r/cats • u/KatH19_ • Apr 17 '23
My elderly cat died on the grave of her siblings Mourning/Loss
Not even sure how to go about this. I have nobody to tell but I had to share this somewhere. We found my sweet girl, 21 years old passed away peacefully asleep this morning above where our other 3 cats were buried over 6 years ago. I never thought it could bring me peace but the fact she died with them this morning with her brothers next to her really got me upset. I struggle to believe she knew they were there I don’t believe in a lot of superstition and stuff like that. But what are the chances. The garden is big and she chose to pass right there :(
Edit: had a couple messages about her so thought I’d add. She was actually a little stray that we found as a kitten when I was young. She’s called flea, not cause she’s got fleas..but named after the bassist from the chili peppers Rest in peace to my baby💜💜
Extra edit: all your comments have brought me to even more tears, I appreciate every single one
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u/KatH19_ Apr 17 '23
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u/KhunDavid Apr 17 '23
Beauty..
She knew. Please be at peace. She lived her best years with you and her four legged friends.
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u/Happy-Thinker Apr 17 '23
absolutely. when our BabyKatKai was due to pass, she saw all my and my mother's previous pets and my mother went with her after she had been hanging around the past five years and I asked her to look after Kai. when we took our 23 years old Kai,to the vet to be peacefully put to sleep she left before her heart stopped. ❤️
I cannot ever say for sure if I will see them all on the other side, but as I do see family and friends who pass over, I hope so. She stayed in spirit one more night and that's the last I've physically felt her and her kitten playmate since.
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u/Darkmagosan Apr 18 '23
You're a medium too, eh?
I completely understand where you're coming from. They know, and they will be waiting for us when we end, too. They usually move on from the borderlands between the living and the dead after a few days, I've found. They have to get their bearings before they lose touch with this world. When they do, the visions stop--at least for me. This has been my xp with both animals and humans that have passed on.
I'm sorry for OP. It's never easy to lose a family member. Kitty knew and wanted to be with her family when she passed. 21 is a PHENOMENAL age for a cat, equivalent to something like 105 years for a human.
She knows she's loved and you miss her. You did a wonderful job caring for her and now your little void has joined the greater Void we all must travel to eventually.
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u/ThisAintMyOnlyUN Apr 18 '23
I’m not a medium but after this last time I truly believe that there really is something special between humans and their pet friends.
I lost my old man dog rather suddenly so I didn’t get the chance to give a proper goodbye (stupid, dumb cancer) and I swear I felt his presence for another few days before he was gone.
Even my other dog would pop up suddenly and go over to Old Man Dog’s favorite spot. I’d like to believe the sweet boy was just waiting around to make sure I was ok like he always did over the years.
I hope I get to see him again.
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u/Darkmagosan Apr 18 '23
I believe you. I've had cats my whole life, and watched them all pass, too. Sometimes I SWEAR I'll see a rump disappear under the bed into r/thecatdimension, or see a striped head walking down the hall, but then there's nothing there. I'm not surprised at all if your dog is still watching over you. ;)
Everything I've seen and done tells me that our *real* existences are somewhere we can't even begin to imagine, let alone access or control. I think this is true for animals as well. If this sounds crazy, I simply bring up an MMO as an example. If you're playing Monster Hunter, for example, your character exists in that system and nowhere else. Should you, by some miracle we haven't heard of yet, somehow wind up in that world and tell your character about this one (our 'real' one), they'd think you insufferably insane. We're the avatars in some game. What it is, or what it leads to, I have no idea.
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u/littlemacaron Apr 18 '23
Are they able to come back to visit us once they have passed over? I want to feel my cat Mia, she lived to almost 21. I got her when she was 6 weeks old. She loved the best life and we had to make a hard decision at the end for her peace.
I didn’t come back to my hometown to take her to the vet with my mom and sister when it was her time to go, and I severely regret it. I regret it so much, it was so selfish of me not to make the drive. I hope she doesn’t resent me for it.
Well fuck now I’m crying. It’s just hard. I wish I could tell her I love her one more time. She always used to sleep right next to me
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u/Darkmagosan Apr 18 '23
Yeah, I understand. I think they do come back to visit us sometimes, but most people either don't recognize it or block it out. And I think she knows and understands about not being there. They know when it's time, and it doesn't matter if all their humans are there or not.
