Complete Care for Your Aging Cat - Amy Shojai [66]
Pet cemeteries provide a “formal” burial arrangement. That may include the plot, casket, a gravestone or marker with inscription, or even a burial service. These cemeteries can be expensive, though. Cremation has become a popular choice particularly for urban pet owners. It’s typically less expensive than a cemetery. The pet’s ashes can be kept in container of your choice in your home, garden, or even scattered in a memorial ceremony. Ask your vet for a local referral for a pet cemetery or crematorium service.
Funeral ceremonies, memorials such as planting a tree, or making a charitable donation in memory of a beloved pet offer wonderful memorials for the departed cat. Some veterinarians will make a paw impression for you, or you may wish to keep a lock of fur. There are no wrong choices. “Little things like that really help an owner through the grieving process,” says Dr. Garrett. A formalized type of memorial can be particularly helpful to children. “We have to show children that bereavement is a loving process of remembrance,” says Dr. Sife.
After the death of a cat, some people want another cat right away while others may never be ready for another pet. Each person has a different timeframe. But cats seem to have their own timeframe and often our “next” feline love chooses us. It’s not uncommon for owners to say that the deceased cat “sent” the new one. If that happens—rejoice, and enjoy your new friend, not as a replacement but as a legacy to her memory. After all, other cats need you, and such unselfish love should not be wasted.
Death is a natural process. It will come despite our best efforts to delay the inevitable. But it does not have to be scary, or painful, or bad—dying can, in fact, be a beautiful, loving experience for both you and your cat. “We are the best memorials that we can create for our pets,” says Dr. Sife. “If we can make our lives better because of them, that is a wonderful tribute.”
Comfort Zone
Memorializing your cat can be a comfort to you and tribute to her life. Memorials can be expensive purchases, such as a grave marker, or something as simple as creating a scrapbook full of memories. There is no right or wrong way, and creative remembrances that are individual to your cat will mean the most.
Write a letter or poem to your cat. Tributes can be posted at Rainbow Bridge or other sites. She can even be honored in a “virtual” pet cemetery.
Donate money in your pet’s honor to a worthy animal organization.
If your friend is grieving, send a note of sympathy. Hallmark launched its Pet Love Greetings line in 1995 that includes sympathy cards, and other cards are also available. You could purchase a blank card with a cat illustration on the front and send a personal note.
Commission a portrait from an animal artist
Inscribe a headstone, grave marker, or other keepsake with your cat’s name. Pet memorial slate stepping stones, custom engraves slate and glassware for pet memorials, and photos of your special cat can be made into wall plaques.
Make a paw print impression. Kits are available that include molding clay that’s baked in the oven.
Caskets, boxes, urns and containers for cremation remains are another option. You may wish to save the pet’s tag, lock of fur, toy, or cremated ashes.
Golden Moments: Midgie’s Legacy
Five-year-old Midgie came to live with Wendy Braun of Albany, New York, ten years ago. The frightened black and white cat lost her owner and needed a new home. It took a little over a month to bring the beautiful cat out of her shell, and then Midgie claimed Wendy as her special person.
When chronic medical problems required Wendy to be hospitalized, Midgie refused to