Ginger, How my surviving "sister" and I miss her Options

[mxmelba]

Hi. This past Friday night at 7:10 pm I received a call from a woman who had just hit my cat, Ginger. This was the worst phone call I have ever received. I didn't want to hear her when she asked crying "Are you Ginger's mother?" I screamed no and then she said she was so sorry. I threw the phone at my husband. I couldn't believe it. My heart literally broke that instant. Then my poor husband had to go get our beloved pet from the street. It was awful. I am still a wreck. I can't stop crying.

One of the saddest things is watching our other cat grieve. I have always called them sisters, even though they aren't litter mates. We got them at the same time. They are both young, not even 2 years old. I can't stand watching Mary Ann the surviving cat (her "sister") be so sad. I am torn at getting her another friend. The thought breaks my heart, but I want to do what ever it takes to make it easier on Mary Ann. Mary Ann was so close to Ginger that if I tried to take Ginger to the vet and not bring Mary Ann, Mary Ann would vommit she would get so upset, so I would just haul them both (in the same carrier!). I am at such a loss. I know there is no right answer to this. I am not really ready, but I also can't stand seeing my cat so sad. She just lays there and follows me with her eyes and is constantly grooming herself. My family (and husband) all say I should get another friend for her. Mary Ann has always been the mellow cat, where Ginger was the more active (and vocal) cat. I think a kitten would be too much, and I am unsure of getting a male. I am sorry I am rambling, but my heart is broken and I am unsure if or when I should get another companion.

Also, they were inside-outside cats with a cat door. I have been scared to let Mary Ann out because I do not want her to go looking for Ginger. She really wants to go out. Does anyone have any suggestions on when I can let her out again? Also, I am scared that she will get hit. I know there are no certaintys in life. I am just so extremely sad. She was so young. Any insights or suggestions on any of this would be greatly appreciated. (I know this is a touchy subject for cat owners with some people firmly believeing in indoor only and others not. I am not looking to discuss this subject, I am just looking for some advice for my situation.)

One last note, to all the people who have lost a pet, especially recently, my heart goes out to you. I know what you are going through and it is just plain awful. Thanks for listening.

[lewcynt]

Melissa,

I know the guilt and pain that you feel for leaving Mary Ann home alone. I had actually resorted to leaving on the radio, or sometimes the tv just so that it would seem like someone was there. And while I never actually purchased anything becasuse he adjusted fairly quickly, there are videos and dvd's that you can purchase for your cat. essentially they are nature videos designed to stimulate and occupy your cat. The one that I was looking at was offered by CatDVD. I believe they offer a money back guarantee on all their videos and DVD's.
http://www.catdvd.com/

CatDVD is just one company that I found, there are many others that are out there. Or if you have a video recorder on hand you can attempt to make your own. its just a suggestion.

Cynthia