I had a cat when I was a baby. Her name was Cocoa and she had *serious* tortitude. She was 7 years older than I was, had already had a litter, and she used to sleep in my crib with me when I was a baby, and then on my bed once I graduated to one. She's been gone 40 years and sometimes I'd SWEAR she hopped on my bed--but there's nothing there. She's just one among many that have done the same.
YMMV
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u/aspoonfulofsammy11 Apr 17 '23
My void came into my life the same way. We found him as a tiny kitten, he fell into a window well during a snow storm and we’ve had him ever since. Sincere condolences for your loss of Flea. I hope she had a peaceful passing, and I firmly believe she knew her siblings were there. They smell and sense things better than us humans. ❤️🫂
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Apr 17 '23
RIP she lived a beautiful life and one of life's mysteries is this very instance and then the wonder of whether her kittens came to play with her and she left with her babies. Such a sweet Swan song.
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u/baristakitten Apr 17 '23
So beautiful. She knew. I'm glad she went peacefully surrounded by those she loved. Did you lay her to rest with the others? I bet she'd like that.
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u/Few_Talk_6558 Apr 17 '23
im crying she looks the same as my cat ive had for about a year, i cant even imagine what i would do without him, sending you love
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u/Pixel_Nerd92 Apr 17 '23
Goodbye, Flea! You're with your siblings again. Sorry for the loss, O.P. Losing any pet is hard, especially if you know you gave them such an amazing life.
Still, what a pretty girl. Nice memory I'm sure.
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u/microcosmographia Apr 17 '23
Godspeed Good Lady Flea. You are the best, and you are so loved.
(Kindly give my own dear departed lady a boop on the nose in Cat Paradise for me!)
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u/vampiredisaster Apr 17 '23
So sorry for your loss, OP. Right now she's warm and cuddling with her siblings again. :8097:
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u/Megafritz Apr 17 '23
21 years, she must have loved the cat-life that you created for her to hang on that long!
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u/KatH19_ Apr 17 '23
She was definitely old but last time she went to the vets they assumed she was more like 14. Such a young spirit happy cat :(
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u/weetwoo4 Apr 17 '23 edited Apr 18 '23
I’m not one to be superstitious either but I can’t help but think this was not a coincidence. Cats prefer to die in a place where they feel safe and comfortable. I think that was your babies taking care of each other. Take good care of yourself in their honour 💜
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u/GoJa_official Apr 17 '23
This whole thread is making me feel but the point about cats finding comfort places to die hit me kinda hard. My girl never left my side in her little bed back in December when her liver was failing. This is her at 19 last year
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u/NoCarbsOnSunday Apr 18 '23
She was beautiful <3
My little girl waited for me to come home from college, then passed in my arms, her sister went to sleep next to my sister and never woke up.
One of the most heartbreaking yet comforting things--to watch a loved one pass in your arms, but know that they chose that place because you made them feel safe
Gonna go hug my current cats now
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u/MaidScarion Apr 18 '23
My tiny little buddy spent her last three weeks in my bed, except for when she got up to use the litter box, which was also in my room. She even ate in bed 🖤
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u/FemcelStacy Apr 17 '23
thats such a great thing to say to someone grieving a loss.. take good care of yourself in their honor. wow. wish I had been told that.. i love it.
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u/bunk_debunk Apr 17 '23
We have a cat, a female Puerto Rican rescue who never quite got along with our male Maine Coon cat. When he was killed by an animal (I think racoons, others think coyote or even a fox), he was buried in the backyard by a cherry tree. There are a couple of stones indicating where. More than once, I have discovered Rica sitting on or near those stones, and there is a lot of room in the backyard.
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u/StealthFocus Apr 17 '23
We have a cat, a female Puerto Rican rescue who never quite got along with our male Maine Coon cat. When he was killed by an animal (I think racoons, others think coyote or even a fox), he was buried in the backyard by a cherry tree. There are a couple of stones indicating where. More than once, I have discovered Rica sitting on or near those stones, and there is a lot of room in the backyard.
🥺
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u/NikkiWestX2 Apr 17 '23
I too have a rescue from Puerto Rico💕 one of the best kitties I’ve had, my Moose says hi to your Rica
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u/Chavarlison Apr 17 '23
But do they have stones? It might be warm, those stones can keep heat for awhile. The bigger the better.
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u/ange7327 Apr 17 '23
I’m so sorry for your loss, sounds like she went peacefully exactly where she wanted to be.
