Millie BadCat

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From the moment I saw her years and years ago, I knew Millie was the cat for me. She was very small, and the tag on her cage at the Humane Society said that she liked to chase moths, and I thought that made her a knitter’s cat for sure. Turns out she didn’t give a crap about moths, but she was a hell of a mouser, and regularly attempted to make short work of every animal in the neighbourhood.

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It wasn’t at all unusual to have to unhook her from the front windowscreens where she hung, hurling invective at some enormous dog she felt sure she could end if she could just get through the damn window.  She slept on my head every night and went on hungerstrikes when I left town. She liked to put her tail in my bath. Her favourite food was pizza, she was tidier than we were, and she taught all the girls to hang up their coats through the magic of urine… and I didn’t know just how much I loved her until today. She drove me crazy.

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Millie was an old lady by now – in human years she’d be in her nineties, and up until the last few days she’d been having a pretty good run. She still made her rounds every morning to make sure that there were no squirrels that needed threatening, and she continued to raid the compost bin if the lid was left open, fulfilling a deep passion for any food that was not intended for cats.  In the last little bit she’d become very skinny, and seemed to have less energy, and today a visit to the vet for what we thought was something minor became very major indeed, and we said by to our little cat just an hour after a diagnosis so devastating that there was nothing else to do. She was a very, very good cat, and we wouldn’t have wanted to see her suffer for a minute longer.

I’ll get back to knitting and fundraising tomorrow, goodness knows both need doing, but  tonight I think I’ll just have a really good cry for my 3.77lbs of wee beast.

464 thoughts on “Millie BadCat

  1. Oh Steph, I’m so sorry. It’s so hard to say good-bye to our furry friends. A touching tribute. I love the picture with her tail in the bath!

    • Such a pretty kitty, and a lovely tribute! Millie was blessed to have been so loved, and that your love was strong enough & selfless enough to let her go when it was time.

  2. So very sorry to hear this, I’ve always admired her when she’s made an appearance on the blog- she was so pretty!

    Sending love, losing a pet is so hard, but much worse when they’ve been your shadow for so long x

  3. So sorry for your loss. What a great tribute you wrote to Millie, and I know that was hard to do today.

    Until you meet again on the Rainbow Bridge….

  4. I am so, so very sorry. It sounds like she had a wonderful life with you. It’s never easy to let our beloved pets go. Heartfelt sympathy from NYC.

  5. I’m so sorry. I’m glad she had so many quirks; you’ll never run out of stories to tell about her! But then, I think that’s almost always the case with the animals closest to our hearts… we know all the ways that they’re impossibly weird.

  6. What what a great life Millie had and she got to protect your house and yarn from any intruders. Years ago, we had a cat that loved to get in our bathtub after one of us had a bath because it was nice and warm. He would get in there and purr really loud and the sound would amplify. Thanks for bringing back that lovely memory.

  7. I am so very sorry for your loss Stephanie. I give you so much credit for honoring Millie with your post. I lost my cat of 23 years last year and I could not post about it at all. I had her longer than I had been a mom. It gets easier, and I look back with lots of love and fond thoughts now.

  8. My heart goes out to your and your family for your loss. The creap into our hearts, burrow around and leave a cavity when they leave us, don’t they?

  9. So sorry for your loss. We had to put down our dog of 15 years last year and it was the hardest thing. But when they reach that old of an age, it’s a mercy. She’ll be there on the other side, waiting to sleep on your head.

  10. So sorry! I had to do the same back in September for my 15 year old best buddy, who also, by odd coincidence, loved to sleep on my head every night. It’s amazing what holes they leave when they go.

  11. All these years I thought you did not really care for Millie and that she was really just for the girls. I’m so sorry both for my ignorance and especially for your great loss.

  12. You don’t choose cats; they choose you. How lucky that Millie chose you. Millie’s on the other side of Rainbow Bridge (with a giant pizza all her own). She’ll look down on you every now and then to make sure your stash is mouse free. Sending you loads of hugs and light and love.

  13. Condolences to you.

    The animals who grace our lives leave paw prints on our hearts forever, don’t they?

    Very respectful of you to ease Millie’s suffering.

  14. Millie certainly was a singular cat. I know your friends and family will always have a special place in your hearts for her. Now so will the Blog. Thank you for the lovely tribute and photos, especially the one with her tail in the tub.

  15. So glad that she shared her life with you. So sorry that you have to carry on alone. Never easy to lose a special friend.

  16. So Sorry! ♡ She has quite a legacy, immortalized in the blog. Love to all her family members. I know she will be sorely missed.

  17. I’m so sorry for your loss. I understand, as I just had to have my sweet cat Lovey put down on Thursday. It is hard… Take care

  18. Oh Steph, my heart goes out to you. Millie was a member of your family, and now she’s gone. You are in my prayers.

  19. I’m so sorry Millie was a very cool cat. I lost my fur baby in Feb , but she (Millie) will be there waiting at the rainbow bridge. Hugs

  20. Deepest and most sincere sympathy on the passing of Millie. Bless you for adopting her and loving her, and bless her for loving you. May you meet again at the rainbow bridge.
    (This is from a dog person.)

  21. I am so sorry for your loss . My husband and I did the same on Saturday with our own feisty nearly 15 year old girl, it is not an easy thing to do, but it is what is best for them…

  22. Oh, oh, Stephanie. I am so, so, so very sorry. Millie was a complete badass, and she will be missed by the blog, too. Hugs and so much sympathy from afar.

  23. Sad news. So sorry for your loss. It sounds like she had a good, long life with you, with much love. All our critters deserve as much. Cry, and expect to still feel her “sleeping” on your head sometimes. She obviously loved you too.

