I just said goodbye to the best cat ever.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

Yes, I know all cats are the best cat, but Milo really was the best cat. He was a big, fluffy orange and white guy with the sweetest disposition - he loved people, all people, and greeted everyone who came to the house. When I was having some remodeling done a few years ago I finally had to shut him in another room because he pestered the carpenters constantly, like, Hey, what are you doing? Can I help? Do you have any food? You should pet me instead of whatever that thing is you're doing. And if I was ignoring him while standing and talking to someone else he'd launch himself at my torso so I had to catch him and pet him. He followed me around like a puppy for all of his seventeen years. He really was the best cat, but he had cancer and got too sick, so I had to let him cross the Rainbow Bridge today.

Run free, Milo. I love you and you were the best cat ever.



and

[spooky3]

1. I'm so sorry. Nt

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

25. Thank you.

[Zoonart]

2. So sorry you lost your beautiful boy.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

27. Thanks, he really was a beauty.

[Skittles]

3. I know the pain

Grieve not,
nor speak of me with tears,
but laugh and talk of me
as if I were beside you…
I loved you so —
’twas Heaven here with you.

Isla Paschal Richardson

[Karadeniz]

16. That is beautiful! I hadn't heard of the writer...thanks!❤

[qazplm135]

4. lost my best friend two years ago after 11 years to cancer

she was also the best cat in the world. My condolences. Getting a new one right away helped me. She's different but still awesome.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

28. Losing the best cat ever is tough.

The universe will send me a cat or cats when or if I should have them. My remaining cat is a bit of a diva, will have to see how she is all by herself for awhile.

[soldierant]

206. Well. When you do

I know, it's hard to see the orange and the fluff in this photo, but they'll be there.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

207. Aww! *sniff*

Maybe that's why new cats seem to adjust so quickly... I still have one cat, Pixie, who's 12 and a bit of a diva, so she might not be disposed to newcomers just yet. I'm going to wait for a bit. Ideally I'd like to adopt a bonded pair of adults, but I have to get Pixie's approval.

[soldierant]

209. Of course you do.

It'a always folly do take steps without the cat's approval.

Hugs.

[peacebuzzard]

5. How sad, I am so sorry.

Sweet Milo, great cat...Rest In Peace.
I am sorry for your loss today...

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

29. Thank you, he certainly was a great cat.

[montanacowboy]

6. Rest Easy

Sweet kittie
So sorry, so sorry

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

30. Thanks.

[skylucy]

7. So very sorry.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

32. Thank you.

[Maraya1969]

8. I'm so sorry. He looks like a great cat!

May he Rest in Peace

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

33. He was indeed a great cat. The greatest.

Thank you.

[IcyPeas]

9. my condolences.

did you do the wonderful painting of Milo?

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

35. Thank you.

I did do the painting, just last winter. I have another in the works of Jeoffry, my other cat who passed suddenly last month.

[MelissaB]

10. I'm so sorry.

Our pets are family and it's brutal when we lose them.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

37. It is, but you know it's inevitable and we adopt then anyhow.

[mr_lebowski]

11. So sorry VO ... losing our furry friends is the friggin' worst, man ...

Well, I mean, certainly there's people in my life I'd hate to lose even more.

But it sure sucks.

Sounds like you gave Milo a wonderful life full of love, which he returned in spades.

"Weep not that it is over ... smile because it happened ..."

Always a good outlook, if possible to manage.



Milo

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

38. That is a good way to look at it.

I'm glad the best cat was part of my life.

[MuseRider]

12. Hugs to you.

He sounds like a great guy. Be well, you did what was right for him. IMO there is nothing in this world or outside of it that could be more exciting and inspiring than the Rainbow Bridge. I look forward to seeing all my old but never forgotten loves again. Milo will launch himself and you will both be happy again.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

40. I told him today that I'd see him on the other side.

I hope the Rainbow Bridge is a real thing even if all the other stuff isn't.

[SheltieLover]

106. My condolences

I think the rainbow bridge is more real than what we are living. Your beautiful baby will be with you always. Sit quietly & think of him. You will feel him with you.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

108. Thanks. I think you're right.

[SheltieLover]

109. You are welcome

Love knows no separation.

