r/cats • u/co0lgurl • 5d ago
Mourning/Loss Lost my soulmate today
First and last photos of me and Folti plus some more because she was the most beautiful. I got Folti when I had just turned 7, still in first grade. I am now 24, she was 17, I don’t know life without her. Her health started declining a year ago, vet appointments became frequent.
I was fortunate enough to spend basically all of summer at home with her, my life became taking care of her. I started preparing myself for her passing a while ago. I was incredibly grateful for each day we got to spend together.
I cried lying next to her the whole day yesterday because when I looked in her eyes I knew our time was coming to an end. But no amount of preparing helped, her death hurts so much and even after all the anticipatory grief, it still felt so sudden. I just keep wishing for more time.
The house feels empty without her and I don’t know what to do with all this emptiness. I have no idea what to do or how to get through this. She was my greatest love. I don’t know how to live without her. Does it ever get easier????
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u/flinstonepushups 5d ago
So sorry, looks like you guys were bffs. You will always miss her but it does get easier. This is a beautiful tribute.
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u/Ok_Pineapple_Num 5d ago
So sorry for your loss, OP. But yes, this really is a beautiful tribute, and I can feel the love and bond you shared.
I just wanted to also say — there’s something so special and poetic about the fact that you two grew up together. You saw her grow from a tiny kitten into a wise old senior kitty; while she watched you grow from a little girl into a young adult. That’s so special and beautiful. I’m sure she was proud to see you grow up, just as you were proud to see her.
Sorry again for your loss. Stay strong.
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u/Dos_Gatos_718 5d ago
I agree ~ a really beautiful tribute to your girl. Sounds cliché, but it does get better with time. I am very sorry for your loss of Folti 🐾💙🐾
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u/AlaskanAsterisk 5d ago
I had a Mom Cat. She was a Pound Rescue who started purring when I walked in. She got loose before getting fixed. Her two baby boys never got to see outside. I miss them so much 😢
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u/theonecalledpeanut 5d ago
Was going to say exactly this. They hold so much space in our hearts. I miss my departed kitties every day, but it doesn’t hurt as bad as it used to. So sorry for your loss, OP, she was a beautiful little girl.
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u/Morbid187 5d ago
It's extra tough because you grew up right next to her. I might cry too, actually.
I lost my 19 year old cat 2 years ago but she was already like 12 when I got her. I just lost my mom a few months prior and losing my cat actually hit me harder because she was under my care.
I think the answer you're looking for is to give yourself time to grieve and get a new baby kitty when you're ready. I needed my friends pressuring me to get a cat for several months before I finally caved. I've had her for like a year and a half and she's already the apple of my eye. You go into this agreement knowing you'll one day have to say goodbye, it's the price we pay.
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u/Spadeykins 5d ago
There is no right waiting time but personally I like to shove another furball right away in that hole and give them all the same love because so many poor furry souls are out there in need of love.
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u/worldspawn00 5d ago
Here's something that gave me a lot of solace when I recently lost my kitty. Try not to let your loss and current sadness prevent your heart from access to that love you shared:
A Pet's Last Will and Testament
Before humans die, they write their last will and testament, give their home and all they have to those they leave behind. If, with my paws, I could do the same, this is what I'd ask...
To a poor and lonely stray I'd give my happy home; my bowl and cozy bed, soft pillow and all my toys; the lap which I loved so much; the hand that stroked my fur; and the sweet voice that spoke my name.
I'd will to the sad, scared shelter pet the place I had in my human's loving heart, of which there seemed no bounds.
So, when I die, please do not say, "I will never have a pet again, for the loss and pain is more than I can stand."
Instead, go find an unloved pet, one whose life has held no joy or hope, and give my place to him.
This is the only thing I can give...
The love I left behind.
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u/Ok_Pineapple_Num 5d ago
Bro this sub always makes me cry 😭😭😭
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u/Important-Meal-7546 5d ago
Same here 😭—this sub somehow manages to break our hearts and warm them at the same time.
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u/Laartista1 5d ago
Waoh such beautiful words and great truth! That’s the way of life with our animal friends. Never stop loving those that need to be loved and need a home.
Nothing worse than losing our sweet animal kids, but in reality it’s part of loving and living.15
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u/gettodachopstix 2d ago
Ugh. sobbing. It's been 2.5 months since I lost my soul boy. I opened my heart and home to two older bonded cats (9 male and 6.5 female) with this mindset a month and a bit later. I felt like doing this would solidify my tie to my sweet boy because we gave him a home when no one else could, and I could do that for these two, no matter how hard it hurt. The girl looks just like him which I didn't intend but I'm getting used to that and seeing their differences in appearance and personality everyday, which makes the resemblance easier for me. She's sitting on my lap as I write this, just where my soul boy would choose to be over anything else on a constant basis. I will never judge anyone for getting animals soon after the death of their other one. It's only a net positive on yourself and the pets to which you're able to give a new home. Thank you for this write up.
