Donate

Coping with the loss of a cat

It’s always difficult to say goodbye to your cat. Take a look at our guide on coping with grief.

Coping with the loss of a cat

It’s always difficult to say goodbye to your cat. Take a look at our guide on coping with grief.

Topics covered: 

Need support?

Contact our free and confidential grief support line.

Paws to Listen

Grief support 

Losing your beloved cat can be a really difficult time. A lot of people find the experience just as hard as losing a human family member. You might feel upset or even angry. This is completely normal. Everyone handles grief differently, and there’s no set process for grieving for your pet. 

Grieving for your cat is entirely normal, but we know how hard it can be to feel like you’re going through it alone. Sharing how you feel with someone who understands how important your cat is to you can bring you comfort and help you cope with painful emotions.  

You could talk to a friend, family member or contact our free and confidential Paws to Listen grief support service. Our trained Cats Protection volunteer listeners can provide both emotional support and practical information at this difficult time. 

Grief and loss
brown tabby-and-white cat lying on the floor

Children and grief  

Losing a pet is often the first time that a child becomes aware of death. You’re the best judge of how much information your children can handle about death and the loss of their pet.  

  • Be honest. It’s usually best to be honest with a child and explain the truth as clearly as you can. You may find that by being direct with them about your pet’s death, you may be able to address any fears and perceptions they have about death 
  • Avoid phrases like ‘put to sleep’. This can be confusing for young children. They might think their cat is resting and will wake up again later. It’s also best not to tell them your cat has gone to live elsewhere, as your child might think it’s their fault the cat has gone or might hope they return 
  • Encourage them to talk about their feelings. But don’t force them if they’re not ready or able to. Don’t be afraid to share your feelings too 
  • Let them say goodbye. Children may want time to say goodbye to their pet. Seeing the body may help them understand what has happened, if you feel this is appropriate for them 
  • Memorialise your pet. Marking the occasion with some kind of memorial, such as a burial, can be very therapeutic. Help them focus on the good memories they had with their cat and the special place they hold in their hearts 

Can cats feel grief? 

If you had two cats who got along well, you might be worried that your remaining cat will miss their friend. 

Your cat may: 

  • be confused 
  • look for their friend 
  • pace 
  • call for the other cat 
  • show signs of stress  

You should always take your cat to the vet if their behaviour changes. But if there’s no medical reason for the change, it may be that they miss your other cat. 

To help your cat: 

  • try sticking to their usual routine as much as possible. This can be difficult if you’re upset too, but it will help them feel more settled and happier 
  • spend a little more time with them if they’re missing the extra company 
  • or give them more space if they choose to hide away 
  • avoid getting them another cat for company. Cats are solitary animals, and while some are bonded pairs, they may not get on so well with a new addition to the home. It can be stressful for them, so it’s better if they stay as the only pet in the home. 

How to remember your cat 

There are many ways you can memorialise your cat. Here are a few options:  

  • post a memorial for your cat on the Cats Protection Memory Wall 
  • plant a tree or flowers in the garden or in a pot  
  • make a memory box containing items such as their toys and collar 
  • make a photobook or memory collage of pictures of your cat 
  • keep a framed photograph of your cat in a special corner of your home  
  • have a portrait made of your cat. Children may find it helpful to draw their cat or write stories about them  
  • write about your cat, or perhaps write a letter as a way of saying goodbye  
  • have a plaque or stone made with your cat’s name on it, perhaps with their dates of birth and death  
  • keep the ashes in an urn in a special place at home  
  • some vets will take a paw print for you after euthanasia, either with ink or in a cast, or a clipping of fur 
  • light a candle in memory of your cat
  • treasure your memories, remember the good times and the joy your cat brought you 

There’s no right way to remember your pet. You can do as much or as little as you like, whatever feels right to you and helps you grieve for your pet.

Getting another cat 

The decision to get another cat is entirely personal. You may find you want another one almost immediately or that you need time to come to terms with your loss. If your cat has had an infectious illness, your vet may recommend you wait a period of time before getting another cat in case the infection remains in your home.  

Cats, like humans, are all individuals. Although your relationship with a new cat can be just as rewarding, they will not be the same as your previous cat. This may take some time to get used to. Losing a beloved cat is incredibly hard. But when you’re ready, giving a loving home to a cat in need can bring comfort during this difficult time. 

If you do feel ready to welcome a new cat into your home, we can help you find your perfect match. 

Adopt a cat

Free guide

Download our free guide for more information about the end of your cat's life.

End of life grief and loss guide
long-haired grey cat sat on a chair
Find out more

Putting a cat down

If you are facing the difficult decision of having to put your cat down, then we have some advice on euthanasia that you might want to know.

10 minutes
Find out more

Tips for coping with the loss of a cat

How to manage the grief of losing a cat.

5 minutes
Find out more

How to support someone who is grieving a cat

How to help a loved on with the loss of their pet cat.

5 minutes
Find a Cat
Donate
About us