[BusyBeingBest]

13. I'm sorry about your beautiful kitty.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

41. Thank you.

[yardwork]

14. I'm sorry for your loss. Milo was a good friend.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

42. Thanks. He was a better friend than a lot of people.

[3catwoman3]

15. I never know what to say in the threads of this nature.

I can absolutely see him inserting himself into the carpentry scene.

May his spirit send you a successor when the time is right.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

44. Yes, he was a total pest to anybody who wanted to get something done

in my house, but everybody got a big kick out of him. The universe will send me a cat if I should have another (that my last surviving cat is OK with).

[Karadeniz]

17. I've had cats like Milo. They're such a gift. I'm so sorry he's gone...I know he made you happy

Just seeing Beauty.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

45. He was a joy.

[Freddie]

18. I am so sorry

Something special about orange (or orange and white) cats. They really are more loving with great personalities. You gave him a great life for 17 years, can’t do any better than that.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

46. He was kind of dog-like, he was so gregarious.

I don't know if it was because of his orangeness (orangeness really doesn't seem to make people nicer) but he was crazy friendly.

[sinkingfeeling]

19. I'm so sorry for the loss of your beautiful guy, Milo.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

47. Thank you.

[niyad]

20. Lady Bast, please take Beloved Milo gently inYour loving arms, and give peace and comfort

to his loved ones.

((((((((VO))))))))) it is so hard to lose our beloved companions. Thank you for sharing your
Milo with us.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

48. I have a statue of Bast.

I like to think of a cat spirit welcoming them all home.

[NoRoadUntravelled]

21. I'm so very sorry for your loss.

He's beautiful in the photos and looks so sweet. Helping a beloved pet cross that bridge is one of the most difficult and selfless things a person can do. Thinking of you during this time of sadness.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

49. It's hard, but we wouldn't be without our pets

even if that's the cost.

[NoRoadUntravelled]

67. I'm with you.

My sweet Minnie crossed the bridge 3 years ago this month at 17 years. Tundra, who is 20 this month is still with me and doing well. So true. Even with the sadness when they leave us we know the heartache was worth it for the love and sweetness we received in return when they were here.

[Fla Dem]

22. Milo sounds like he was a fun loving wonderful cat. He gave you 17 loving years,

Last edited Tue Jun 16, 2020, 09:41 AM - Edit history (1)

And you gave him your heart. I’m sorry your best boy is gone. Peace Milo. 😿

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

51. He really was fun-loving. Even as he got older he liked to play.

[secondwind]

23. Oh, what a beautiful animal!! Am sorry he crossed over. 😩

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

52. Thank you. He was a beauty, and a sweetheart.

[Tikki]

24. Hugs to The Velveteen Ocelot and all who loved Milo...

These incredible creatures stay in out hearts, forever.

Right where they belong..

Tikki

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

53. Paw prints all over our hearts..

[dflprincess]

26. I am so, so sorry.

Never easy to lose a good friend like Milo. He was a lucky cat to have you.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

55. Thanks. I was a lucky human to have him.

[Laffy Kat]

31. My deepest condolences, VO.

They give us so much while they're with us and take a piece of our hearts when they leave.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

56. Thanks. He was 15 pounds of pure love wrapped in fur.

I'm going to miss him.

[irisblue]

34. 🕯️Milo

I am so sorry for your loss.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

57. Thank you.

[Thekaspervote]

36. So so for your loss! Milo looks like such a dignified sort...hard to lose that kind of friend

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

58. Thanks. He was really kind of a clown, one of the qualities

that made him so lovable.

[Jack-o-Lantern]

39. Someone once asked me what the most difficult thing about having a cat is....

I shook my head, looked down to the floor with my eyes closed and replied...

“The goodbye”.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

59. That's exactly right. But we have them anyhow

because they're more than worth it.

[Scarsdale]

70. So very true.

So hard to make the decision, but when the time comes we have to love them enough to let them go. Milo looks like a handsome dude, alright. He was one of the lucky ones, who discovered what it is like to be loved. You gave him a great life, full of happiness. Luckily you have your other cat to help you heal.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

81. Thank you.

He had a pretty happy life, I think.