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u/KatH19_ Apr 17 '23
Just wanted to say a massive thank you for all the comments. I never thought something like Reddit would help me grieve but I’ve felt so strong today and really appreciate every comment. I was not expecting this many responses today. I promise I have literally read every single one . Thank you ❤️
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u/pizzacatgirl Apr 17 '23
I had to put my 19 year old girl down yesterday... My thoughts are with you...
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u/Gsynakie817 Apr 17 '23
I hope your baby rests peacefully. I just know she knew her brothers would be there to see her through to the other side. She crossed the rainbow bridge with her family by her side.
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u/pinkcatlaker Tessi, Nina, Nikko, Alvin Apr 17 '23
She's just gorgeous. You gave her the best life and showed her lots of love, and she showed her love to you. I'm hugging my cat, currently curled up on my lap, a little tighter.
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u/plantsnotevolution Apr 17 '23
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u/ShoganAye Apr 17 '23
That's a sweet picture. Is it yours or the internet's?
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u/scootypuffpuff76 Apr 17 '23
She knew, animals are smart and can pick up vibes, living and those that past. Sounds like she went peacefully and on her terms, the way it should be.
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u/PromontoryRider95 Apr 17 '23
21 years is a long time to live for a cat, and they don't get to that point unless someone has been taking good care of them for a really long time. And for that, I thank you.
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u/tillwehavefaces Apr 17 '23
Animals know things that we don't really understand. Perhaps that was the last place she smelled her siblings, and she knew that was where you go at the end.
We recently put down our foster cat, and I swear my girls knew it was coming long before I did. I know they can probably pick up on stress hormones, but I think they also sense death as well, and accept it as a part of the process.
It sounds like she went peacefully in a way that suited her.
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u/cckkmw Apr 17 '23
Have strength OP! Cat def lived a life of happiness and she passed on where she is comfortable, by her siblings.
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u/Beachbitch129 Apr 17 '23
So sorry for your grief and pain, but you do have many years of happy memories which are priceless! (My Boo had to be put down when she was 20, that was 3 years ago. I now have an elderly cat I adopted, I think my place is to love old cats and give them their last, wonderful home) :7952:
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u/notinwantofawife Apr 17 '23
I have a black cat named Flea too! Also after Chili Peppers bassist! Her litter mates are Jimi, Meatloaf, Tupac, Pat and Shifty. All named after musicians.
Your Flea was really beautiful. I’m so glad you spent life together.
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u/KatH19_ Apr 17 '23
That’s so mad, I love that. We had a Dave (Dave grohl) and a Marley for bob marley. I love this
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u/notinwantofawife Apr 17 '23
I had a Dave Grohl too in the last litter (they were named for horror movie antagonists; Dave gets it for Studio 666)
Funny enough Flea is the smallest and Meatloaf the biggest and Shifty got an infection so he only has one eye. They were named on day 1 of life.
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u/KatH19_ Apr 17 '23
Our flea also was the smallest cat we ever had she was absolutely tiny. We had a swampy after the tree hugger 😂 he was huge
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u/SealLionGar Apr 17 '23
I’m sorry for your loss... your story stirred my emotions. The one thing I gotta say, is that I find it amazing that the cat lived to be 21 years old. That’s impressive.
I want to believe that she joined the other cats, that would be a nice way to think of it. Hoping that the comments we send, help you with her passing.
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u/KatH19_ Apr 17 '23
Thank you 🤍yeah it was pretty amazing. Not to mention she seemed completely healthy and normal up to her passing. We’ve had cats that lived to 14 but they all were on a steady downhill. But flea, I started thinking she was immortal. It’s so bittersweet the way she went and I’m so happy I never had to see my last childhood cat suffer. I’m happy the last cat I ever had from my childhood passed away with all the rest of them near her.
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u/StealthFocus Apr 17 '23
Reading all the comments and now bawling...
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u/KatH19_ Apr 17 '23
Tell me about it I’ve read every single one I haven’t closed this post since I posted it
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u/BastardToast Apr 17 '23
Me too. My black cat just got diagnosed with terminal cancer and I’m shattered. She only has a few weeks left.
I’m sorry for your loss, OP. Our kitties make little nests in our hearts. It’s so hard to see them leave.
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u/Lyre_Fenris Apr 17 '23
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, 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 each 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. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run 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....
She's there with her brothers waiting.