  24. I am so sorry-now there is a Millie-shaped hole in your lives. We all will miss her.
    My Buddy sits over my shoulder as I type this. His days are surely numbered, but he is oblivious, so we wait. It will be so hard, even though we see it coming.

  25. I’m so sorry to your family for the loss of Millie! Saying goodbye to our beloved pets is the hardest thing about loving them. I’m glad you were able to ease her suffering.

  26. So sorry for your loss; I’ll miss her sadly– a most blog-worthy cat.

    My favorite picture of her was one with her front paws on the edge of the tub, captioned, “Whatcha doin’–takin’ a bath?”

  27. Oh poor Millie and poor you! It is so hard losing a cat you love …
    The only time my stepfather ever cried was when our beloved 18-year-old Siamese died. I still think of him often with great affection, and it’s been well over 30 years (and two years ago I dissolved into tears when I found some of his hairs when cleaning out my mother’s house …).
    Millie will always be part of your family’s life and legends, and what more could a cat want (besides a warm and loving home, which she obviously had)?

  28. We recently had a similar situation with our Nathan who was only 10. Left him for a test, went to bring him home, left with an empty carrier. So glad that Millie was yours and you hers. Many hugs.

  29. I’m so sorry for your loss, but thank you for sharing your heartache with us. Maybe this is why my Mickey has been reminding me since I got home, “Pet me now. You might not get a chance to tomorrow.”

  30. oh, I am so sorry! I am a cat person and the loss of one of our girls is so very difficult. My girls and I send our hugs and sympathy.

  31. I am slave to three felines. I have lost three others over the years. I cry whenever that happens. I also cry for other kitties when they die. I’m crying for yours. I’m sorry for your heartache.

  32. Stephanie,
    I’m so sorry anout Millie’s death. I know it leaves a hole in your heart.
    Margieinmaryland

  33. I’m unlurking to offer my deepest condolences on Millie’s loss. As a lifelong pet owner, I know just how deeply they work their way into our hearts, and that no matter how long we are blessed to have them in our lives, it’s never long enough. Sending virtual hugs!

  34. I am so very sad for you and your family. We just went through this in May with our 13-year-old black Lab. Bailey was wild and crazy and so very loved. It is so hard to say goodbye.

  35. Oh so sorry–the very worst kind of day. You were fortunate to have each other; you must have brought her a lot of happiness, whether she showed it or not (cats often don’t, alas).

  36. So sorry to read of the passing of your beloved cat. She will stay in your hear forever – and be prepared to think you catch a glimpse of her around a corner for quite some time. I think their spirits come back to say a final goodbye and remind us of their love.
    We had to say goodbye to our beautiful 20 year old Birman and still miss her terribly.

  37. I am a Certified Cat Person. I know exactly whereof you speak…having been privileged to have a few versions of Millie-cat in my life (current feline: Pookie, aka “Miss Pooks”, “Missie Poo-poo” or just plain ‘Pooks’). My heart goes out to you…and I send you a hug across the miles.

  38. I”m so sorry for your loss. She had a wonderful life and got to be a knitter’s cat, which is the best kind I have two 5 year old cats and I can’t imagine how I’ll deal with not having them around. You’ve lost a member of the family – don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.

  39. Hugs to you and your family. So hard to say goodbye even when you know it’s the loving thing to do. Such a beautiful girl!

  40. Oh, Stephanie, I add my condolences at the loss of your Millie. I am so sorry for the heartache you feel. The deeper your hurt, the more she was loved.
    I lost my precious Ellie (my avatar) in February to kidney disease. I had had her for over 17 years. She got me through a separation, a divorce, depression and so much more. She took part of my heart with her when she went.
    Hugs to all of you.

  41. Oh, Stephanie, I’m so sorry. I remember Millie stories going way back on this blog, and I’ve always been gleeful over any glimpse you’d give us of your black furry beauty. I can only imagine how difficult it must be for you to lose her, and I hope you do give yourself the time you need to cry and grieve. My thoughts are with you.

  42. Our Bluebell in Texas looked just like your Millie. We loved seeing pictures of your Millie and we know how much you are missing her. Our sympathy.

  43. I’m so sorry for your loss. I’m sure that you did all the right things at all the right times, and eventually you will even believe that. She had a good life with you and she knew she was loved.

  44. oh as soon as I started reading this post I knew. Dear sweet old Millie! I am glad she had many long happy years with you and your family. Hugs and love to you all. <3

  45. My cat was put down in October 2014 after a wonderful run of sixteen years as a member of our family. The day we said goodbye to her, my heart felt broken and my eyes were filled with tears (something that strangely doesn’t happen to me immediately after a human death in the family). I could feel the void she left behind in our home for days afterward. Thankfully, our dog helped in healing some of my heartbreak (although I do realize dogs aren’t for everyone).

    *hugs* I’m so sorry to hear about Millie; from what I gathered from your pictures of her she was a beautiful cat. We here on the internets will miss her along with you.

  46. It hurts so much to say goodbye to our little furry kids. I am so sorry for your loss. Take a few days off from blogging – but if you need to talk, we’re here to listen.
    I think you need some snuggle time with Elliott. Nothing like a baby to heal your heart.
    My sympathies to you and all of Millie ‘s famiky

  47. Losing a beloved pet is so hard and I am weeping just thinking about how sad you must feel. Try to remember the unique things that Millie did to make you laugh or wonder, “How did she think of doing THAT! She was loved and cared for and loved you back….what else do we need. Hugs to you and your family…

  48. There is simply no better friend than our felines. When they go, they leave a hole in our hearts that can never be filled. Their daily rounds, their lioving rituals shape us as better people. When we go to a shelter to adopt, we let the cat choose us and they are never wrong.