[tblue37]

43. Beautiful boy. I am very sorry for you. No time is ever the right time, no matter how

old they are when we have to let them go.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

61. Thanks. Even when you know it's inevitable and there's nothing to be done

it's too soon, even when it's not.

[Wolf Frankula]

50. I'm sorry for your loss.

I know what it's like to lose a furry best friend.

Wolf

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

62. Thank you.

[Niagara]

54. I'm so sorry for your loss, VO.

I know what it's like having to put a beloved cat to sleep due to cancer. It's been 8 years and I still haven't gotten over her. Thinking of you and sending you strength.


R.I.P. Milo

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

63. Thanks, and my condolences to you, too.

We don't ever forget them, do we?

[Niagara]

117. Never.

They will always be in our hearts.

[Rebl2]

60. Milo sounds

like he was a wonderful companion and very friendly. Sorry for your loss.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

66. He was a great friend. Thank you.

[rustysgurl]

64. I'm so sorry for your loss.

My candle is lit to guide his way to the Bridge. Rest in peace, Milo. You gave good value.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

69. Thanks so much for your light.

[PoindexterOglethorpe]

65. I am so sorry.

I wish I could have met him.

Like a lot of others here, all of my cats have been the Best Cat Ever.

I recently adopted a 17 year old cat from the local shelter. Her previous owner gave her up because there were kidney and thyroid issues. It was explained to me very carefully that she could live two months or two years, and that I needed to know what I was in for. I was just fine with that, as I'd had elderly cats before.

Alas, she was with me only three and a half weeks. Then she stopped eating, went into a rapid decline, and I brought her back to the shelter to do the merciful thing. As sorry as I am that she wasn't with me longer, those few weeks were wonderful and I'd do it again. Indeed, I keep on monitoring the shelter website to see if they'll get in another older cat. I personally don't want a kitten, and of course it is kitten season.

Anyway, Milo was gorgeous and I bet he made a great carpenter's assistant.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

71. I'm sorry you lost your old cat after such a short time,

but thanks for taking on a senior citizen. If the universe decides to send me another cat, I'd want a bonded adult pair. My remaining cat is a bit of a diva who might be happier as an only cat, so I'll have to see how things develop. Milo was an excellent carpenter's assistant, although I'm not sure the carpenters thought so (especially this one time when he was just about to disappear into a wall before we grabbed him).

[PoindexterOglethorpe]

89. I did volunteer work at an animal shelter about 15 years ago,

and I saw how rarely older cats were adopted. I suppose the same is true for older dogs. Plus, I'm 71 years old, and while my health is excellent (I could tell you about the plans I have for my 97th birthday) the reality is taking in a kitten is risking that she'd outlive me. The saddest cases I saw when I worked at the shelter were the cats whose owner had died or gone into a nursing home, and no one close to them was able or willing to taken them in. There was one pair I would have taken home, except at that point we already had two cats, and it would have been to disruptive to them and the humans in the household.

Some day when you are ready for a new cat, let the local shelter know you'd like a bonded adult pair. They probably come in more often than we realize.

[lunatica]

68. Hugs to you

Your painting of him is wonderful. You are very kind not to let him suffer horribly.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

73. Thanks for the hugs and the compliment for the painting.

There was no chance I'd let him suffer. It was a tough decision but I couldn't let that happen.

[Gothmog]

72. It is hard to say goodbye to a member of the family

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

74. It is. But I just can't stand to be without pets in my life.

[Gothmog]

88. My cat lived to 23 years and was amazing

He was over 20 pounds and was an inside/outside cat who once caught and brought me a dead jackrabbit (we lived in the country near some orange groves and cornfields). He was very proud of himself.

I said goodbye to my bearded collie about 6 or so years ago. He was 15 and was the boss the house. Two of my children said goodbye to him but my middle child was in Iowa in law school. I flew her home just to say goodbye. I picked her up at airport and we drove straight to the vet's office and was there when they gave my friend the shot.

A year ago, I got a new beardie puppy and he has helped during the quarantine. My middle child got his brother. Again, this was stupid but my middle child and I drove up to Wisconsin to pick up these two puppies. It took me five years to be ready for another dog and my new puppy is having fun.

I am so sorry for you loss. I understand what you are going through. Time will cure the hurt. It is okay to take some time before you replace your family member

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

94. Sorry for the loss of your collie and your cat.

Bagging a jackrabbit is pretty impressive.

