My Cat Percy Options

[Ritch]

I lost my wonderful marmalade cat Percy on October 23rd because I failed to recognize how sick he was. By the time I got him to the vet, he was in such pain that a little rough handling by a receptionist put him into shock that he died from within seconds. Now I am going through the same torment that everyone else here has experienced. The grief is overwhelming sometimes, and although it is not as horrible as it was for the first few weeks I am still breaking down every day. My wife is getting worn down by my misery -- she was not really attached to Percy, and I was strongly bonded with him. Is there anything that helps with this, aside from time? Therapy, drugs, pet loss discussion groups, taking a vacation? If time does help, how long does it take to start feeling better? I know everyone is different, but I am trying to find things that will help and a goal to work toward. Thank you for your thoughts.

[moon_beam]

Hi, Ritch, thank you so much for sharing with us how you're doing. I am also very sorry the support group meeting you attended turned out to be a "marketing" session. Indeed, when a person seeks counseling / support group interaction they are already emotionally vulnerable, and are not always able to make the distinction ahead of time as to what constitutes good quality support either from an individual counselor or in a group setting. The only way to do this is to actually go. Several years ago I was in a situation where I needed professional counseling to help me through a very serious crisis. My initial exposure to a counselor was useless, and actually contributed to the crisis I was already dealing with. Eventually, a friend of mine helped me find a compassionate competent counselor who helped me sift through the wreckage of my life so that I could begin the process of rebuilding it. So I have known both the "bad" and the "good" that the counseling field has to offer. It does take some great effort to find the "good". Please know we are here for you for as long and as often as you need us.

Sleep deprivation can add to the stress of grieving, and I'm glad you have found something that is offering you the opportunity to restore your sleep patterns. I hope getting some good sleep will help you to begin to feel stronger as you travel your grief adjustment journey.

I hope today is treating you kindly, Ritch, and that you will have a peaceful evening blessed with your beloved Percy's sweet Living Spirit to comfort you. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers, and please let us know how you're doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam