[Lady Jag]

My deepest sympathies at the loss of your beloved cat.

I'm getting on in years
My coat is turning grey
My eyes have lost their luster,
My hearing...just OK.
I spend my whole day dreaming
Of conquests of my past
Lying near a sunny window,
Waiting for its warm repast.
"I remember our first visit"
I was coming to you free,
Hoping you would take me in
And keep my company.
I wasn't young or handsome.
Two years I'd roamed the streets.
There were scars on my face,
I hobbled on my feet.
I could see your disappointment...
As I left my prison cage,
Oh, I hoped you would accept me
And look beyond my age.
You took me out of pity,
I accepted, without shame.
Then you grew to love me.
"I admit the same."
I have shared with you your laughter,
You have wet my coat with tears.
We've come to know each other,
Throughout these many years
Just ONE more hug this morning...
Before you drive away...
And know I'll think about you
Throughout your busy day!
The time we've left together is a treasured time at that,
My heart is yours forever, I Promise....
This old cat.
--KC (sievert) Bingamon--
"For Misty-Dawn 1998"

[Eaker]

[Tabi Katz]

So sorry. I lost 2 kitties within a year, the second one only a baby. I certainly hope there is an afterlife, and that our pets will be a part of it. If you’re anything like me you’re probably inconsolable right now, but try to take comfort knowing he had a good 17 years here and was deeply loved.

[Nea Wood]

So sorry about the loss of your little fur baby. Condolences to you and to Mrs. Grizzled Bear.

[Grizzled Bear]

Thank you everyone for your kind words.

And a special thanks to Eaker for posting the pictures on #58 and #62.

Maybe it’s selfish or stupid but I want everyone to see what a great cat he was.

[moonpie57]

Some people that claim to have seen heaven say that there are animals there. That sounds like something that my loving, wonderful, Heavenly Father would do.

[Ditter]

Beautiful cat! RIP kitty.

Glad you are back Eaker.

[truthkeeper]

To paraphrase E.B. White...that’s “some cat!” :-)

[F.J. Mitchell]

Condolences to all members of this cherished pet’s family.

I personally can’t envision any place being very heavenly without pets.

[HairOfTheDog]

He was beautiful. I am so sorry for your loss.

Ping!

Other articles with keyword "DOGGIEPING" since 12/29/04

[Eaker]

Thanks Ditter!

[Hazcat]

I believe in the Rainbow Bridge. As a Christian I know God is kind and loving so I am CERTAIN that Heaven must include our beloved animal companions.

They’re waiting for us like they always have and we will all be filled with joy at the reunion.

[derllak]

What a ham! How can you not fall in love with that.....:)

[Grizzled Bear]

Did you see the one in post #62? Mrs Bear loves that picture.

[dandelion]

A big hug for you and your wife - you are not alone in your grief. There are so many here who have lost beloved pets, and we all understand...

I thank God for each and every one of my darling animals, and I know they await me; after all, the Bible says that the lion shall lie down with the lamb - and a little child shall lead them.

[Peace4EarthNow]

Grizzled Bear, I am so incredibly sorry to hear about the loss of your beloved pet. They truly are SO special, and they do become a part of the family.

I understand the part about looking around for them, and expecting to see them there. That’s what I kept doing after I lost my dog last year. The pain will ease, and the memories will stay.

I was going to direct you to Ecclesiastes 3: 18-22, but it looks like you already found part of it. I truly have faith that the animals will join us in Heaven. I believe the Bible is written for those who are aware of sin, and of the need for a Savior in Jesus. Young children & animals, who know no sin, have already been saved (I believe).

God Bless...

[derllak]

I love that pic too. His wonderful personality really shines through. Quite the silly kitty!

[glasseye]

Sorry for your loss.

[SnarlinCubBear]

He’s very unique. What a treasure he was. Thanks for the ping back.

[A knight without armor]

I am very sorry. Freepers here have posted such nice passages on this thread. We are so touched by our pets. You just have to feel it to understand. Your kitty will be waiting for you someday.