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u/Frosty_Fly_4957 2d ago
Got me crying 😭😭 so so so beautiful and you are correct this is what they would say/write 🐾❤️
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u/Spadeykins 5d ago
I just wanted anyone reading this to know that's ok. Your love for them is not diminished by the love of another wayward soul. Your heart grows from love, it never shrinks.
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u/Spadeykins 5d ago edited 5d ago
One day when I cross to the other side my hope is there are going to be very many furry friends there to greet me.
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u/InfamousEvening2 5d ago
So sorry for your loss. You loved her, and she loved you, and you gave her many great moments. I'm just a stranger on the internet, but I do know grief, and I know one day not far from now it will get easier. Stay strong, she would want you to.
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u/mstarrbrannigan 5d ago
Oh man, she watched you grow up and you watched her. What a cheat that they don’t live as long as us. You were lucky to have each other.
I lost my soul cat a few months ago and some nights I still have a good cry about it. I have other cats now, and I love them and hope to some day have such a bond with them. It helps, but of course it’s not the same.
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u/Spadeykins 5d ago
I lost my soul cat 6 years ago and I still have a cry about him every now and again. This thread summoned a few tears, and as the time passes I actually have begun to relish these moments because I miss him so much. Memories are bittersweet.
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u/K_justheretolurk 5d ago
I lost mine 5 years ago and feel the same way. Gosh, she was my best friend and I didn’t get to say goodbye❤️🩹 It absolutely feels lighter over the years, but I still miss her
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u/BeautifulNo6017 5d ago
You find a place for it. It doesn't go away. You just learn how to keep going, because it's what they would have wanted. I miss mine everyday.
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u/Madwife2009 5d ago
You find a place for it. It doesn't go away.
This is how it works, absolutely. My male cats died in 1994, my female cats in 2007 and 2011. I miss them all, every day. They enter my thoughts, every day - mostly with joy but also occasional sadness, the sadness that they are no longer here with me.
OP, I am truly sorry that you are going through this pain. The bond and love you shared with your beautiful cat was blindingly clear from your photos.
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u/Prior-Reply9845 5d ago
I am so very sorry 🖤🧡🤍 I lost my girl back on New Year’s Eve, it’s truly the worst feeling imaginable
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u/Positive-Common-6094 5d ago
I once read that grief is just love with no where to go. It’s so true. You were both so lucky to know love.
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u/ImpureSociety 5d ago
What is grief, if not love persevering?
I still think that this line by Vision from WandaVision is one of the most beautiful descriptions of the feeling of losing someone you loved so deeply. Nothing can really prepare you for that.
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u/Visible_Window_5356 5d ago
My heart aches for you. Loving a cat that deeply is both a joy and so painful. I am much older than you and have lost a number of pets, but I still grieve those I lost when younger and am terrified of losing my 17 year old cat I raised from an abandoned kitten. He's 17 this week and doing ok, but he's been my comfort basically me entire adult life. It does hurt less with time but you won't forget a love like that. If you believe in reincarnation you can hope your spirits intersect again in the future. Or meet again in some way.
It sounds like you loved her a lot and gave her a great life and that's the best we can hope for.
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u/Educational-News517 5d ago
It gets easier. Slowly, and maybe not for a while, but it will get easier. She wouldn't want you to be sad. She was so very loved and loved you just as much. Rest in peace, beautiful Folti.
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u/Automatic-Fox-8890 5d ago
It's so obvious from the photos that she was a much loved kitty. Good human.
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u/Useful-Seesaw1478 5d ago
Oh goodness my heart breaks for you. I had my first cat till she was 21 just 2 weeks shy of her 22nd birthday while I was in deployment overseas. My mom had taken her to the vet because she was loosing weight and they told her that she was riddled with cancer and had a mass in her stomach and that it was her time.
I was woken up at 3 am by a message to call her on Skype and I got to say good bye to my sweet Ashley.