    RIP, dear Millie. We will miss you, too.

  49. I’ll weep with you. I had to put my beautiful friend to sleep a year ago and clearly I’m not as over it as I had hoped.

    Tinkerbell was oddly enough about the same size as Millie but a photo negative of her. She was a shaded silver Persian and where Millie turned white, she turned dark gray.

    I honor you for acting to spare her suffering and by that action to take it on yourself. It is the only gift that you can give that is meaningful and damnit it hurts so so much. I wish you peace.

  50. I could have been reading about my Lucy. Her last day was very much the same. I still miss her. She will ALWAYS be the background on my iPad.
    Condolences.

  51. I always mourn for the furry children. Having my sweet Leif (dog) put down was the most gut-wrenching thing I’ve ever done, so I feel your pain. I love cats, but have none because I also love a cat-allergic husband. Love the photos of her, especially the tub pic. May she mouse long and prosper over the rainbow bridge!

  52. I am so sad for your loss. We lost two cats in much the same way, and knowing that they are not suffering does not make their absence any less sad. Grieve, and knit, and come back when you’re ready <3

  53. My sympathies. Millie made lovely appearances in the blog. Her glare was magnificent. I shall miss her…though not as you will.

  54. I’m so sorry for your loss.

    I lost my 18 year old baby in October last year and I still miss her sleeping on my pillow curled around my head. She was a much larger girl than yours — about 10 lbs — but the love is so much larger than their bodies.

  55. So very sorry Steph. I lost my own dear kitty five years ago this month. I like to think of our cats who have left us romping in endless fields of catnip in cat heaven.

  56. Oh, I’m so sorry for your loss. It’s so hard. You don’t know how much you love your furbaby until you have to make a truly horrible decision to spare them pain. They leave a very very large hole in your heart. I’m crying for Millie, and for you, and everyone that loved her. She was loved and cared for and I’m sure she loved you, too. Hugs and light and love and I’m so, so very sorry.

  57. I’m sure our very good cats Boris and Merlin are showing her ropes in cat heaven. Where the sound of the can opener makes them all sing.
    Sorry for your loss my dear. It’s never easy but the memories are sweet.

  58. Oh what a beauty! I have an aging purr baby who won’t be with me much longer. He’s had a good long run, but oh how I will miss him.

  59. Very sorry for your loss of sweet Millie. It always hurts to lose à 4-legged family member. Thinking of you and sending condolences. ❤

  60. Sad for the loss of your little beastie.
    Directions at the bottom of Leave-a-Reply say ‘touch the cat’. Ironic given the story of the cat is the thing has touched us all.

  61. So sorry to read of the loss of your quirky girl cat. It’s always a horrible wrench to say goodbye. Thinking of you and your family.

  62. Love to you, yours and to Millie. My cats always love me more when I’m knitting. Wonderful little things they are.

  63. My studio companion Winston, a marmalade, striped cat who was supposed to be a barn cat (that didn’t last long), was born in a basket in my closet fifteen years ago, and this weekend I thought he was in his last days. He’s better now, but I know it’s just a matter of time, probably not very much time. I’m watching carefully to try to catch that moment when his life ceases to be a joy to him so we can help him out of it with mercy and love. It’s all we can do, as the lovers and guardians of our non-human family members. Sigh. We can, however, be glad to have given them good lives and glad too for all they gave us. I’m sorry you’ve lost your Millie.

  64. Might be time to get out Elliot’s rainbow booties in tribute. “Gone from your life but never absent from your heart.” Hugs to you and the fam.

  65. Years ago, as a beloved dog was escorted to the Rainbow Bridge, my favorite vet told me that if he didn’t believe that all of his pets would be waiting in Heaven, he wouldn’t much care whether he went there.
    I’m a nonbeliever, but I totally understood.

    Cherish your memories of Millie; when the time is right, she’ll send you your next furbaby.

  66. I’m so sorry. I lost my dog to cancer on October 7th. Your cat sounds like a very good cat and she was beautiful. My deepest sympathies.

  67. Today, before I saw your post, I had a long chat with a dear pet who I lost 6 months ago. They’ll always be with us, and i hope they remember how much we love them.

  68. I’m so so sorry for your loss. She was a beautiful beautiful girl. It sounds like she was full of sass. (How can so much personality fit into such a tiny body? I’ve never understood, and I’ve lived with many cats.)

    Condolences to you and your whole family.

  69. So sorry for your loss. She was a lovely beauty. Such a wonderful memorial you have written for her. Perfectly expresses how m check you love her.

  70. I am so sorry for your loss! She looks like a sweet girl and a wonderful cat – it is terrible losing a loved pet. I’ve had to do the same, and it is devastating. Hugs!

  71. I am so sorry for your pain. Remember the good times, the quirkiness, and the funny stories. Let go of the hard times at the end. The love lives on.

  72. It is always so hard to say goodbye to a furkid. Hope she’s feeling more spry and chasing those mice, over on the other side. My Ravatar black cat Midnight and her sister Shadow will be sure to show her the best spots for sunbaths.

  73. Oh, Steph, I am so very sorry for your loss! Our furbabies are never with us long enough, but the pain when we lose them is the price we pay for the joy (and very definitely the laughter) they bring to our lives.

  74. It’s so hard to lose our animal pals. Millie lived long and well. We give them the best we can & let them go. Sorry Stephanie

  75. oh i hate those kitty shaped holes in our hearts when they go. i hope you don’t mind if i cry with you. big hugs, if you want them.

  76. I am so sorry. Very much thinking of you and your family now, and in the months to come as you adjust to her being gone.

