I lost one of my best friends yesterday—my dear Abegail. My friend Jessica Henderson and I adopted her on November 8, 1996, and I remember that day clearly. We were college sophomores, and the apartment we shared with two other friends was in desperate need of a feline roommate. We brought home that scared three-month-old orange tabby from the Lexington Humane Society, and I gained a beloved companion who would stay with me for fifteen years.
She was a feisty girl with a strong personality, and that’s what I loved about her the most. She was also very vocal; I’ll miss hearing all her different meows, guttural chirps, and growls. She even used to make a noise that sounded like a dog barking.
She was diagnosed with diabetes several years ago but continued to live a fairly active life. She eventually adjusted to my coming at her with a syringe twice a day. It will take me a while to adjust to her absence, as her care required twice-daily injections and I fed her five meals a day. Even while she was hospitalized, when it was shot time I had to remind myself that I didn’t need to worry about that.
Natalie doesn’t yet know that Abegail isn’t coming home; for now she knows that she’s been sick and at the doctor’s, but we will have to explain things to her in terms that she can understand—and very soon. We’re not looking forward to that at all, but Natalie is inquisitive and asks questions. She’s already been telling me that she misses Abegail. Sweetie, you don’t know the half of it.
I’ll keep my fond memories of Abegail Anne close, and although I miss her so terribly, I know she led a long, happy life. Goodbye, my sweet girl. You’ll always be in my heart.
Amy, I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your precious pet. I too, lost my 15 year old cat, Sara, one week before Christmas. It was a sad day, as I always knew it would be. She was more like a dog in personality, always by my side.I hope you can take some measure of comfort in knowing there are others of us out here feeling the same type grief that you are. I will be thinking of you. Kim Sego Tully
ReplyDeleteWe lost a cat about 6 years ago Christmas. It took us a week to get over it. It is a sad time. I know how you feel. Connie C
ReplyDeleteWe know how you feel. After the loss of Cadey and Sassy, Karen was very upset as were the kids and myself. It really is tough losing a pet that was with you for nearly half of your life. Especially when you had to make that decision to let her sleep. Please find comfort in the knowledge that the hurt will eventually subside and the fond memories will remain.
ReplyDeleteDavid, Karen, Tyler & Raegan
We are sending all our love and thoughts for you all at this sad time. There really are no words that can make this situation any better. We will keep you in our prayers and please be on the look out for any 'signs' from her. After Jaiya passed we received many signs from above letting us know that she was okay and safe.....Please give Natalie kisses and hugs!!
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