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u/Lessllama Apr 17 '23
I had a tripod cat and when she was put to sleep the vet said 'when you wake up again you'll have your leg back' and I loved that
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u/BastardToast Apr 17 '23
What a beautiful thing to say
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u/Lessllama Apr 17 '23
She's a fantastic vet. I lived right down the street so she did it at my home for no extra charge so my baby's last minutes didn't have to be stressful
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u/BastardToast Apr 17 '23
That is so awesome. I wish in-home euthanasia was the norm. Cats deserve all the comfort.
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u/TigerLily312 Apr 18 '23
That is really beautiful. We recently lost one of our cats to kidney disease at 8. She was blind, & I remember kissing her head with a wish that she had her sight back in the afterlife. The vet sat down on the floor with us & told her what a good girl she was & gave her a kiss. She passed in my partner's arms while we were surrounded by our two remaining cats & our corgi.
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u/Nabiryi Apr 17 '23
This is really beautiful, although I'm now trying not to cry in front of my boyfriend seemingly out of nowhere!
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u/Exact-Permission5319 Apr 17 '23
Not a coincidence. Animals are intelligent creatures, and there is a lot about life that we as humans don't understand.
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u/ExcuseStriking6158 Apr 17 '23
She knew what to do; you treated her right. I’m sorry for your loss. 💔
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u/RazzSheri Apr 17 '23
Felines have long been associated with deities, the afterlife and other realms and planes of existence... they're very spiritually linked creatures..
Her brothers brought her out to play with her and guide her home with them, where they will all spend time guiding you in life. <3 always with you.
When you think you see a cat in your home, out of the corner of your eye for a split second--- they're coming to say hello.
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u/goddessofthecats Apr 17 '23
This is so sad and sweet. What a good kitty. Cats hide or go somewhere they feel safe when they go to die - they know it’s coming and she felt safe and comforted there :(
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u/Speedy_Dragon46 Apr 17 '23
Cats have a really acute sense of smell. It could be when they died and were buried she could smell them in that area and chose to return there when it was her time. I would say that area brought her comfort in life so she was drawn there when it was her time.
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u/InWithEyesOpen Apr 17 '23
Sorry for your loss, OP. She lived a full life no doubt, and passed peacefully. She looks such a beautiful cat too. RIP pretty girl.
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u/Plasticites Apr 17 '23
It’s mind blowing how life can come full circle sometimes. Sorry to hear this, but sounds like she lived a great long life full of love
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u/CTTAMA Apr 17 '23
She lived a very long fulfilling life with you. I believe that she definitely wanted to pass with her brothers so that it’ll be easier to see them when she passes the rainbow bridge. Also, it’s cool that you named her flea, I love rhcp.
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u/KatH19_ Apr 17 '23
🤍🤍flea was such a fitting name too she was crazy with the zoomies, even yesterday.
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u/Bitter_Pineapple_882 Apr 17 '23
My cat liked to rest on the graves of my other cats. Now she is buried with them. They know.
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u/dingus_berry_jones Apr 17 '23
so sorry for your loss but that’s such a beautiful story. after my boy passed my other cat laid on his grave for days after. sending lots of love ❤️
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u/bumpyfarts Apr 17 '23
I cant help but think she had processed the fact that her siblings were buried there. Like she knew exactly where she wanted to spend her final moments. Whether she physically saw them laid to rest there or could tell from your process of grieving their loss. You are a wonderful soul and your kits are so lucky to have had your care and affection. RIP, sweet Flea. 💕❤️🩹💕
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u/Critical-Procedure24 Apr 17 '23
Looks like it was her way of saying, “Don’t worry Mom/Dad, I will be fine.” Take care of yourself.
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u/Dizzy-Bake9587 Apr 17 '23
Not long ago, a rocket scientist wanted to launch his deceased kitty into space as a testament to how great he believed this cat was in his life. I thought him a special kind of eccentric, a nutty-professor…until one by one, Romeo, Mimi, Maggie, and Mollie came into my life. I wonder if it’s too late in life for me to try to understand rocket science..?
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u/Chance_The_Producer1 Apr 17 '23
said goodbye to my Orange girl named Daphne two weeks ago after spending over 19 years of my 25 with her. The morning of she made a house wide tour of all her favorite spots from over the years one by one. Vents she hadn't sat infront of in years, | can't really speak to why they do what they do, but I'm glad Flea gave you something to think about. | hope you're doing alright with everything, it's not an easy hurt to overcome. In the meantime let yourself grieve and here's a picture of Daphne for the road
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u/iamapizza Apr 17 '23
It hurts to read this, can't explain why. I don't even have pets. Why am I here.