  77. Steph, I’m so sorry for your loss. I know everyone who knew her will miss her — even The Blog. Take time to grieve (and to find all the cat toys under the davenport, behind the fridge, etc.). The World’s Greatest Model for Knitted Flat Things will always have a place in your heart and your memories.

  78. I’m so sorry Steph! I lost my own sweet little pain in the arse, Mouser, back in December. It was so hard to get used to him not being there to pester me.
    Just remember that you gave her a much better and longer life than she might have had otherwise.

  79. Tears for you missing your furry girl. I’m nursing an aging dog (he’ll turn 17 July 11 if he keeps waking up). He doesn’t seem sad or in pain – other than stiffness getting up in the morning or laying down again – just slowing down every day. It is so hard to say goodbye. Consider yourself hugged. And may the squirrels forever be chased by her memory!

  80. They take a lot of love with them when they go. Daily love that you didn’t know was there until it’s gone. I share your pain and am sad for you.

  81. Love hurts but I’m sure you’ll agree that “‘Tis better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all.” Pets work their way into our hearts and leave such paw prints that the effects of their deaths are the same as those of a family member or dear friend.

    Millie was fortunate to have someone able to help her avoid suffering. Perhaps someday all humans who want it can be afforded the same graceful end.

  82. My papa lost his cat only a couple of days ago as well. So desperately heartbreaking. We must try to celebrate the joy they bring – as you have done with this post.

    Love and light

    Meghan

  83. Your house must be full of heavy hearts tonight. As a fellow pet lover, I am sorry to hear of her passing and this household thinks of all of you tonight. If only we could have immortality, for our pets…

  84. I am so sorry for the loss of your friend. I also have a BadCat who ruins every day of my life, but she’s really going to ruin it when she goes. <3

  85. Stephanie I am so very sorry for your loss. I loved seeing her on the blog (maybe more than the two legged creatures that inhabit your world).

    They take a piece of us with them when they go.

  86. They put their paw prints on our hearts and fur every where else. Millie sounds like a corker. I’m sorry she’s gone.❤️❤️❤️❤️

  87. I loved whenever Millie made an appearance on the blog;
    she always struck me as the quintessential cat. Having lost my own (rib) warmer of many years in a similar fashion recently, I knew from the moment I saw the title where your post was going and cried all the way through. I’m so sorry for you and your family and hope you can find solace in knowing the last thing you did for her was the utmost of compassion.

  88. I’m so sorry about your sweet Millie. We’re longtime cat people, and I know how it feels to lose one. The fact that she’ll always live in your heart doesn’t mean you won’t feel her loss every day for a long time. You and she were lucky to have known each other.

  89. I’m very, very sorry for your loss – losing a pet is always hard, especially when they’ve been part of the family for so many years!

  90. Sorry to hear of your loss of Millie. Our Bad Cat is the one kicking the knitting instruction sheet to shreds because the paper gets more attention. Bye Millie. Will miss bits and pieces of you on YH’s blog photos.

  91. So so sorry. We have lost 4 cats in our married life and they all left a unique shaped hole. That picture could be our Domino, a long haired black moggie. He would dangle his tail in the bath. He loved to roll on the warm tub after the bath and often got wet when he misjudged the drain speed.

  92. I am so, so sorry. She was clearly loved and loving, and that makes it harder. My thoughts are with all of you, including Millie.

  93. My sympathy to you and yours. losing a beloved pet is hard, especially one that has so much personality. it’s 12 years since we lost our big ginger boy Max to kidney failure and i still miss him.

  94. I’m so sorry for your loss – what a beautiful baby ❤️ We lost our Lena a little more than a year ago, I know how you feel.

  95. Here’s another batch of hugs and sympathy for your loss heading to you from Omaha. Our fur babies really are complicated and annoying, delightful, funny, affectionate, amazing friends. Losing a longtime kitty is really, really hard. She was lucky to have you, and the good memories will outlast the hurt. Still. *hugs*

  96. I’m sorry about Millie. My darling Dante looked a lot like Millie and used to put her tail in the tub too. It is just as hard to lose a fur-person.

  97. My sympathy on your loss – I would be devastated if I lost my furry friend and I would miss scraping all that ginger fluff off my knitting, too.

  98. Since I had my own place, there has always been cats in my home. And every time one died, I cried. When you live together, sleep together, you become part of each other.
    And when one dies,part of the other dies too.
    Because of your blog, I too knew Millie and loved her. So even in The Netherlands she is remembered.

  99. So sorry to hear your sad news. Losing a pet is always difficult, especially as they have no input as to their care or the outcome.

  100. Oh Stephanie, I’m so very sorry. We had to do the same for our beautiful old dog Kyah 12 years ago and I still tear up every time I think about it. Knowing that you have done the right thing doesn’t make it any less painful.

  101. So sorry for your loss. Millie will be missed, but it sounds like you did the only thing that could be done for her. May she rest in peace.

    <3

  102. So very sorry for your loss <3 I also had to say goodbye to one of my cats this spring, what the vet and I had thought to be an irritated bowel turned out to be cancer… and two others are getting very elderly and have kidney problems. But part of loving them is knowing when you need to let go and not allowing any suffering into their lives if you can prevent it. And I'm sure Millie's tiny ghost will continue to haunt the neighbourhood squirrels for generations to come!

  103. I’ve been there too, it’s hard to say goodbye to our furry family, but sometimes we have to make that choice. Mine was made for Chloe who was lovely and very much my cat, but like your kitty had to be let go. Hugs

  104. I’m sorry for your loss of Millie. I know how very difficult it is to say goodbye to a beloved pet. I secretly thought mine was a knitter’s cat too as she never played with my yarn or needles… she just loved to sit on my lap while I knit. Hugs Stephanie.

