It is what we dont want to think about, but it in many cases it is the most natural unthinkable situation. When your pet passes away we are confronted with grief and sadness, you face fear, loneliness and a wide range of feelings and emotions.
Healthline.com concludes:
The loss of a cherished pet can be every bit as difficult as losing a person — or in some cases, even worse. Researchers have found that social support is essential for recovery during the grieving process
But why is this?
"Psychologist Julie Axelrod has pointed out that the loss of a dog is so painful because owners aren't just losing the pet. It could mean the loss of a source of unconditional love, a primary companion who provides security and comfort, and maybe even a protégé that's been mentored like a child." (theconversation.com)
How do can we deal with the grief? it is of course individual and there is no "one size fit all solution". But for all cat -and any animal lovers out there - acknowledge & honor your lost one is probably a good place to start.
Other advice:
Acknowledge your grief and give yourself permission to express it.
Don't hesitate to reach out to others who can lend a sympathetic ear. Do a little research online and you'll find hundreds of resources and support groups that may be helpful to you.
Write about your feelings, either in a journal or a poem, essay, or short story.
Call your veterinarian or local humane society to see whether they offer a pet-loss support group or hotline, or can refer you to one.
Prepare a memorial for your pet.
(https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/coping-death-your-pet)
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