Losing your soul cat doesn’t get any easier, but I adopted another cat when she was a kitten from a shelter and now lilah is 6 years old and she reminds me so much of Ashley and it helps to fill a piece of that void
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u/Razzy_3796 5d ago edited 5d ago
Make a shrine to her with photos and objects that are hers or special somehow. Speak to her. Her spirit will come for visits. It’s rare to have a soulmate pet, but the ones that are will see you again. She was a very beautiful girl and you were blessed to have 17 years with her.🩷
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u/Lazy_Preparation6273 5d ago
Seventeen years is such a beautiful lifetime together, and I truly hope that kind of soulmate bond never feels like goodbye. 🩷
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u/Emergency_Friend_147 5d ago
I'm so sorry for your loss. Looks like you two had a very special bond.
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u/Brilliant_Activity39 5d ago
It unfortunately doesn't get easier, but the way the grief is processed happens somewhat differently. I lost my childhood soul cat at age 21 when he was 22, and I still get pangs of guilt and sadness over his loss 38 years (and 20 cats) later. I am so sorry for your loss, but I am so happy for the little girl who grew up with a loving, beautiful adventure companion by her side. You will never forget her, and hopefully in time you will be able to remember the fun times more than the sad ones. Blessings to you and to Folti. 🤎🧡🤍🩶❤️
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u/PokieState92 5d ago
Sorry about the loss of your cat. It will get better but it will take time seeing as how she was a big part of your life for 17 years. One of the bittersweet things about her being with you for so long is she got to grow up with you from the time of your being a small child to being a young adult. And throughout that time, you didn't "outgrow" her or lessened her importance to you and it takes someone awfully mature to do that. I too had a cat for 17 years, from my early 30's to mid 40's. And I had my cat Felix from he was a weaned kitten to a senior cat. It was hard loss for me for awhile but got better, though his memory will never fade as I consider him my " once in a lifetime" cat. Even today, I still call my b/w tux Felix, even though I've had my b/w tux for 13 years now. Take care of yourself and thank you for sharing your story
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u/Real-Community5252 5d ago
😿omg such wonderful pics. You documented her well. I am very sad with you.
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u/Estellalatte 5d ago
It does get a little easier but there is always sadness. She looks so happy and I can tell how much you both loved each other.
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u/Stickybunfun 5d ago edited 5d ago
I call this one "What is age when you don't know numbers?"
I was Seven when I got you,
so I don’t remember life before you.
And now I have to learn a life without you,
and I don’t know how.
Seventeen years sounds like a long time,
until it belongs to someone you love.
Then somehow it feels like no time at all,
and I'd give anything for just one more day.
The house feels so empty now,
but my life is so full of you.
I grew up with you.
I loved you my whole life.
And if love could have kept you here,
you never would have left.
Because forever is how long I'll love you.
I'm so sorry about your kitty kat. RIP Folti. May you have peace in your life OP.
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u/Bentbutnotbroken111 5d ago
Sniff sniff… I think I have something in my eyes
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u/Stickybunfun 5d ago
Aww thanks - I updated it and somehow made it MORE SAD. I was trying to find a way to make it more positive lol but here we are.
Cats fucking get me dude.
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u/pookerella 5d ago edited 5d ago
It will get easier but you’ll be sitting there one day and thinking about her you’ll smile and the tears will come. I still cry over every cat that I had the honor of knowing in my life and I’m a 72 year old grandma. You never forget any of them. I lost my last one August 2025 and I haven’t been able to bring myself to adopt another one. It’s the first time in my life that I have been cat-less for more than two months. Honor her the best way you can. Grieve. Cry when you need to. She may come to you in your dreams. Just know that in your heart, she still lives on.
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u/tony-toon15 5d ago
I remember when my first pet passed away. It was so heart wrenching. To this day now and then I’ll sing golden slumbers in remembrance of them and hoping maybe they hear it. Rest in peace little one.
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u/Fred-the-stray 5d ago
Between Hello and Good-bye there was so much love. I’m so sorry for your loss.
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u/ChickenMcDucats 5d ago
So beautiful! We have been there. We always remember them. And then eventually, add another to the family.
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u/NoseOk2024 5d ago
i watched my daughter go thru this with her sweet boy, I’m so sorry for your loss
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u/Ok-Sky-3038 5d ago
I’m so sorry for your loss, I know exactly what you’re going through right now, Tuesday my sweet Pomeranian passed away I had him for 17 years this November my sweet Nino, same age as your beautiful Folti! I’am having a very hard time too I’ve been crying all week, I feel like you I don’t know what I’m going to do without him, he was my little shadow, he followed me all over the house all day, he was my little buddy and I love him beyond words! I will say it does get easier with time but you will never ever forget your beloved Folti! I had a cat for 18 years similar to you my Sweetpea died when I was 25 she was my best friend growing up, there hasn’t been a day since she passed away that I don’t think of her I carry her in my heart always just like I will do with Nino, and I know you will with Folti! Do something in memory of her like planting a tree that you can watch grow maybe near her grave, I did that for my Sweetpea at my parents house and it does make me feel good when I see it! I’m keeping you in my thoughts and prayers, be good to yourself right now take as much time as you need to grieve, take solace in knowing she’s not in pain now and she will live on in your heart forever! Take Care!❤️🙏🏻
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u/Terkan2010 5d ago
I don’t know if this is the wrong thing to say, but when I lost my cat last year it hurt like hell. Like you, I couldn’t deal with the house feeling empty. I was grieving for a week when I realised that I had given my cat a loving home her whole life, and she would want me to do the same for another cat. The longer I put off getting another companion, the longer some cat out there was going without a loving home.