  105. More hugs and love coming your way, Steph. What a hard day. Rotten to have such an out-of-the-blue shock, and not enough time to process it all. Lots of care and support from all your real-even-though-we’ve-never-met internet friends. Vale Millie; you were awesome, and very entertaining for the blog.

  106. My condolences. Our pets are family and their loss can be harder than any other since they are the constant in our lives. Take solace in the fact that she led a long and full life.

  107. Those little lives leave great big holes, don’t they?
    We have a Christmas tree ornament to represent each of the pets who’ve lived with us. It promotes happy memories and telling of tales as we trim the tree.
    But for now, a great big cry and a slug of whisky is what’s really called for.

  108. So very, very sorry. Even when it’s the right thing so they don’t suffer anymore, it still just sucks. Sending hugs.

  109. I’m so sorry for your loss. We had to say goodbye to our oldest cat just last week. Hugs and sympathy to you and your family.

  110. They never live long enough, do they? You gave her the best life she could have had–so sorry she couldn’t stay forever.

  111. I’m sorry to hear this, and your post brought tears to my eyes. At the end of January, I lost my cat of 13 years – the only constant thing in my life during two university degrees and years of moving every 6 months. He was my rock. I miss him.
    Have a good cry. I’m still crying for my Hermes.

  112. Devastating! So sorry to hear. Feel your pain and loss. Still catch myself looking for my Andy after 4 years.

  113. I am sorry for your loss! I abruptly lost my first cat and I also didn’t realize how much I adored her until she was gone. I hope you are able to take the time you need to grieve. She reminds me of my Lou so much that I am tearing up. Will keep you in my thoughts.

  114. Very sorry about Millie! I lost my old girl three weeks ago, and one of my middle-aged girls has a cancer diagnosis and we’re watching her to know when it’s time. They’re with us for so much of our lives that it’s amazing to have them be gone.

  115. I am sorry for your loss. We have had to make that very hard decision several times; it never gets easier. But our pets count on us to be sure that they have all the food and comfort that they need, and you made the choice that you needed to. It sounds as though she lived a good life.

    Somehow, each time we lost a cat another one, ot two, have turned up in our lives, unbidden. And each time we have said “too soon”, and yet it has turned out that they showed up just when we needed them. Millie was obviously there, right when you needed her; I am so sorry that she is gone.

  116. Many hugs — I went through that type of loss twice myself, and they take pieces of you with them when they go. They’re far superior beasts to humans, I think.

  117. Aww… Rats. My heart is with you. My hubby and I have said good-bye to several furry friends over the years as they crossed the bridge and it is so hard. I have tears running down my face because I know how much you are hurting. Love ya!

  118. Like everyone else, I am so deeply sorry for your loss. We lost our 17-year-old couch potato cat in November. Sending blessings & virtual hugs!

  119. Steph, You just put me back into cry-mode. It’s been a month since I lost my fur-baby. I’m 67 years old, and I’ve had a cat for 61 of those years. A ‘new normal’ is going to take time. Be kind to yourself. That’s the only advice I can give.

  120. So sorry. I hope that Millie has met my Gandalf the Grey, who passed into the next kitty realm last week. I miss him terribly.

  121. So sorry. It is so very devastating when we lose a pet. I’ve lived through it four times and I sometimes think, when I’m curled in bed crying, if it’s worth it. Then less than a week later I get a new animal to love. I can’t imagine life without one. Their unconditional love and devotion is like nothing else. So have a good cry and you have lots of sweet memories for the future.

  122. Hubby is a vet. Works for a zoo. We have a thousand pets of our own. And we cry every time one of them dies.it is always sad to lose a friend, whatever the species.. But we try to remember lessons learned from each of their lives. You have my sympathy for your loss. Millie sounds as tho she was a fabulous friend.

  123. That was a lovely tribute to an obviously above-average kat. My kat, too, sleeps on my head at night. Just this morning I again had to pick out the beginnings of her masterful dreads. Violet is an excellent stylist, but dreads aren’t really my thing. My deepest condolences to you on your loss. Our small companions are an enormous part of our lives.

  124. It bites to have to say goodbye to a pet. The pets I have had have been such blessings and I have actually learned things just from having pets. I love rescuing an animal and knowing that I will give that pet a great life. But, I have yet to figure out what I am supposed to learn when I lose a pet. I think we all agree here on the blog that we empathize greatly with you at this time. Maybe that is the lesson we learn. How to be more caring people.

  125. My heart is aching with yours. Our furry friends give us so much and leave such a hole in our hearts. Hugs to you, Stephanie. I’ve had many furkids (love that title) over the years but my last, Jasper, was my most precious – he loved to sit on my lap and he never bothered my knitting unless I was using straight needles. Then he wanted to play with the ends, apparently since I was only using the tips. Hence the beginning of my move to only circular needles. How much love we gain in our lives, no matter how crazy they can make us.

  126. There are so many thing to say. I love and adore cats. We’ve had to put down three, one just three weeks ago that really wasn’t “our” cat, just a stray that we loved and fed. When we realized he was sick, off to the vet we went, but after two weeks and much money, we had to give up on the poor baby who really never had a home and the love of people. A bed to sleep on and unlimited love and petting. Your cat had all that and I’m deeply sorry for the loss of her. I hope you find it in your heart to take another one in. There are so many in need. Peace to you.

  127. I’m sorry for your loss. I’ve been owned by cats for 50 years and have mourned the loss of every one of them. They each hold a special place in your heart.

  128. Stephanie, so sorry to hear about Millie. Our pets may be small but they leave a huge hole in our hearts when they’re gone.