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u/gekogekogeko Apr 17 '23
Sounds rather beautiful. Also, I'm pretty sure at some point she smelled them there.
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u/KatH19_ Apr 17 '23
Potentially! However her memory was awful she’d get lost around the home and forget she’d eaten, constantly meowing when lost, her eyesight was brilliant but fully deaf. I’m not sure considering her age she’d remember anything from that long ago. But I’d love to think so
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u/Ok-Kaleidoscope5627 Apr 17 '23
For humans they often say that before death people will often remember things from long ago. The whole "your life flashes before your eyes" thing. There are tons of stories of people having a final moment of clarity before passing and I see no reason why cats couldn't experience something similar. Cats also have a sense for when their time is coming to an end and often seek out someplace quiet and comfortable for their last nap.
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u/Selaphiel_V Apr 17 '23
This is extremely sweet, though very sad :( When my cat Lassie died, we were searching for her an entire week, not knowing if she died or were she was, until a week later her mom was lying in a pile of leaves, the dead body of her precious daughter a metre away, also rolled into leaves as if she was sleeping..
I think cats have this connection quite often which is why I love them so very much. Bless you and I hope your kitty found the best of peace along with her siblings.
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u/Nabiryi Apr 17 '23
Sorry for your loss OP, it sounds like Flea had a wonderful life with you, and I'm sure she passed peacefully. I know it's heartbreaking losing your furry friend, sending all my love and I hope you feel better soon! 🩷
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u/SignificantAerie1729 Apr 17 '23
RIP! She lived a very long life full of love. I always like to remind people that all things have a spirit and we are all connected in someway! Her spirit called to her brothers when she knew it was time to be with them! I can't name a more peaceful way to go.
So sorry for your loss! ❤️
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u/OwningSince1986 Apr 17 '23
Many years ago we had a Yorkshire Terrier that used to live with us. Due to a separation, the Yorkie would live at my fathers girlfriends house for most of the time. Although she was getting older, the one night she finally came to visit, she passed away later that evening. It’s as if she was holding out to be with us one more day before finally saying goodbye.
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u/I-AM-Savannah Exotic Shorthair Apr 17 '23
My kittens giving each other a big hug. BIG HUG TO YOU!!
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u/_heisenberg__ Apr 17 '23
My two cats are 3, brother and sister, Apollo is my little black void (Artemis is the sister).
One of the things that I feel like NOBODY tells you when you adopt a pet is that you guaranteed you have your break when their time comes. I see a lot of these posts with cats passing away and if there's anything I've learned from them is that I don't know that I'll emotionally be ready.
OP I'm really truly sorry for your loss.
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u/KatH19_ Apr 17 '23
I’ve had 7 cats pass and I can tell you you’ll never be ready. It doesn’t feel real. She’s my last childhood cat and she’s gone :(
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u/Igotshiptodotoday Apr 17 '23
I think she knew that is where kitties in your home go for the great sleep and that was probably comforting for her. My cat of 19 years died on my son's first birthday and I was 5 months pregnant. I truly believe he knew I was pregnant again and was like "nah, I'm not doing this again. Too much noise."
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u/Snailspaced Apr 17 '23
You gave her her best life. She was loved - and loved in return - unequivocally. My thoughts are with you.
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u/Anax833 Apr 17 '23
Wow that is beautiful. I'm with you about believing in superstition and such but some times the universe give us these beautiful moments.
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u/baristakitten Apr 17 '23
I had to come back to this thread because it made me cry. We had a wonderful baby who left us too soon, and his playmate waited for him. She saw us lay him to rest and waited by his grave. She would look up at the tree they used to climb together. I lost him 20 years ago and I still hold on to love in my heart for him. He was my first friend. Cats are so intelligent and have so much love, especially for someone who took such good care of them, as you clearly did. I hope that knowing your kitty passed peacefully brings you some comfort. I think you'll see her again. I believe that cats know more than we do when it comes to the end.
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u/anonymousforever 🐱 Apr 18 '23
I was just a kitten when we first met,
I loved you from the start,
you picked me up and took me home,
and placed me in your heart.
Good times we had together,
we shared all life could throw,
but years passed all to quickly,
my time has come to go.
I know how much you miss me,
I know your heart is sore,
I see the tears that fall,
When I'm not waiting at the door.