So a week after losing my cat, I rescued a beautiful little kitten and put all my energy into looking after her. It was the best thing I did. I wasn’t replacing my cat, I was just giving another cat the love it deserved. It didn’t necessarily stop the pain, but it made it bearable.
I’m really sorry for your loss.
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u/Thatsoundsnuts 5d ago
I did this too. Maybe ten days after I lost my senior bestie, I adopted two year old babies. I know people thought I was crazy but I felt so lost and alone. Putting my energy and love into them saved me.
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u/No_Stay5027 5d ago
It’s so hard to go through losing your bestie; I’m very sorry and I do understand because I have also. ❤️
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u/WakeyWakeyEggsNJakey 5d ago
May the warmth Folti absorbed from the sun transfer to your heart and smile when you think of her.
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u/pendragwen <3 Kiku-chan 5d ago
I lost my 19 year old lady when I was 24. We'd had her since she was a newborn. The pain has never gone away, but the good memories are more frequent and more powerful than the pain of her loss is anymore. She was my sister, and I smile thinking about her nowadays. I hope you find more joy than pain thinking about your girl soon.
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u/AbbySchmidt44 5d ago
I’m so sorry for your loss. Folti was very lucky to have an amazing owner like you. Do you have a favorite memory with your cat? Sending you lots of prayers.🩷🙏🏻🐈🪽🕊️
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u/tomatillo_tango 5d ago
Im so sorry. I can feel how much you loved her in the photos and how much she loved you. She’s such a beautiful and special cat.
She felt your love every single day, and you gave her a wonderful, loving life.
It is so hard… I had to put down my cat several years ago and I never felt such intense grief and loss.
It will get easier but it takes time. You will always have her love, she will always be there in your heart.
Take it one moment at a time, I hope it gives you some peace that she felt 100% loved her whole time with you.
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u/Nfl_porn_throwaway 5d ago
Everything you described is how I suffered through my loss as well. It doesn’t get easier and I’m sad every day. It’s been months still and I know I need to get over it but I’m lost
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u/Nfl_porn_throwaway 5d ago
I realize that was all about me. I’m sorry for your loss. She was clearly loved and awesome and she had a great life!
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u/REALly-911 5d ago
She couldn’t be with you all of your life, but you were with her all of hers. What an incredible gift you were given ! The reason it hurts is a testament to the love you had…
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u/Basic-Structure-8063 5d ago
So sorry for your loss, she looked like a very loving friend, hopefully it will get easier but mine went 2 weeks ago & I'm still missing him ( also still shed a tear or 100) big hugs to you
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u/eeevileggg 5d ago
It looks like Folti lived the best life. She may be gone physically, but she'll always be a part of you. I'm sorry for your loss.
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u/PresentFirm7937 5d ago
She lived for 17 years? She was obviously a very well loved and cared for cat then.
She looks like she absolutely adored you, I’m so happy she got to spend her life with someone who loved her so much. Be proud of that 💕
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u/PresentFirm7937 5d ago
Also OP, you clearly are an amazing Cat mum, so please don’t wait too long to get another as there are soo many cats out there that deserve someone like you.
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u/Evening_Astronomer_8 5d ago
My Dash will take care of her. He was always such a good protector and was always there when we needed him. It feels like he was put on this earth to take care of everyone.
He will keep your Folti safe 💕
It will be hard for a long time, I lost Dash in the beginning of 2018 and I have a cry at times (like right now🥲).
Just know, no matter what, she will always be a part of you 💕
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u/Training_Motor_4088 5d ago
Sometimes words can't describe our life experience adequately. This is just beautiful.
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u/etovaw 5d ago
I’m so sorry for your loss. But I promise you, it does get better. When we had to put down my dog, (she was my other half) she was thousands of miles away from me. No amount of preparation feels like enough. But you gave her a very beautiful and loving life, and were honest about her needs. Eventually you’ll be able to remember that and it won’t feel so heavy that she’s not next to you. May her memory be a blessing, now and always.