  129. I’m so sad for you and so sorry for your loss. Our pets are family and they leave such a hole in our hearts when they are gone. The hardest thing about being a pet mommy is knowing when to let them go. You did good. It’s easier to keep them going so you don’t suffer — but you did right by making sure she didn’t. Take care of yourself today.

  130. I’m 89 years old and lost many wonderful companions. I have always grieved for them but I know they wanted me to find a new friend to care and love again. Hugs.

  131. Putting down a pet is so difficult. I commend you for not letting her suffer. Letting go can be so hard. I’m so sorry for your loss.

  132. Oh, Stephanie, my heart is breaking for you. Many of us have been in the very difficult situation of having to let a pet go, and it never gets easier. Energy like Millie’s can not be contained, so rest assured knowing it is still running rampant in the universe, nurtured by the love and affection of her human kin. I wish your family peace and comfort in that knowledge.

  133. She looks a lot like my Zelda that we had to say goodbye to this past November. So sorry for your loss — they really take a piece of your heart with them.

  134. So sorry your sweet little friend is gone. She was a beauty, and I love that she hung her tail in your bath water. Just checking to make sure the temperature of the water was suitable for her mistress no doubt. Sending you warm hugs from me and kitty purrs from our own crazy fur baby.

  135. Stephanie, I am so very, very sorry for your loss. Our furry family is so precious and irreplaceable, and they leave such a hole in our hearts for a while when they go. Much love.

  136. Stephanie, I am so sorry! I recently had to make the decision to say good-bye to my very sick cat, so I know the pain you are feeling. How can the right thing for our pets be so painful for us? The grief is real. don’t let anyone dismiss it by telling you Millie was “just” a cat.

  137. I’m so sorry to read of Millie’s passing. I loved seeing her pop up on your blog. Our moose-sized version of Millie, Jett, passed away a couple of years ago. He was a big, snuggly ball of black fur & trouble & I still miss him very much.

  138. I’m so sorry for your loss. Your post brought tears to my eyes. It was a beautiful tribute. I know how much it hurts to lose a fur baby, especially one who has been with us for a long time… I’m sending prayers and hugs your way!

  139. Oh Steph, I am so sorry. My own black cat loves to hang out on the tub with his tail in the water (but he’s about twice Millie’s size.) It’s so hard to lose a friend :/

  140. Ah, dear Stephanie and the rest of the Pearl-McFee clan,

    I am so sorry for the loss of your dear Millie. I hope that the knowledge that you loved her well in this life, AND that this same love and compassion helped you help her leave it gives you some small comfort. My thoughts are with you all

  141. I am so sorry for your loss. Those annoying critters are good at stealthily make a home in our hearts, which when they leave, is never quite the same.

  142. Our wee beasties are truly beloved family members, aren’t they… Thank you for sharing your memories of Millie with us.

  143. So sorry for your loss Stephanie, but what a wonderful tribute to her… I am sure she is keeping all our creatures in line on the other side of the Rainbow Bridge, until you meet up again…
    May the good memories of her help you through the tough times….

  144. Condolences, dear Stephanie. It is never easy to lose a beloved pet (even one that makes us crazy!). It always seems a bit more sad when we have them grow old with us.

  145. Oh Steph, I am so sorry for all of you. Millie was an amazing character and she will be sorely missed by many. I’m so glad she was able to have such a wonderful life with you.

  146. So devastating to lose a dear companion animal under any circumstance but especially difficult when its without warning. My heart goes out to you having been through a similar situation with our dear Cacou. Sending you prayers of comfort.

    “I love cats because I enjoy my home; and little by little, they become its visible soul.” ― Jean Cocteau

  147. I’m so sorry for your loss. We lost one of ours a couple months ago, and it’s so hard. It sounds like Millie had a great life with you, which is all you can really ask for.

  148. I feel for you Steph. I will never understand how these furry beasts come into our lives for such a short time and manage to curl up in a corner of our heart forever. I have always had dogs and this is my first time living with a cat at 54. I am allergic to cats, thought I didn’t much care for them. They are a bit haughty, aren’t they? But this little calico cat that was here when I arrived, a former feral cat at that, has snuck into the middle of my heart (and does not trigger my allergies much for some reason). Callie also sleeps around my head (or on my hip if I’m on my side) and demands her breakfast in the morning. We think she is about fifteen now and she is getting thin and has no patience for the dogs anymore, so we keep them out of the bedroom during the day to give her some peace. We know our time with her is going to come to an end in the near future. So what, if sometimes I get up a little late and stay in bed to snuggle with Callie for a while longer. I think , I’ll do that tomorrow morning in memory of Millie.

  149. I am so sorry for your loss; one of the few times we exchanged comments was discussing what breed she might have been, as she strongly resembled my Old Man Cat (a Turkish Angora).

    I recently lost him as well, so the empathy is especially keen.

    Good thoughts out to you and your family.

  150. Thanks for giving Millie such a great home. One of my favorite posts ever is one from about 12+/- years ago, when a cat followed you into the bath. “Are we alone yet?”

    Goodbye, Millie

  151. I’m so sorry – Millie appears to have had a very good life, and I know you will all miss her distinct personality.

  152. Virtual hugs across the miles– it’s always hard to lose a fur-baby, especially when it feels sudden and unexpected. I see her crossing the Rainbow Bridge, being greeting my MY angel cats, Ching-Ching, Peanut Butter, Mama Cat, Tom Tom, Lisa Marie and saying “let me tell you about the BEST human EVER!!

  153. I am so sorry that you had to say goodbye to your lovely kitty. She picked the perfect family to live with; enjoying much love and laughter. Millie will live on in the Blog as we all remember her antics…..and her famous “stink eye” when you misbehaved.