[MLAA]

75. 💖💕 and support to you. And Godspeed to Milo.

The portrait of Milo is just beautiful. Did you paint it?

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

79. Thank you.

I painted his portrait just last winter and I'm glad to have that memento.

[MLAA]

82. Velveteen Ocelot, you are an excellent artist.

I’ve been learning to paint the last few years and love painting cats and dogs. If it’s okay with you, I will save your portrait to learn from stand strive for.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

84. Thanks for saying so!

I did the painting in an art class so I had some guidance. The hardest part is the eyes, I think. Please post some of your paintings if you feel so inclined.

[MLAA]

105. Here you go

Edited to fix last link



https://imgur.com/a/yXp4cge



https://imgur.com/Hc2BWC9

And started this one a few days ago

blob:https://imgur.com/a79fc1a6-51ae-4088-8121-f033c6a3e8b3

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

107. Those are really good! Thanks for posting them.

Nice job on the dog's eyes, and I just love the smiley cat on the book (the last link didn't open, though). I have to get back to the painting of Jeoffry I started before he passed away.

[MLAA]

110. It might give you comfort to paint Jeoffry 🙂

Thank you for your kind words.

I fixed the last link.

[Solly Mack]

76. I'm so sorry. Furbabies fill a hole we didn't even know

needed filling. They come into our lives and a piece falls into place.

They leave behind memories that are both a comfort and an ache.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

77. And when they depart they leave a huge cat-shaped hole.

But the hole will be filled with happy memories, of which I have many.

[onecaliberal]

78. I'm so sorry for your loss. 💔

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

80. Thank you.

[gordianot]

83. My George would pass as his twin.

I am basically a servant to cats.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

87. We are all servants to our cats.

[chowder66]

85. My first cat looked like him and launched himself up into my arms

it was a form of catch. I miss him still and am so sorry for your loss.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

90. Isn't it cool when they do that?

Milo is the only cat I've ever known who did that, and I'll miss that little quirk.

[chowder66]

98. It was cool! He was a big boy (about 24 lbs). I had him from when he was a kitten

He had the biggest bones I'd ever seen on a cat. Big dude... but the sweetest cat. He lived 18 years.

[Amy-Strange]

86. My condolences, and...

-

Shadow sends hers also:


==========

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

91. Thank you, and thank Shadow, too.

She's a lovely cat!

[seta1950]

92. Sweet Milo 😭

I’m sorry for your loss

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

97. Thank you.

[pazzyanne]

93. So sorry, The Velveteen Ocelot!

What a pleasure it must have been to have spent the years with such a wonderful fury friends as Milo and Jeffrey. You have been blessed. Here is to the memories you made with them. Take care.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

95. Thank you. Those were good years with those guys.

Just now I went into the kitchen and made the usual mental note not to step on Milo because on warm nights he'd sleep near the kitchen door. But he wasn't there, like Jeoffry isn't sleeping on the back of the couch. But I think there are cat ghosts. I've already seen Jeoffry and Milo might appear, too. Yes, I'm crazy.

[pazzyanne]

104. But it is the good kind of crazy.

I have had a lot of cats over the past 75 years. Each one brings it's special gifts with it, but there are a handful that stand out. Oh, the memories!

[Leghorn21]

96. Orange kitties are more like dogs, in my experience, Ocelot! Loose, fearless and friendly, and not

skittish in the least!! Those oranges will just walk right up to you in the street and say “whassuppp” without a moment’s hesitation!

I’m so so sorry you had to send your boy on - I believe every DUer on this board well knows the anguish of “doing the right thing” for our delightful companions, and it’s just the fkn worst...it just is.

Sending deepest condolences to you on this sad, sad night

-Sandy

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

101. Thank you. Orange cats are lovely creatures.

Orange people, not so much.

Doing the right thing for your animal friend does suck but it comes with the deal we accept when we take them in, and they're absolutely worth it.

[tom_kelly]

99. I'm sorry. Gosh, he was a big beautiful boy. n/t

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

103. He was 15 lbs. at his peak.

Unfortunately he'd become pretty thin when he got sicker, but in his prime he was quite the hunk.