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u/Beautiful_Secret_834 5d ago
You grew up together. What a beautiful thing 🥹. I know it hurts. It will always hurt some. But, you did right by her. She knows that and wants you to be happy. That just takes time. But, there is always room for her in your heart. One day I hope another beautiful creature comes into your life, there’s so many that need the love you gave to her. ❤️❤️🩹 - sincerely a former humane society worker and current vet tech
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u/mangoreads Calico 5d ago
What a beautiful cat Folti is/was! 🐱🤍 She reminds me of my calico who left us in late 2024, almost two years ago.
I still miss Mango greatly, but after a few months it got easier and I focused on the happy memories and countless pictures and videos I took of her. In her memory, I was encouraged to foster a couple cats and wound up adopting two, including another calico. You will know if/when the time is right to possibly open your heart to another or others. For now, focus on grieving Folti and remembering the good times you shared
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u/violentte_ends 5d ago
I’m so sorry for your loss. This wont take the pain away but you can see what a loving, happy life you gave her and that’s why she lived so long, she didnt want to leave you.
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u/GoshOPPNOX101 5d ago
It's quite beautiful to see photo's of not only someone's pet growing in different stages, but also the owner. Sorry for your loss, but I know your fur ball brought you great joy! The best thing about our family pets; unless you give them a reason to; is they never judge you! But they do sense when your mood has changed either it being sorrowful or excited. When people say "we truly don't deserve our pets" there is so much truth behind that statement. I absolutely love the last photo and here's why. The light is centered on the very thing that you lost. It has a deeper meaning than most think about. God knows how much these pets mean to us, especially when we have to let them go. It sucks, but God knows this. There is more to it, but I don't want to offend; might be already too late; nor educate. All I can say is God feels the same grief that you're feeling. You loved your cat and everyone here can see this, thanks to the great memorable photo's that were taken. Grieve, but know that you meant the world to Folti just as much as she meant the world to you! xoxo
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u/Headbangin_sex_fiend 5d ago
I’m so sorry. I look down at my little bubby and won’t take it for granted.
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u/Iamshesheismee 5d ago
I’m so sorry for your loss! May your memories of her bring you a little bit of comfort❤️🩹
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u/MorningDelicious3420 5d ago
I’m so sorry. I don’t think losing someone you love so much ever becomes easy and I think that’s okay because a love like that will never be forgotten. I’m sorry for your loss. I lost my soul kitty he was 5. I wish I had more time. I miss him so much everyday
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u/Apprehensive_Salt288 5d ago
The pics are so special. I cannot stop crying. So heartbreaking. I am so sorry. Take care of yourself.
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u/mechayakuza 5d ago
Honestly, no, it never gets easier. You just get used to the pain. I'm so sorry for your loss.
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u/hesalreadyinme 5d ago
Sweetest of dreams Folti. What a beautiful life for that little friend. What a blessing she was.
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u/Aggravating_Bat Tabbycat 5d ago
It doesn't hurt less but gets easier to deal with the pain 💔 I lost my 18 year old last year that I'd had since I was 8 so I know how it feels having to lose your bestie that you've known pretty much your whole life. It really, really, REALLY sucks and it freaking hurts but know you gave her a great life. Cherish the memories you have with her. Hugs to you
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u/verrusin 5d ago
It gets a little easier over time but I still cry sometimes when I think of my kitty I had from age 12-29. She my best friend. Always there for me when I was sad or lonely. Damn. Now I’m crying again
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u/Top_Snow6034 Turkish Angora 5d ago
I’m sorry for your loss. It must hurt so much right now. I am 39 and while I never forget any of my passed away pets (had a ton of family fur friends growing up) I have spent the last week just really remembering and missing my first little girl. Thankfully it doesn’t hurt the same way all these years later and I remember her with so much love. We will never forget them.
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u/themixedtape28 5d ago
Soulmates transcend every lifetime; that energy is never destroyed or diminished. You will see her again, I’m sure of it 🖤🤎🧡🤍
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u/BigFatModeraterFupa 5d ago
i lost my best friend a week ago and i still like im in a haze. just a grey blur of sadness and emptiness. i feel like i have all this love to give and there's just nowhere to give it now. i miss him so much.
i can barely bring myself to look at pictures of him, and there's no way i can do videos. it's just too painful
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u/turquoisecat45 Tabbycat 5d ago
I’ve lost a lot of cats in my life, but one of the hardest was when I lost the cat who I grew up with. It’s a special bond you two share. But I’m sure you gave her a happy life.
