Both of your stories and photos really touched me. I can only give you my heartfelt condolences. I am convinced my Dudley is a Burmese (he looks so much like both Toby and Boots!), and understand just how attached one can become to such an expressive and loving cat. I hope that time heals you, and that you are left with nothing but wonderful memories of an amazing friend.

My heart aches for you both. Toby was a very unique and special cat. I still remember the day we picked him out, and I was pretty young. He was so layed back and devoted, even enduring all the things I put him through, like pushing him around in a baby stroller. He was loved and is missed very much. He will forever be a part of our family. May God bless you and heal your heart from this loss. I love you.

I'm so sad for you at the loss of Boots.What a great age he was,not many cats live that long and what an honour to you that he died in your arms.
That is a lovely photo.You must be feeling heartbroken but try to think of happy times you had with him and remember he is now at peace.
R.I.P Boots

Boots is a Black Burmese, he was sweet, gentle, talkative and always had to be the center of what was going on. Boots just died of cancer in my arms. He was 2 1/2 months off his 36 (human years) birthday.

I found your article so very touching in its simplicity. You decided to let us know that you had to say goodbye to your friend of eighteen and a half years.

I'm so very sorry for your sadness and soon your loss.

Such a special boy but you will do your best for him in death as you have in life and it seems he had an amazing life.

You will have lots of memories, no cat will take his place but one day a little bundle may come pretty close. Until that time take care, we are all thinking of you.

I am so sorry for you. Although it can be said that 18½ years is more than most cats get, this is poor consolation once the day for that last ride arrives. But it is something we know we all will have to do - comforting an old friend right through to the end. Rest in Peace, Toby - you were loved.

Thank you for sharing your heart-felt story about Toby. May he rest in peace. Please accept our condolences for your loss. You made the right choice; Toby came into this world with dignity and left the same way. Although the loss will be felt for a long time, just know that in time the fond memories will fill the void you now feel.

He was a special cat and a great
friend. Sorry for your loss - and grateful you got the chance to say goodbye.

Colette

18 and 1/2 years is a very long time and I'm so sad for you that it's time to say goodbye to Toby.
You will never get over his loss,it's a bereavement just the same as losing a much loved human member of the family,but with time you will get used to him not being around.
You are doing the kindest thing you can ever do for a pet, which is sparing him the pain of advancing cancer.
When he's gone, try to remember that he is at peace, it will be you suffering from grieving, Toby will not be suffering.
My thoughts are with you and with everyone else who loves Toby.
I do understand how you feel, having lost quite a few much loved cats over the 36 years we've shared our lives.

Thank you for telling us your short but impressive story. I have a vision of Toby in your airplane. He was so close to you, a constant and reliable companion.

I feel his loss. I truly do. It brought a tear to my eye. Thanks for sharing.