You always did your best for me,
your love was plain to see,
for even though it broke your heart,
you saw my spirit set free.
So please be brave without me,
One day we'll meet once more.
For when it's time to cross that bridge,
I'll be waiting at the door.
And though it's my time,
Don't be sad for me,
For across the bridge waiting for me,
Is another pair I'll be glad to see,
Running, tumbing, and playing with the ones who await me,
Know I will do my kitty best to share that love you send with me.
So please be brave without me,
One day we'll meet once more.
For when it's time to cross that bridge,
We'll all be waiting at the door.
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u/peanutbutterand_ely Apr 18 '23
Oh they certainly know. I’m sure they can smell them or something. Rescued a stray kitten from a dumpster, and ever since he was somewhere around 5 weeks old he had my mean ole husky, Ozzie, by his side. He was a unsocialized and aggressive towards other animals but when he met Coconut his father instincts immediately kicked in. They were bestest friends and always with each other. Until 3 years later when Ozzie passed at 16 years old. We have a large open backyard but buried him to the side in our little wooded area so his grave would be undisturbed. Coco is 8 now and he sits on Ozzie’s grave nearly everyday. It’s like his comfort spot, he’ll sit there for hours. I hope I can find a picture to attach because There’s nothing physically special about that spot and if it weren’t for the wooden tombstone you wouldn’t know anything is there and it’d be just like the rest of the yard. He just lays there to be with his best friend.
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u/Psyko_sissy23 Apr 17 '23
Sorry for your loss. Looks like my void that just crossed the rainbow as well.
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u/angelacarpediem Apr 17 '23
This story touched me- thank you for sharing, and I’m sorry for your loss. I wonder sometimes if they can smell faint scents of lost pets.
My senior lost his twin almost 8 years ago and the way he sometimes gravitates towards stuff that was his makes me wonder.
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u/boredguy8888 Apr 17 '23
Had my neighbors 20 year old cat move on with me. He became my buddy, hanging out and wanting fed and pets. My neighbor, who is also my uncle, we bknded better over this cat. Flame was awesome, he just wanted to be near. The night he past was rough for us both, he was always very involved in anything I did. If I had fried chicken he demanded his share, which was fine. I miss him. He's buried under the tree he loved being under in the end. He was loved, he is missed, and good for you for treating Flea and the siblings so well.
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u/redheaded_elle_woods Apr 17 '23
I’m so sorry for your loss. My aunt’s cat passed away outside where his mother brought him as a kitten, 15 years prior. Cats are smart and loving creatures.
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u/ohiomensch Apr 17 '23
RIP sweet girl. I had a cat named Simon who wa best buds with Gabriel, who died in an accidental drowning. Simon used to go out and sit on Gabe’s Grave looking confused and wailing sadly. He eventually found friendship again but it was very sad.
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u/wolfkeeper Apr 17 '23
She may well have known where they were buried. Cats have an incredible sense of smell, and would probably have known where they were buried when they died.
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u/BigEvilDoer Apr 17 '23
Eyes Bright.
Claws Sharp.
Tail High.
Journey Bravely into the Mist with your Brothers, Brave Warrior.
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u/vlad259 Apr 17 '23
I’m very sorry for your loss. It’s really hard losing pets. 20 years is a long time, and she spent it all with you. Well done for being a great owner. Take care of yourself.
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u/blackcatzaregoodluck Apr 17 '23
This made me cry. I’m so sorry for your loss. I’m sure she had an amazing life. ❤️
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u/kt234 Apr 17 '23
Poor baby. She joined her siblings in heaven. They are warming the bed for you in your heavenly lodgings.
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u/imanpearl Apr 17 '23
She never even had to lose them. She had them her whole life, you cared for all of them, and she chose to die next to them. You did something beautiful for these cats. I bet they had beautiful lives, she died happy, where she chose to.
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u/Loose_Trust927 Apr 17 '23
So sorry for your loss My doggy passed away a few months ago im still devastated about it we had him since either before 2000 or a little after i use to call him my little pizza bagel thief lol rip to your angel and to everyone else who passed
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u/bunnymoxie Apr 17 '23
Animals form bonds with us and each other, and it never fails to warm my heart to read stories like this. Knowing that she was able to rest her head a final time in the presence of her furry family is beautiful. I’m so very sorry for your loss but know you will meet again. I truly believe this ❤️
Elephants grieve their lost family members, crows remember people who treated them poorly and will attack them, while bringing gifts to those they see as friends, some rabbits grieve the loss of a bonded friend so much they stop eating. Their emotional life is so much richer than we give them credit for.
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u/rivka555 Apr 17 '23
I choose to accept some of these mysteries of life, and let them help me feel better. Hours before we had to put down my boy(17) our kitten was licking his head and nuzzling him. That kitten never did that. Ride him like he was a gazelle? Yes, but somehow in that moment, he knew.
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u/cheresa98 Apr 17 '23
21 years - and she started as a stray! You are a good hooman and I hope you have more felines in your future because you will take good care of them and they will take good care of you.
Somehow, I'm thinking that the gravesite was chosen because you thought it would be a good spot for your cats to rest ... and so it was.
Hugs to you!
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u/SinfulDevo Apr 17 '23
A thought for you. The place where you buried her sibling probably carried their scent for a while. She likely visited that place often because of their scent and it became a special place for her. She might not have remembered why it was special, but that place probably always made her feel safe and at peace.
Regardless of why she passed there she obviously loved you, loved her siblings, and loved that spot. I’m sorry for your loss, but I’m glad that you rescued her and gave her a long, happy, and love filled life! ❤️❤️❤️
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u/sparklestruck raised by a cat Apr 17 '23
it may seem strange, but having a pet pass from old age is the greatest blessing to a pet owner. we would not want it any other way. Flea lived a long, happy life and had all the love she could have. she was healthy and needed nothing more than she had.
almost a year ago my little one succumbed to cancer at just 7, her older sister is now almost 14. my wish is for her to peacefully pass at an old age, just like Flea.
i know its probably strange to be relieved about death, but after watching my little Lucy slowly wither away, I would want nothing for a pet but the chance to pass peacefully and without pain.
you did everything right, OP. Flea is grateful for the life you gave her. death is only a part of life. let this be the beginning of something new!
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u/crullin Apr 17 '23
I don't usually post.. but this admission of emotion and grief really hit me tonight. I recently (1 years ago) had to put my cat of 21 years down. And I still deal with it every day.
I grew up with her as a kid; she was essentially my sibling or daughter or some weird human familial connection I made in my head. But she was my favorite part of growing up.
She was jumping on my back and yelling at me for food the day before she passed, no sign of anything. She evolved and grew even in her old age, and I'm forever grateful for the time I was given with her.
Your story strikes many cords with me, and I am so, so sorry for your loss. Nothing but time will help, and respect yourself for the commitment it was, even if it didn't feel like one.
I hope you continue to raise and foster whatever love you gave Flea.
Thank you for sharing your lovely story, and I hope the best.
RIP Flea. ❤️
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u/GiveSaucePlsx Apr 18 '23 edited Apr 18 '23
Cats are mythic beings, she knew exactly where she was.
Sorry for your loss, but so happy she lived so long
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u/frankelbankel Apr 18 '23
I'm like you, can't really believe that she would know they were buried there, but I don't really to much about trying to explain things like that these days. I just accept that it happened, that there was no better place for her to lie down, and it doesn't really matter if she knew, all that matters is that's where she chose to lay down, and it's beautiful and sad and poetic, and it's real. Maybe she did know.
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u/spipinto Apr 18 '23
She knew exactly what she was doing. Such a sweet passing for her. They do know affection and connections, they truly do. I know how your heart aches, but she was ready.
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u/WA_State_Buckeye Apr 18 '23
What a beautiful and lovely memory to have! I'm sorry for your loss, but this is just....beautiful.
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u/sb0918 Apr 18 '23
My remaining cat, Moose, sleeps next to a pillow that has the photo of his departed brothers, Nemo and Lincoln. I’m so sorry for your loss, truly. My oldest passed less than 2 months ago and even though we still have Moose, the house feels more empty. In the coming months I’m going to get a tiny smol kitten to help fill that void. So far I plan to call him Pickles. Pickles the Kitten.