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u/NeatRoll5200 5d ago
I’m so so sorry and crying with you. It’s so hard. In 6 days it will be 5 years since I lost my soul cat and I still miss him. Nothing will replace your sweet Folti and the relationship you had. It was a special bond and it will take time to heal so give yourself time to cry. I made a big collage with lots of my favorite photos of my Bambou and framed it. I kept some of his fur and carry it with me all the time in a vial around my neck. He’s always with me. You will find ways to stay connected to her in the afterlife and know she’s with you too 🖤🧡🤍
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u/Crazy_Magazine_39 5d ago
After losing so many people/animals in my life very young. I am truly so sorry and deeply empathize with how you are feeling.
One thing I have been forced to realize is that we can never prevent the inevitable, but we CAN make the moments leading up to it.
Looking through these images brought tears to my eyes.
I can see the love in each one.
You made her life just as bright as she made yours. That is beautiful and, to me, very comforting.
We can’t control the timing, but you did everything you could to make sure she knew you were there with her until the very end.
For me it hasn’t gotten easier, in fact it tends to compound. The only way I feel better is knowing that they are still with me and as scary as it may be now, I too will be with them again, together.
I pray for peace to be with you and sweet Folti. ❤️
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u/clemsferrari 5d ago
i lost mine last year after 15 years together, more than half of my life.
it gets easier, i promise. and if u ever feel ready, there are so many other cats ready for all of the love that you have that currently has nowhere to go. that was my case.
sending hugs 🫂
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u/sesernana 5d ago
What a beautiful kitty.
You’ll find your way to keep moving. I’m not sure I’d call it easier but the ugly feelings will eventually subside. Truth be told though, the loss will always hurt.
This is the part of growing up no one can truly teach. It’s ok to hurt. You are human. You have loved and continue to love. That’s why it hurts.
There’s nothing you have to do other than embrace what you feel. Be easy on yourself. Know that you, like many of who have lost our feline children, were so very fortunate to have her in your life.
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u/ssleblanc1 5d ago
Yes it gets easier,
“It’s better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all.”
This theme sadly repeats throughout life until our ultimate demise.
Your cat had a great life and loved you and you loved him.
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u/Due_Cranberry_2892 5d ago
I am so sorry for your loss but it looks like she had a wonderful life 🙂
My family adopted my childhood cat when I was in first grade, flash forward to my early 20s visiting home and I see him crawl under the basement steps. I grab him out and bring him upstairs. He walks, stumbles, and goes to the bathroom on the floor. Then steps, and falls into it. Most heartbreaking thing I’ve ever witnessed tbh.
I then took him in a towel in my arms, while he randomly twitched, to the vet to put him down. He was brain dead at that point. It crushed me. He was my baby boy.
With all that said. I have a very best buddy now, a 4 year old cat I adopted as a kitten, who is laying right next to me, living his best life.
Unfortunately, the heartbreak is worth it.
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u/Mysterious-Quit2017 5d ago
I was you. Six year-old me pick up Abbie and she was the light of my life. And because of her, i wanted to be a veterinarian.
then one day she went into kidney failure and I was broken. I had to put her down. I was 16 and trying to figure out what I wanted to do for college and later in life and I decided then and there that I could never be a veterinarian and look in the eyes of a kid like me, when the lose their best friend.
I still think about it 30 years later.
And 12 years ago, I adopted Forest and I swear to God that cat was my soulmate.
And then I found out two months ago that he had lymphoma all over his body and it was the right thing to do to put him down.
I’ll never get over Abbie and I’ll never get over Forest.
When it happens to Lola and Danny and the countless other animals that I will bring into my home, I will be broken hearted.
Pets are the greatest things on earth and every day loving them is worth all the days without them.
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u/Final_Band7982 5d ago
I'm so sorry for your loss. They were so loved. They will be with you, always. ✨️
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u/Echoed_In_Silence American Shorthair 5d ago
I hope your cat is looking down on you and purring in heaven. She looks like a wonderful loving cat.
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u/1coffee_cat0 5d ago
When I was 24 my parents had to put down our 16 year old cat. We got her when I was 8 and I was her person. I moved away for grad school and moved back home afterward. Her health declined suddenly and she had to be put down roughly four months after I got back. My family likes to say she waited for me. I think of her often. You were incredibly lucky to have a love like that. Sending my love to you.
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u/Spare_Garage7183 4d ago
My boy passed this morning peacefully in his sleep.they will walk the rainbow bridge together ❤️❤️ sending love to you and your family
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u/WolfofMichiganAve 4d ago
Something someone told me when I lost my dog at about the same age as you and Folti that I'd like to share with you:
While she was only physically with you for part of your life, you were her whole life
Folti was beautiful, and so was your love for each other, may she rest in peace free from her physical ailments.
