"My cat died" or "my dog died" are not easy situations to deal with. The grief for the loss of a cat is no different from that we feel for a family member or friend. After all, living with the animal was a period of love, companionship and a lot of exchange of affection. Losing someone so important can be painful, especially when we no longer have our own pet to ease the pain. Although notbe easy, some tips can help you cope better with animal grief, whether it's a cat or a dog. Here's what to do at this difficult time.

1) Live through all the stages of grieving for an animal

Grief - pet or not - is a combination of physical, emotional and behavioral reactions to a very large loss. When it comes to an animal, the behaviors are the same as those of a loved one. However, it should be noted that it is unique and each one has its own way of acting, feeling and going through it. See what are the phases of animal grief.

• Denial This is a defense mechanism where the individual does not accept, let alone understand, the loss.
• Anger: happens when it is impossible to deny the absence, but instead of pain, there is a certain rage against the lack.
• Bargaining: is an unconscious attempt to get someone back, where the guardian seeks to reverse the situation in various ways, mainly spiritual. In the case of animals, it can even happen a new cat adoption as a means of replacing the loss.
• Depression: in this phase, pain is faced head on, as it is finally possible to deal with it.
• Acceptance: here the guardian already knows how to deal with his own pain and begins to live better with this loss, as well as accepting the departure of the animal.

The five stages of grief do not necessarily happen in that order, but acceptance always comes last. It is important to allow yourself to live through each stage and to be kind to yourself in each moment. Be patient and respectful of the pain. Never blame yourself for the loss. Understand that although painful, grief is a necessary evil so that you can relearn to live without the company of your cat.

2) Animal grief: cat or dog were good companions, but you can - and should - talk to friends

Unfortunately, not everyone understands who suffers from animal grief and many forget that the cat was also a loved one - which makes everything even more difficult. Because it is treated as a taboo by others, there is still not much general support and this can lead to isolation of the guardian. At these times, it is interesting to talk to other people who have gone through or are going through the same loss, which can be very helpful.a great welcome.

It is also important to be around loved ones who empathise with your grief, they will be key to you being able to express yourself and cope better with grief. Don't be ashamed to vent to loved and trusted people. Even if you have other cats at home, it is a good time to be close to them. Believe me, when one cat dies, the other misses it. So, he is toosuffering.

3) If necessary, seek professional support to deal with pet bereavement

If necessary, seek professional help. Everyone copes with grief as they can, but when it is not experienced in a healthy way and the loss is impacting on routine, it may be time to seek a health professional, such as a psychologist. They have the right training and understanding to guide the guardian through this difficult time.

4) How to overcome the grief of an animal and what to do to move on?

It's important to create a new routine. You know those times when you used to devote yourself exclusively to your kitten? Whether it's feeding, grooming or playing: these will be the hardest times, which have been abruptly cut from your daily life. The best way to deal with this lack is to try to do something pleasurable. It may seem painful to feel like you're moving on, but it's necessary.And just as important as what you do with the animal's body, is to treat the feline's belongings with care. Either by storing them in other places, or donating them to other guardians and animal adoption ngos.

5) Prepare for grief: pets live less than their owners

Be aware of the departure of the animal in life A pet can be one of the best companions of someone. The desire is to have them forever. But unfortunately, how long a cat lives is still a very short period and you have to be aware of it. This does not mean that you should live anxious or afraid of the departure of the animal, quite the contrary: it should be a stimulus for you to have a cat.enjoy every moment together. This perception of finitude is what can further strengthen the cat's relationship with its guardian.

6) Don't let grief over a pet become a trauma

Don't lose your love for animals It is quite common that, after the loss, the guardians do not want another pet around, avoiding a new suffering. After all, a new cat will not be the same as the one that is gone. But it is important to remember that every animal offers love and unique experiences. Even cat love is one of the most sensitive. To spare yourself from nurturing affection for pets is to avoid being happy and doing it in the best way possible.happy other furry.

However, this does not mean that you should seek a new adoption right away. The responsibilities for the animal's life will still be the same - including the emotional responsibility. So only decide to adopt a cat when you feel safe and prepared to care for a new life.