  154. Steph,
    Thank you for writing this. Our cat of 8 years ran away last week and I’m feeling a fairly heartbroken even though I yelled at him a lot when he was around. I’m feeling less alone reading your words today. I’m really sorry for your loss.

  155. So sorry to hear about your beloved cat. We had a cat that we had had for a very long time too and I know how hard it is to say goodbye. I hope your family and knitting will get you through.

  156. So sorry for your loss. It’s alway very detressing when our furry friends leave us. I have lost 5 since my youth and consider an act of love to put them to sleep . sending love

  157. So sorry to hear about Millie. I know how difficult it was for me when I had to put my cat to sleep last summer. But it was for the best for him. Thanks for sharing all the great stories about her.

  158. I’m so, so sorry for your loss. She sounds like a one of a kind kitty. Sending so much love to you and your family right now. I know firsthand how devastating it is to get a sudden, horrible diagnosis for a beloved family pet. <3 Rest in peace, pretty Millie.

  159. Oh Stephanie I’m so sorry. Our pets are so special and it hurts to lose them. You did the right thing but it still hurts.

  160. They are only little but they carve a big place in our hearts and when they go a huge hole is left behind. It will take time to heal over. I’ve parted with several furry family members and I know the heartache. You gave her a great life, loved her deeply and memorialized her wonderfully.

  161. So sorry to hear this. We never realise how much of a hole they leave in our lives until they are gone. Sending hugs and good thoughts your way.

  162. Stephanie, I’m so sorry. I’m sure it was a difficult but necessary decision. Thank you for having the courage to do what had to be done. May you see her again on the Rainbow Bridge. RIP, sweet Millie

  163. Oh, sweetie, sending you sympathy. It’s so hard to say goodbye to our furbabies.
    (Halo is giving me stink-eye just now because after reading this I had to go seek her out and give her a good squeeze and too many smooches, thus waking her from what looked like a very good nap.)

  164. Such a hard time. We were faced with a similar decision with our lovely dog last autumn after we’d just delivered our youngest human off to college.

    Big, big hugs.

  165. I’m so sorry you had to say goodbye to your kitty. The kindest thing to do is to end their suffering and you know when it’s the right time, but it is so hard. We’ve had to put 3 dogs and 2 cats down and I miss all but 1 dog (long story) every day.

  166. Oh Stephanie, Joe and everyone else who loved Millie. I am so sorry to read this. It is never easy to say “good-bye” to a little furball that has stolen our hearts. She was a good cat, and far more fierce than her little size would indicate. In the words of Jim Butcher, she was “Small, but fierce!” My Pixel and I send much love and hugs.

  167. I’m so sorry for your loss. They become members of the family (or in some cases, the family’s feline overlord). My little sister was convinced the cat was her brother until she was at least five years old. They leave their pointy little footprints on our hearts; some of them for long after they have to leave us. Millie was a very good cat.

  168. So sorry for your loss. They are such a part of our lives. She looks like the best cat. Hugs to you and your family.

  169. I am so, so sorry. Pets may be small, but they have a large impact on our lives and families. I lost my Heidi, a German Shepherd, over five years ago, and I still miss her, especially when I tap my toothbrush on the sink. She would mistake it for someone knocking and would run, barking, toward the door. Take all the time you need to grieve.

  170. I’m so very sorry for your lose. She was a beautiful cat with what seems to have been a one-of-a-kind personality! They become so much a part of our families and our hearts, don’t they? My best to you all.

  171. A lovely tribute to a beautiful furry friend. Our beloved animals are really a big part of who we are and how we live our lives. You and your family are all in our thoughts and of course sweet Millie too.

  172. You have my sympathy — we had to put our cat of 11 years down awhile back, and I don’t think I’ve cried that hard since I was 11 and the family dog. It is truly a sad day when we lose a Pet. 🙁

  173. I’m so sorry for your loss, as I started to well up when reading Millie was…. It’s been several years since losing our girls (sisters from the same litter who were 21 and 22 when they passed) and there’s not a day I don’t miss my little kids in fur coats. Sending hugs to all from afar; she was blessed for her time with you and yours.

  174. Oh, I’m so sorry. My own Smokey Joe is at the oncologist today for CT scans to plan his radiation for soft tissue sarcoma.

  175. We’re watching our very robust cat, who used to get on top of 10 foot gate within our side fence, no longer able to jump. We fear the end is near, but we still love him. and he’s very responsive. (Doesn’t seem to care about his new disability.) aww….. sorry for your loss.

  176. The BadCats are the best and most interesting (if a mite irritating when you discover someone has peed on your favorite jacket). Sympathies!

  177. I’m so very sorry. We just said goodbye to our sweet and perfect kitty Zyla a couple of weeks ago. It was a similar situation, she just kept getting thinner. I miss her terribly, as I know you will Millie. What a privilege to love such sweet little creatures, and what a heartache when we have to let them go.

  178. So sorry to hear the news about your beloved cat.
    Knit on through all crises.
    Best wishes for good riding weather over the Canada Day weekend.
    LisaRR

  179. My first introduction to Millie was that pic of her with her tail in your bath. Obviously a great cat. What I’m trying to figure out now is – who would play her in the movie? I’m thinking Susan Sarandon would do a good job. Possibly Bette Davis, though maybe she’s too historic for a modern cat.
    (PS; verification is: click or touch the cat)

  180. Aww… I’m so sorry for you. The pets touch our hearts in so many different ways. I’m glad you had so many good years with her.

  181. Millie sounds like she was an amazing cat, and well loved.

    When we make the kind and loving decision to hold our furbabies in our arms as they leave this world, it’s a devastating loss, but you will recover. She left her paw prints on your heart, and took a piece of it with her.

    My sincere condolences on the loss of your beloved family member.