[Blue Owl]

100. Aww I feel your pain, T.V.O.

I had a cat like that years ago, and miss him dearly. Such fond memories...

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

102. Thanks.

[PatrickforO]

111. I'm so sorry. A few months ago, we lost our Brave - at 19 he was just too old

to go on. I loved that cat just as I know you loved Milo.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

112. Thanks, and condolences for the loss of your Brave.

19 is a good long life, and he was loved. Can't ask for more than that.

[MissB]

113. I'm so sorry

I understand the loss all too well. Lost my orange kitty about two weeks back.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

114. Thanks, and my condolences to you for the loss of your orange kitty.

[MissB]

127. Thanks. Orange kitties are something special.

Truly amazing kitties with the friendliest personalities.

I’d live to adopt another one eventually but the emotions are too raw still.

[gademocrat7]

115. Condolences on the loss of your beloved cat.

Take care.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

116. Thank you.

[tiredtoo]

118. So Sad

IMHO this is the worst thing about owning pets. Put my dog down a while back. Thinking I want another but don't want to go through that again.
I will join you in your grieving tonight.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

121. Thank you, and I'm sorry for the loss of your dog.

It really is hard to go through the way it ends but I guess it goes with the territory.

[kimbutgar]

119. So sweet she looked like a pretty kitty.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

124. Milo was indeed a pretty kitty.

[Ellipsis]

120. I'm sorry man...

Reminds me of my Maggie. She past when she was twenty. More of roommate then a cat. Never overly affectionate. She liked to be close, but wouldn't ever put up with that lap shit. She loved to be out on the porch during a rain storm.

Cats man.


She was a mirror of your affection.

Especially if there was food involved.


Sorry again.

My best to you in your grief.


Mark

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

122. Thank you. Cats are great roommates if that's what they want to be.

[Ellipsis]

126. Indeed.

Drink up the grief... the cat would like that. In which I mean let let out the emotions.

Again, I'm sorry for your loss. Be well.

[murielm99]

123. He looks like the best cat.

I am so sorry.

We had Claudia for sixteen years. Just a couple of weeks ago, my son brought us Toby. He is an orange and white kitty, a rescue cat. He is smart and friendly.

We love our fur babies. I am glad you had a long time with yours.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

125. He was the best cat, and your Claudia and Toby are the best cats too.

We hope to have them around for as long as possible and it's never long enough.

[MontanaMama]

128. Oh no. Please accept my condolences

on the loss of your beautiful boy.

Milo.

The best kitty.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

129. Thanks, he was the best ever.

Like all cats everywhere.

[UpInArms]

130. I am so sorry

🐈 🌈

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

139. Thank you, UpInArms.

[rogerballard]

131. It is tough, safe journey Milo...

I helped 2 of my fur babies cross the Rainbow Bridge, I have 2 fur babies currently, if they need to cross, I might have a friend do it. I don't think I can handle my losing them, it gets harder each time for me.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

140. Thanks. It doesn't get easier, I'm afraid.

[vercetti2021]

132. I'm sorry for your loss

What a pretty cat

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

142. Thank you.

[TristanIsolde]

133. Sorry for your loss

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

143. Thanks.

Love your name, btw.

[mnhtnbb]

134. Oh, Milo looks so much like

our Elmo who is now living with my oldest son after my husband died.

I am sorry that you are going through this, too, Velveteen Ocelot.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

144. Thanks, and my condolences to you, too, for the loss of your dog Snowy.

That was a lovely tribute you posted. And I'm sorry, too, that you lost your husband. So many losses.

[brer cat]

135. I'm very sorry for your loss, Velveteen Ocelot.

It takes a long time for our hearts to heal when we lose such a great friend and companion. Hugs to you.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

145. Thanks.

Sometimes I think animal friends are the best friends of all.

[jimlup]

136. I feel your loss - RIP Milo

My own sweetie is 15 years old and is purring on my lap as I type this. She adopted me 13 years ago in September 2, 2007. That was two years after hurricane Katrina so she is named Katrina. She's the creature in the universe I am closest to. I need to get her to the vet but the pandemic has delayed that appointment. She's healthy and I want to keep her that way.