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u/CommandoDino Apr 18 '23
I had a stray cat i took care of since she was born. I wanted to fully adopt her but she hated being inside my house, she would freak out. So We’d make her houses with some cotton inside and blankets covering it so she could survive during harsher weather. Sometimes she’d disappear somewhere and wouldn’t stay in her house. She got really sick in 2020 right before quarantine. She eventually disappeared for a few days. We left food out for her and it was still there after a few days. We finally checked her house and she had chosen that place to be where she wanted to sleep for the last time. That really made me feel super special and appreciated that my dear furry friend decided to pass away there. I miss her so much!! We buried her in a grave next to our other cats we had in the past. I’ll always cherish her forever ❤️
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u/king_gondor Apr 18 '23
We had a cat named panther (named by my mother). She had been poisoned by some plants and she was kept with the vet overnight. Late at night I got a call saying that she had passed away. My greatest regret is that in her last moments she was completely alone and not with us. It will be two years this year since she passed and it still brings me to tears every time I think about her death.
You are lucky OP. Your cat died next to her siblings.
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u/Lumpy-Dragonfruit387 Apr 17 '23
“There are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio, than are dreamt of in your philosophy”
Edit to attribute to Shakespeare’s Hamlet.
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u/Trash_with_sentience Apr 17 '23
Your baby looks so much like mine 😭
I'm really sorry about your loss, love. Been there, and I understand how much it hurts - but trust me, no matter how painful it is now, time truly heals. Your little one had a good life and a lovely owner, and rest assured, she will watch over you and be with you, even if she's no longer present physically.
Sending you my condolences and hugs, stay strong! :8097:
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u/space0watch Apr 17 '23
RIP! She and her siblings have joined all the other deceased cats in the constellation of Leo and they will always watch over you and everyone else who cared for them. My condolences.
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u/gatorgopher Apr 17 '23
She knew and I'm so sorry for your pain. You gave your beautiful girl a wonderful life. I've read so many of these and this is the first one that got me.
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u/FemcelStacy Apr 17 '23
aw this made me cry! I'm so sorry for your loss but what a beautiful thing though.
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u/hjb952 Apr 17 '23
I’m really now superstitious and very grounded in reality. But some stuff is real, and does happen. She knew where she was. ❤️
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u/MrX2150 Apr 17 '23
I believe her spirit knew and it led her to that spot. Thank you for giving her and her siblings love throughout their lives. Rest in love and power young Queen Flea 👑.
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u/yupuppy Apr 17 '23
Your sweet little lady had a wonderful life with you. Your post makes it so obvious that she was very cherished. I’m glad she found peace where she could smell her siblings (or she may have seen you go there sometimes?) Cats are such special companions, and I hope her memory brings you comfort and joy even when it may bring you some melancholy as well. <3
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u/Lessllama Apr 17 '23
This is beautiful. Sorry for your pain. When my almost 20 year old girl passed my mom told me the grief we feel is the price we have to pay for all the years of happiness they brought us. I hope that will comfort you like it did me
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u/Optimal_Roll_6764 Apr 17 '23
I'm so sorry for your loss. It sounds like she knew exactly where to drift off into her final rest.
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u/Educational-Milk3075 Apr 17 '23
I'm so sorry that she passed. Do believe though, that she chose that spot intentionally. When my brother's dog passed, his sister laid on his grave for 3 days, then she passed away.
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u/thesexyintrovert1 Apr 17 '23
I’m sorry for your loss! I hope you’re doing okay. My cat passed away in December and I still miss him everyday.
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u/BluePrint4Pugilist Apr 17 '23
im sorry for your loss. your cat knew and now they're all together again. im glad you found some peace
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u/Trick-Style-8889 Apr 17 '23
You must have been the best cat parent ever. What an amazing life kitty must have had! I am so sorry for your loss. The longer we have them, the harder it is to say goodbye. Hugs to you.
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u/rand0mbum Apr 17 '23
Damn. Sorry for your loss. In time I hope you’ll let another stray brighten up your home.
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u/chemical-imbalance- Apr 17 '23
So sorry for your loss! My sweet Molly took her final breath in my arms in 2018. It was heart-wrenching. Peace be with you.
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u/906darkroast Apr 17 '23
Ohh rip flea! Big fan of rhcp flea as well. 21 years, you gave her a great life! I lost my 16 yo buddy Frankie 2 weeks ago, still hurts but worth all the years of love and companionship he provided. Your little girl knew it was time and passed peacefully right where she wanted to be.
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Apr 17 '23
21 is a great age you must have treated her so well and the fact she went so peacefully you should take comfort in that . Sorry for your loss ❤️
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u/UnprofessionalCook Mod 🐈 Apr 18 '23
OP has written a thank you to all for the kind words ❤️ https://www.reddit.com/r/cats/comments/12pkc8x/comment/jgnc02e/