Losing Missy Was Like Losing A Child

I can't even begin to describe the heartache I'm feeling after losing my precious Missy last Tuesday. My husband and I never had children, so we poured all our love on our two precious cats. The only thing that consoles me everytime I feel that void she left is knowing she'll never have to experience pain and that my husband now has a piece of me with him in heaven. I know someday, we'll all be together. I stayed with Missy at the clinic till her last breath and I'm glad I did. For now, I have to make sure my other cat doesn't get depressed. Do you think that animals go through the same grief that we experience? Missy, I love you so much and I miss you so terribly! Love, your Mommy