Best,

Jim

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

146. Thank you, and I hope Katrina keeps purring for a long time to come.

Both of the vet clinics I've been to lately (the regular vet and the emergency clinic) have you stay in your car while they examine and treat the animal - you call them and they come out and pick up the pet in his carrier or on a leash, and they (the humans) are all masked and gloved, and you also pay the bill over the phone. It seems very safe. The downside was that I couldn't be with Milo when he passed at the emergency clinic, but they did bring him out to me so I could say goodbye. The regular vet clinic has a backlog of appointments, probably because these procedures have slowed everything down, which is probably what you've experienced too.

[LiberalLoner]

137. I am so sorry for your loss.

What a beautiful tribute you wrote. How lucky Milo was to have you as his cat parent!

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

147. Thanks. The luck was mine at least as much as his.

He was a joy.

[LiberalLoner]

167. ❤️🌹

[Mike 03]

138. Velveteen Ocelot, I'm so very sorry for your loss.

Milo is gorgeous. I'm sure that there was no place in the universe he would rather have been, or was destined to be, than with you. It's a heartbreaking thing to lose a fur baby. You gave him a great life, and animals always return that love and it keeps coming even after they are gone, and it runs both ways.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

148. Thank you.

I think he was happy, and he certainly gave me plenty of happiness. He was the most cheerful cat I've ever known.

[sl8]

141. I'm sorry for your loss.

Thank you for sharing this tribute and Milo's portrait with us.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

149. Thank you.

It helps to write about it, and so do all of your condolences. I couldn't let him pass without acknowledging him.

[kinksfan1]

150. So sorry for your loss.

Such a sweet little guy.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

172. That he was. Thank you.

[MissMillie]

151. RIP Milo

So sorry for your loss TVO.

I'm sure Milo misses you too

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

174. Thank you.

I hope to see him on the other side, even if that sounds weird.

[Turin_C3PO]

152. Condolences.

I have a cat that looks and behaves exactly like Milo who is sixteen years old. I dread the day that is, no doubt, coming soon.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

175. Is there something about orange cats? They seem especially friendly.

I hope yours sticks around for awhile longer - I had another orange cat years ago who lived to be 21. He wasn't the sharpest knife in the drawer but he was also crazy friendly and loved everybody.

[ancianita]

153. Sorry for your loss, and hoping you'll feel some Milo spirit at times.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

178. Thanks, I already do.

[littlemissmartypants]

154. So sad to learn about Milo's crossing of the Rainbow Bridge.

He looks so handsome and does sound like he was a perfect companion. I hope you find comfort in the happy memories he left behind. ❤

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

179. Thank you. He was a handsome guy and a great friend.

[GentryDixon]

155. I'm so sorry. 💔😿🐾

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

180. Thank you.

[BComplex]

156. So sorry Ocelot.

I know that pain.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

181. Anyone who's ever had a pet knows it,

and I thank you all for understanding it.

[cate94]

157. I'm so sorry!

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

182. Thanks.

[PCIntern]

158. Awww. I'm so sorry.

May his memory be forever for a blessing

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

183. Thank you, I'm sure it will be.

[Happy Hoosier]

159. I'm so sorry. I lost my best friend last fall.

It devastated me. I've never been so close to a pet, and I've had a lot over the decades.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

184. I'm sorry you lost your best friend.

We love all of them, but there's always one who really owns your heart.

[kooth]

160. Sorry for your loss ...

In 2009, we lost our 19-year-old orange and white cat: We called him Kitten Witten. He was very much like you described your cat: He loved everyone: (Hello! I love you! Who are you?) We know how you feel. Hang in there.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

186. "Hello! I love you! Who are you?"

That was definitely Milo. I'm sure you still miss your Kitten Witten, too.

[roamer65]

161. RIP pretty kitty.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

187. Thank you.

[radical noodle]

162. It's earth-shattering to let them go

but the happy memories live on in our hearts forever. He was a beautiful boy.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

188. Yes it is, but it's worth it. Thanks.

[KT2000]

163. I'm so sorry

it is so hard, you have my sympathy. Peace to you and peace to Milo.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

191. Thank you.

Milo is in peace now, which is a relief even though I miss him terribly.

[mithnanthy]

164. So sorry...

My thoughts go out to you, for your loss.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

192. Thank you.

[Sucha NastyWoman]

165. Very sorry Velvet Ocelot

My five are all getting older now, and I will have to face this soon.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

195. Thanks.

It will be hard; I understand. Milo was the second one within a month. But for now you have five cats who love you and that's a lovely thing.

[CaptainTruth]

166. I'm so sorry... Cats bring so much love into a person's life.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

193. They sure do.

I still have one, Pixie, and I'm so glad she's still with me.

[samplegirl]

168. So very sad

for you.😢😢💔

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

194. Thank you.

[BlancheSplanchnik]

169. Please accept my sincere condolences, VelveteenOcelot...

It truly is devastating when we have to say goodbye, I know.
But somehow we survive that storm. Though it doesn’t feel that way while we’re in it. Grief is so very hard to go through, but you’ll go through it for Milo’s sake.
🌟🌈💖💧💔💧💖🌈🌟

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

190. Thank you. If you have pets you eventually have to deal with this

and it hurts but we do it anyhow. I can't imagine life without cats.

[BlancheSplanchnik]

200. Same. I literally don't understand people who don't want pets.

[Marthe48]

170. I said goodbye to my best cat last Monday

I think every cat has quirks, really as unique in character as humans. My best cat was the best non-vocal communicator I ever met. In the mornings, he'd open all the cupboards as I made coffee, took my bp pill and filled their dishes. I had to do it in order, so I didn't forget my pill. As the day went on, any time Flash was hungry, he'd slap his dish until I got food. If there were something on the floor which wasn't supposed to be there, he'd sit and stare at it until I picked it up. We have 2 other cats and my husband noticed that wherever Flash was, be could see both of them, always triangulation. We have a remotely operated dvd player. Whenever we used it, Flash would stalk it and if the drawer was opened when he was close enough, he'd jump at it and slap it. He was a big boy, 47" from tip of the nose to tip of the tail. I had him treated 4 weeks ago for gastroenteritis, but he didn't respond to treatment and died after 3 weeks. I buried him by the apple tree our kids planted for my husband and planted some impatiens seeds there.

I miss him. I'm sorry for your loss, because I know how the best cat gets in your heart and stays there.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

189. Flash sounds just delightful, and smart, and the best cat. I'm sorry you lost him.

It's a tough goodbye. We will always miss our best cats.

[Marthe48]

201. You're right

I've had many best cats, and all of my dogs were best dogs.

Sometimes I feel like Bo Jangles, after 20 years, I still cry.

[AwakeAtLast]

171. I'm so sorry.

I lost my 14 y/o Zoey last summer. I hope she welcomes Milo with a friendly head lick. It's so hard to lose a pet, but losing those older ones really stings.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

177. Those old guys have been around long enough that you don't know what to do

when they leave you. Sorry for the loss of Zoey.

[AwakeAtLast]

185. Thank you!

[The Wizard]

173. This piece helped me after losing cats

On January 4, 1993, the cat in this book and the books that preceded it was put to sleep in Kerrville, Texas, by DR. W.H. Hoegemeyer and myself. Cuddles was fourteen years old, a respectable age. She was as close to me as any human being I have ever known.
Cuddles and I spent many years together, both in New York, where I found her as a little kitten on the street in Chinatown, and later on the ranch in Texas. She was always with me, on the table, on the bed, by the fireplace, beside the typewriter, on top of my suitcase when I returned from a trip.
I dug Cuddles' grave with a silver spade, in the little garden by the stream behind the old green trailer where both of us lived in the summertime. Her burial shroud was my old New York sweatshirt and in the grave with her is a can of tuna and a cigar.
A few days ago I received a sympathy note from Bill Hoegemeyer, the veterinarian. It opened with a verse by Irving Townsend: "We who choose to surround ourselves with lives even more temporary than our own live within a fragile circle…"
Now as I write this, on a gray winter day by the fireside, I can almost feel her light tread moving from my head and my heart down through my fingertips to the keys of the typewriter. People may surprise you with unexpected kindness. Dogs have a depth of loyalty that we often seem unworthy of. But the love of a cat is a blessing, a privilege in this world.
They say when you die and go to heaven all the dogs and cats you ever owned in your life come running to meet you.
Until that day, rest in peace Cuddles.
Kinky Friedman
Madina, Texas
February 5, 1993

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

176. That's lovely. Thank you for posting it.

If my cats aren't in heaven I don't want to go there.