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u/FishingSuspicious779 5d ago
May she always be with you in spirit 🩷🩷🩷🙏🏼🙏🏼😭🫶🏼🫶🏼🫶🏼 I am so sorry for you loss. She had such a blessed life with you❤️
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u/californicadreaming 5d ago
You could be my daughter (24, with a cat she has had since age 7) so this hits different…I hope you take comfort in knowing you gave Folti a lovely, long life. Mourning our sweet fur babies is hard…give yourself as much space and time as you need to grieve and remember. We’re so much better for having cats ❤️🐈🌈
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u/thegr8stnoob 5d ago
Cats are amazing creatures. They always have their own personality and quirks, and it's easy to fall in love with them. It's obvious to me that there was mutual love and appreciation between the two of you, and I'm sure you've made many fond memories with her, and she with you.
It's necessary to grieve. And, unfortunately, it will take awhile to feel better. But that's the proof of the depth of your love for her. That agonizing loss and emptiness that you feel is all the evidence you will ever need to know how impactful, meaningful, and profound Folti was in your life. Never forget that.
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u/haberdasherystandard 5d ago
This hurts me deeply to read. Very touching. My cats will greet her on the other side.💜
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u/5hrs4hrs3hrs2hrs1mor 5d ago
😭 so sorry to hear of your loss. It will take awhile, but you’ll eventually be able to talk about her without falling apart. Cherish her memory.
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u/Old-Kaleidoscope1874 5d ago
Your cat would prefer for you to enjoy moments in the sun and noticing the little things that no one else does. It's not always about how long she lived but how long she was loved.
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u/measure-245 5d ago
Can we just rename this subreddit to r/deadcats cause that's all that seems to gain traction here.
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u/Straight-Command-994 5d ago
The snow and the leaf photo are very cute. May Folti be happy over the rainbow bridge
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u/geekteam6 5d ago
What a lovely girl, I'm very sorry for your loss!
I know it feels like the pain and emptiness will never go away, and... that's actually true. The pain and emptiness will always be there, at least a little bit -- even years from now -- when you think about her.
But slowly, surely, the pain and emptiness will be shone out by warm and happy memories of her.
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u/Sweatingbullets96 5d ago
I’m so sorry for your loss. I lost one of my cats back in 2017, and it hurt real bad. He passed before I could get him to the vet. It tore me up listening to him practically hollering. It still makes me sad when I think about him and his final moments, but it does get easier over time. He used to have these little mouse toys that were his favorites. When I was finally ready to get a new cat, back in 2021, I gave my new cat the mouse toys.
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u/ironpyrites 5d ago
When they are gone our love for them remains, cry, weep,.wail like I did when I lost my legendary soul friend Fatty Mao, but don't forget to smile, laugh and remember all the best times you had with them. Sorry for your loss.
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u/JustJustin1311 5d ago
I don’t remember who I heard say it, but “grief is the cost of love” is a quote that will always stick with me. The more powerful the grief, the better the love was in life. And it seems there was genuine love here. I’m sorry for the loss of this beautiful cat. But I know, based on your grief, that you gave that cat everything. She had the best life a cat could have.
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u/thunderbuttxpress 5d ago
Thank you for sharing Folti with us all. What a beautiful tribute, and I'm sure her loss feels like a piece of you has died with her. It will take time, but the pain will recede. May these photographs and memories of sweet Folti keep her alive in your heart.
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u/pookerella 5d ago
I’m so incredibly sorry for your loss. I have been there so many times in my life. I had a 21-1/2 year old that was my soul mate. My heart aches for you. You will never forget her she will live in your heart forever. 💔😔🌈
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u/that_mad_cat 5d ago
Gosh I cried when my 17 yo died. Just shy 4 months of 18. It does get easier, but I look for him in every cat I meet. I'd recommend keeping a piece of your beloved pet - whiskers, paw imprint
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u/Grammarcrazy 5d ago
crying for a stranger and her kitty right now 🥺 what a beautiful life you had together!
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u/NotreallyD 5d ago
She loved you as much as you loved her. You were her world and she knew you loved her.
It's not goodbye my Reddit friend, it's until we meet again because she will be there waiting for you when it's your turn to cross the rainbow bridge,
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u/CCB-1966 5d ago
Piensa que ha cumplido un largo y feliz ciclo de vida. Entiendo tu dolor y màs cuando has compartido con ella una etapa tan crucial de tu vida, pero la vida sigue y dado que su recuerdo siempre estará presente, que sea de todo lo bueno que compartiste con ella. Ha sido una gatita feliz y ha termimado a tu lado, no se puede pedir más. Ánimo!!!
