We didn’t name him, but we loved him, a robust cat-about-town who once lived a few houses over. He has been part of our family for nearly 14 years.
Mouse loved his treats, and once plumped up to 18 pounds. He used to follow us around the block on our evening walks, and unlike most cats, he loved—and at times demanded—that I pick him up. I happily obliged.
Mike jokingly called him my “white haired gentleman.”
To love a cat is to pretend they’ll go on forever. You park science at the curb and love them with your whole heart.
In May, rapid weight loss and slowed eating led to a series of tests. My once plump boy was frail.
After our last visit to the Cat Hospital, our treasured vet sent us home, assuring me that Mousy was weak but not in pain, and it would be okay for him to die at home.
My sweet boy spent the last two weeks on a blanket in our closet, accepting small servings of Churu treats, licked from my fingers, before putting his head down to rest. It’s been a long and sad goodbye.
An exquisite poem by Garrison Keillor, “In Memory of Our Cat, Ralph”
Gardening Nirvana 
Oh it is so painful when they go. I’m so sorry for the loss of your white-haired gentleman called Mouse.
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Thank you so much. He was a special cat, loved by so many. We’re lucky to have had him in our lives.
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a long sad goodbye, but a long life filled to the brim with memories you will cherish once you get past the tears.
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Thank you, Claire. We have wonderful memories of life with this kitty. He made us laugh and showed us his love. He will be missed.
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Oh, so sorry! This one brought tears to my eyes. How hard it is when a beloved fur buddy dies. So glad he lived with you and your husband and was lovingly cared for. Hugs from Maine.
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Thank you, Laurie. Mouse was a larger than life presence in our days. We miss him, and can’t quite believe he’s gone.
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So sad. We felt the same way about our dear little Miss. House felt so empty. Sigh.
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Alys, I so love these pics of Mouse; what a beautiful memorial. You certainly provided a wonderful life for him these 14 years and I know he gave you lots of pleasure.
Mary Mc
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Thank you, Mary. Mouse was the best companion and we are grateful to have had him in our lives all these years. We miss him, and can’t quite believe he’s gone. xo
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Alys:
Please accept my condolences. I loved Mouse. His regal stare never failed to warm my heart. I hope you can move on with minimal pain. He was a magnificent cat. ❤️❤️
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Thank you for your kind words and thank you, too, for loving Mouse. He was a special cat.
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Very sorry for your loss. A family pet is a beloved member of the family, and their loss is certainly felt.
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Thank you, Judy. It doesn’t seem quite real yet as I look for him around corners. I appreciate you loving words.
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Terry and I are so sorry for your loss Alys. I know you are feeling the pain of losing a beloved pet at the moment but in the future I bet a smile will come to your face when looking at any of these beautiful photos of Mouse.
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Thank you Terry and Joe, Mouse was a character, a wonderful companion, spirited, funny, loving and easy going. We joked that he was part dog. I appreciate your kind words.
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💜 🙏🏼 A sad loss for you, Alys. A good friend and a good life, RIP Mouse. 💔
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He was a wonderful kitty. Thank you for your kind words, Eliza.
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Sorry for your loss, Alys. Our pets really find a way into our hearts. 💕
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Thankk you, Jane. That they do. xo
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Oh Alys, I am so sorry. It is so hard saying goodbye to a family member but he was clearly loved and had a good and long life. Hugs. ❣️
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Thank you for that hug, Cathy, and for your kind words. We’re all a bit stunned at this stage. We miss him, and can’t quite believe he’s gone.
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I am so terribly for your loss. I am so happy that Mouse had a wonderful life with you and gave you happiness during his brief life. Your photos are beautiful and an amazing way to honor Mouse.
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I am so sorry for your loss. Mouse had a wonderful life with you. It is so hard to lose a family member. Thank you for sharing the beautiful photos of your Mouse.
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Oh Alys …. Mouse has been such a part of your family, and yes, with our animal family members we do put science aside and somehow think they will never leave us.
Sending you comfort and love ❤️
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(I guess you know this is Laurie)
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I have come to this post late, and I am so sorry. Our fur children are doubly precious because we know we have to release them long before we are ready. I still miss my own Mouse. I hope you’ll be able to take comfort from the support of your friends and from the knowledge that he had a wonderful life and a gentle passing. You’ll see him again one day, I’m sure of that; how can it not be so when they pour out so much love?
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Mouse knew good people when he found you and decided to stay. He made a very good choice. You will have him in your heart with all the others you have loved back to heaven. That kind of love is enduring, not fleeting. My heart aches for you a bit but is a bit envious of that shared love. It’s so special.
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so sorry to hear of your loss. A pet is a loved member of the family and will be deeply missed.
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Mouse led a good life with you and Mike, Alys. He was a handsome fellow and I could see his personality shine through all the photographs. I join you in the sorrow of your loss, and joy in the wonderful memories you have of him. Hugs to you and your family. 🐱 🌈🐾 ❤️
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Oh, Alys, I am so very sorry for your loss. What a beautiful tribute to dear Mousey! Your precious photos tell a wonderful love story. Mousey definitely chose the right family. Sending gentle hugs, my friend! 🩷Dawn
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I am so sorry Alys. He is a sweetheart.
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Thank you, Cindy. He was a gem.
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So sorry Alys, I’ve only just seen this being sadly behind with all social media at the moment. I owe you an email too.
A well loved presenter of an animal rescue charity programme here in the UK, now sadly no longer with us, summed it up well in this quote
“Taking any animal into your life will inevitably end in heartache but you don’t worry about the hangover while you’re at the party”
Paul O’Grady
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No apology, necessary, Lynn. I’m always pleased to see you here. I will look forward to a catch up when you have time and energy.
Thank you for sharing that beautiful quote. I’m going to copy it into my journal for future reference.
I hope you are well. I’m sending caring thoughts across the miles.
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