Our precious Zee.

When we lost Zee on March 18, 2022, our once eight-cat household, now seven, has never been the same. He was such a large part of our lives, and honestly, to this day, it seems surreal and impossible that he’s gone. I grieve him and all the other many pets I’ve had to say goodbye to over the years, not just on Rainbow Bridge Remembrance Day, but every day. But today, I don’t dwell on the loss. Instead, I humbly count my blessings, living in the past, present, and future of life.

We have a very decidedly senior feline contingency in our home now, and recent months have shifted mentally and physically for me as I try to keep everyone in check. This makes a day like Rainbow Bridge Remembrance Day more meaningful, as I know how fleeting my time left with them could be. I’m at that point now of daily doses of medications for some of my cats, shifts in diets, numerous vet visits, and the simple fact that, if I thought I spoiled them before, it’s gone up a-thousand-fold. My biggest battle is getting them to eat, and I’ve thrown sensibility to the wind. I’m grateful if they eat something, regardless of what it is.

I still feed them three small meals a day, but if they are standing next to the cupboard staring and wanting food, I will give them something to nibble on. I want them to be happy, and for those I am indulging in, it is not a concern of obesity but the complete opposite. I’ve stocked the cupboard with an assortment of foods to entice their appetites and keep their palettes tempted, and if something is a “winner,” I’ll stick with it, buying more until they determine they don’t like it anymore.

And my comfort. Forget about it. In the evening, when I’m watching TV, and it’s time for bed if any of them are snuggled into my body, I’m not going to disturb them to go to bed. Instead, I stay on the couch and spend the night there. How can I get up when a tiny, precious being is purring next to me?

As far as the future is concerned, that one is a bit more complicated. When we say goodbye to a pet, it is often so unbearable that we can’t fathom ever bringing another animal into our home or hearts again. But usually, we do. There is never a timeline for when it’s right; the heart just knows. I also believe that when a pet becomes an angel, it gives another animal a chance at a loving, forever home if the person is up for it.

Take care everyone. My heart is with you for all who have loved and lost a pet.

xoxox

Rainbow Bridge Remembrance Day is a special day dedicated to honoring the memories of those beloved pets in our lives we have loved and lost but never forgotten. Whether a pet with fur, fin, feathers, scales, or something else – one pet or many – this day was created for you to honor that pet in any way that feels most comfortable to you. Post a picture, write a poem, share a favorite memory, host a memorial event, upload a video, or write a special blog post and share the link.

ABOUT RAINBOW BRIDGE REMEMBRANCE DAY:
Rainbow Bridge Remembrance Day was founded in 2015 by Deborah Barnes, award-winning author and blogger of Zee & Zoey’s Cat Chronicles, in tribute to her Ragdoll cat, Mr. Jazz, whom she had to say goodbyes to on August 28, 2013. She shared the journey of letting him go in her critically acclaimed book, Purr Prints of – A Cat’s Tale of Life, Death, and Beyond, and decided to create the day in his honor as a way for others across the world to share memories of their pets they had loved and lost.

Logo designed by Deborah Barnes