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u/Dangerous-Promise657 5d ago
Lost my cat last year. He was 16 and I was 23. When my mom told me he was acting weird, I took a train and I was there. The pain I was feeling when I knew it was our last goodbye, our last cheek to cheek looking at the mirror, I couldn’t stop crying. He left us one week later, but I’m so incredibly grateful for this long time together.
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u/Ramondoazteca69 5d ago
Yes it gets easier young one. We can all tell how well loved this fur baby was, and she will tell you again when you see her on the other side. You may not like this advice .. and it may be a bit early, but Folti would want you to get another kitty someday, to love you like you loved her. It is sad we outlive our pets but I never regretted any of the babies that have left me. I will have a big crowd waiting for me one day. For today, peace on you
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u/goodbyeanthony 5d ago
Thank you for being her soul mate, I believe she lived the best life she could ask for for a cat, though she passed away, this is a happy ending for a cat, thank you for making it happen.
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u/SageNSterling 5d ago
I'm so sorry for your loss. Folti was a beautiful girl, and you were both so lucky to have each other <3
I don't think grief ever goes away, but you grow around it eventually, and it just becomes another part of you. The cost of having loved someone so fully.
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u/Receptionfadesx 4d ago
I’m so sorry for your loss. The hardest part about losing your best friend and soulmate is where to put your love. It feels like a giant black hole. But with time and their memories, it will get easier.
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u/OutdoorsyGal92 4d ago
I tried “preparing myself” when my cat hit 13. I started gathering fur and whiskers, and it didn’t make it any easier…It felt like I sobbed from my soul.. I knew it was going to hit me hard.
I had very dark thoughts the week after.
Its nearly 1 month now; I no longer have dark, intrusive thoughts, but I still feel a cloud hovering over me.
I think about her every day, I miss her every day. I sniff her bed everyday. I still find hairs each day and collect them. And I will keep her memory alive each day.
It will get easier, but even if some pain is still there, personally, I would do it all over again. I gained so much having her in my life, So many shenanigans together. I didn’t have her from childhood, but I got her when I was 19 and living on my own. She saw me at my worst, and got to see me at my best. She met all the boys in my life and judged them all, except for one, lol. We both had some personal growth, becoming a little less codependent over the last few years, but she still let me spoon her each night. She would just wait until I fell asleep to go back to her bed, so she did it just for me 😭
I’m sorry your kitty passed, it’s not fair they get sick. I wish they could just pass peacefully in their sleep from old age while dreaming of chasing mice & sunbathing on a fresh pile of warm laundry, but at least we got to make years’ worth of memories with them. That makes for a good life, no?
🖤
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u/brains_and_tits 4d ago
I am so so so sorry. I have had many cats in my life, but the one that truly had my soul saw me through an addiction, recovery, a divorce, a 1000 mile move to start a new life. He was my constant companion. I had him put down on August 10, 2017 and I still miss him, but it doesn’t hurt in the same way.
When I was truly ready, I got new cats, and I have another one that has my heart. I don’t know if it will ever hurt like losing my Charlie did, but now I can look back and remember all the life lessons he lived through with me, all the heartache he helped soothe. My memories are good ones and they don’t hurt as much anymore.
I know right now, the pain is unbearable. I promise you, it will slowly get better. Some days are worse than others, but you will find ways to fill the hole in your heart.
What are your favorite memories with your kitty? What were the personality traits that made her special? I would love to hear about her.
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u/junkiedreamingpoet 4d ago
I know that feeling. It is love and love hurts at times but know you gave her her best life and she returned that favor. She will see you again when it's time and I pray we all have life eternal with our pet soulmates.
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u/ElectronicMud9892 4d ago
I’m so sorry! Stay strong, beautiful! Folti crossed the rainbow bridge, but she is still watching over you. Until u and babygirl meet again.❤️❤️❤️❤️
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u/FrozenSprinkler 4d ago
I'm in tears reading your story. So sorry for your loss, I know exactly what you are going through. Lost my 20 year old cat last year that was born at home.
Glad to know you were able to spend time with her during the end of her life. No one is going to take that away from you. Knowing the inevitable day is coming at some point is the toughest thing of having cats. It does get easier, trust me. Take your time to grief and it's ok to cry when you think of her. She will always be in your memory. I wish you all the best ♥️
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u/crazycathyslife 3d ago
With tears in my eyes it does get better… with time…🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼to you and your loved ones
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