Suffering the loss of a beloved cat is a painful experience. No matter how old they were or how expected their death, losing a family member is difficult.

As hard as these final days are, I like to help families find a way to make to make this final walk through life be one that, when reflected on days, months, or even years from now, will leave them with a full heart and allow them to say “the end was as it should’ve been.”

If you have lost your cat, or any animal friend, know first that your grief is real and valid, and that you are entitled to feel what you are feeling. Know also that it is important to connect with those who will understand and support you. Here are some thoughts that can help.

“When someone comes to pick up their pet portrait, very often they cry uncontrollably. Which, for me, is a sign that I have succeeded.” Read what artist Gene Hamilton has to say in this interview.

It’s important to transition from the mentality of “they died” to “let me tell you how he really lived.” This is true of people and pets.

Back in 2016, Liz Kirkham found a feral cat in a deathly ill state outside her apartment complex in Oxford, Ohio — and it was the start of a journey that would involve love, heartbreak, and the rescue of a second feline in need.