[Heartstrings]

196. So sorry.....😢

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

197. Thank you.

[11 Bravo]

198. Aww, I'm so sorry!

I'm a dog guy, but pets, ALL pets, are family.
When I lost my Golden Retriever, this place was here for me.
I hope the caring expressed by your fellow DUers helps to ease what I know is a pain that only another pet-lover can comprehend.

Peace to you, and Milo.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

199. Sorry for the loss of your golden retriever. They are lovely dogs

and yours was the best dog ever. And absolutely, all of our animal companions are family and we miss them terribly when they leave us.

[Stuart G]

202. I am sorry for your loss, I had to put my cat down 30 years ago.

It was an awful experience.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

203. Thank you.

It doesn't get better but there's no way around it if you have pets. It's the last loving thing you can do for them.

[Stuart G]

204. Yes, you are totally correct..Punum my cat was in total pain. She got feline lukemia from another

cat we had.. Awful.

[warmfeet]

205. Goodbye Milo. Best wishes!

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

208. Thanks.

[WinstonSmith4740]

210. So very sorry.

The worst part of having fur children is knowing you'll outlive them.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

211. Thank you. It is a sad thing about having a pet.

On the other hand, if they outlive you and your relatives aren't animal lovers, the pet could end up at the pound or worse. That's a worry, too. If you have any significant amount of money you could leave it to the pet in a trust that would ensure the pet would be properly taken care of. I'm old and I want to be sure any pets that might outlive me are looked after.

[redwitch]

212. What a beautiful boy!

Had to help our Trouble girl to the rainbow bridge yesterday. She was 22 years old and my dear, glued to my side Companion for what seems like forever. She died in my arms in the veterinarian’s parking lot. I am devastated and missing her.
Big hugs to you!

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

213. I'm so sorry about Trouble!

22 years is a good old age but it's never enough time. Maybe she and Milo went over the Rainbow Bridge together...

[LuckyCharms]

214. I'm so sorry.

Such a beautiful cat.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

215. Thanks. He really was a beautiful cat.

But they all are, I think.

[kwolf68]

216. My thoughts

are with you.

The pain is merely an expression of your love, and being able to love is a good thing.

And yea I am a cat guy. I got dogs, but love my cats too.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

217. Thank you for those thoughts.

Much appreciated.

[kwolf68]

218. Sure thing

Can I ask, was he your first cat? Or just the best cat? Or maybe both?

I didn't have cats a long time, but a girl friend of mine talked me into getting 1, so I got 2 (bro and sis) and at first I didn't care, then it took. I still miss them, the little calico was the bomb, she knew how to hug me. Even got a picture of her doing it.

Just remember it gets easier and eventually his memory will make you smile or laugh even though right now you may want to cry. Hang in there.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

219. He was the ninth of eleven. I'm old and I've had cats forever.

They were all the best cats in their own way but Milo had a real spark- he was a character, a cat among cats. I remember and miss all of them but he especially owned my heart.

[kwolf68]

220. I hear you

Wow, cool. The personality can be infectious. It sure goes quick.

[MissHoneychurch]

221. Oh no, not Milo!

I am so sorry!!! I remember you posting about Milo years ago.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

222. Thank you. I did post about him years ago.

He was almost 17 which is something like 85 in cat years, so it was expected. Still.....

[MissHoneychurch]

223. It is always hard to lose a beloved pet

They are family members after all.

[demmiblue]

224. I'm sorry for your loss.

I know the pain... the loss is a raw wound that eventually becomes a scar. Still present, but more manageable.

Beautiful sweetheart.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

225. Thank you.

[smirkymonkey]

226. I'm so sorry for your loss Velveteen Ocelot.

I know how devestating it is to lose a beloved pet. I wish you peace and hope you will be comforted by the loving memories of your dear cat. It will take a while. I always think of my pets who have passed on as my guardian angels and they are always with me. I still love them as much as I did when they were alive. It comforts me.

I don't know if that will work for you, but it's something that works for me Please accept my condolences.