  182. That is so hard, we’ve all been thru it; the thing to remember is you did what was best for her. You’ll still miss her forever, but sounds like it was time to say goodbye.

  183. Over 330 comments, which I just can’t read, tells us a lot about the compassion of knitters for our furry companions. I am very sorry for your loss. I hope you will, when the time comes & you can even think about it, consider giving another shelter animal a new home. Hugs & headbonks to all.

  184. Terrible news. I’m so very sorry. You didn’t mention her much, and when you did you tended to complain about her, but we all knew you didn’t mean it. I’m glad she didn’t seem to suffer for long.

  185. Losing a pet is as hard as losing a family member, because they are family. My sincere condolences to you as you grieve the loss of Millie.

  186. I am so sorry for your loss. It is such a difficult decision to make but also the kindest in the long run. hugs to you. Be gentle to yourself.

  187. I am so very sorry about Millie. Losing a much-loved pet is so very hard; I still cry about the dog of my heart that I lost six years ago. We the Blog will miss her appearances in your blog as well. Take care.

  188. Oh no, I am so sorry! I know exactly how you feel – I’ve been nursing my 15 year old cat through some major kidney issues for the last 8 months, and while he’s been doing surprisingly well, I know it’s almost time. I’m so sorry for your loss!

  189. My heart truly breaks for you. I know that you are not religious but you and your family will be in my prayers. I have been where you are right now and it is awful.
    It wants me to touch the pencil and I want to touch the cat picture. I will touch the stupid pencil and then go pet my actual cat (who yowled to come in for a snack as I was typing this because she is a spectacularly unsuccessful hunter of critters in our yard) because our fur babies are just never with us long enough.
    Peace to you and the rest of Millie’s circle of loving humans.

  190. So very sorry.

    “Sometimes losing a pet is more painful than losing a human because in the case of the pet, you were not pretending to love it.”
    ― Amy Sedaris, Simple Times: Crafts for Poor People

    I spent extra time this morning with my less than cuddle-able Rob (the cat from hell). He’s been such a challenge that when he allows me to just touch him, I get flutters. Love-Hate relationship on both sides, but mostly love him dearly. Again so sorry.

  191. So, so sorry, but it sounds like she had a good life. Always a hard day for a pet owner.

    I’ll give Mouse, Sam, and Leo (aka, Mousella, Samantha Jane, and Napoleon) hugs today, and not push them away even as they try to catch the circular cable, try to crawl between my knitting and me, or insist on settling in when I need to be able to move around to use the swift.

  192. I am so sorry. It is very hard to lose anyone, let alone a family member like a cat. My dog has been gone for many years but her memory lives on in favorite family memories and pictures.

  193. Millie the beautiful was probably the only creature who ever crossed your path that you didn’t teach how to knit. Still, I’m sure her fur is knitted into a good many of your projects. I speak from experience–and send hugs because I know the pain (and love) of which you speak.

  194. Fairfarren, dearest Millie.

    Sincere sympathy, virtual hugs and complete understanding to all who loved, and were loved by, her.

  195. So sorry for your loss. We’ve lost beloved cats over the years, and it’s never easy. Good advice from our vet- plant a rosebush or other beautiful flowering plant, using kitty’s ashes in the soil. Then kitty “comes back” every year as the plant blooms.

  196. I am so sorry for the loss of your Millie. She sounds like one of a kind, as all furkids are. Peace and hugs coming your way.

  197. I’m so sorry for you and Joe. We have a 20-year old cat (she’ll be 21 in November if she makes it until then). Grieve for her as you need to. Wishing you peace.

  198. May I say how truly sorry I am for you and your family. Saying goodbye is hard no matter what. And when it is with almost no warning, it is even harder. Condolences to you and your family. I know it is hard to miss them so.

    Several years ago when my beloved dog passed, we buried her in the yard and planted roses over her grave. Every year when they start blooming, it’s like she’s saying hello. And lately I imagine the large bouquets those roses are producing are her indomitable spirit spurring them on!

  199. So sorry for your loss. Sending you hugs and assurance that she is at the bridge with so many of the ones that we have all loved waiting for us to reunite someday. Until them may she chase the biggest dog, feast on feast on pizza and always have a warm spot to sleep.

  200. A hard day for sure but you gave her the very best gifts of all – love enough to make her part of your family and love enough to let her go when it was time. Sympathy and tears are flying your way.

  201. I am so happy that your Millie got to live such a life full of love. As much as we love them, that is how much it hurts when they have to go. Thank you for providing her with a safe, loving home.

  202. I am so sorry for your loss. You paid her a very great compliment by honouring her need to leave you now.

  203. I’m so sorry for you and your family. Those furballs become such an important part of our families. Thanks for sharing her with us. Much love.

  204. Spencer was my good cat and I cried buckets after I said goodby. I’m so glad to have known him. Sounds like you feel the same way about Millie.

  205. Terribly terribly sorry for your loss – I’m glad you had a fine cat, with a fine name. Thank you so much for not letting her suffer – wholeheartedly unselfish.

    Here’s to fine cats everywhere.

  206. It so amazing how our fur babies take up so much room in our hearts. Until you meet again, dear Millie is chasing those wee mousies on the other side of the Rainbow Bridge.

  207. I’m so sorry, Steph… I’m now going to have a snuggle with a few Badcats of my own, in honour of Millie.

    xoxo CGF

  208. No amount of time will ever erase the memory of a good cat, and no amount of tape will ever remove their fur from your couch.
    RIP Millie.

  209. It’s impossible to comprehend how much space our furry friends occupy in our homes and in our hearts…until they are no longer there. I am so sorry for your empty space. May it soon be filled with lovely memories of the wonderful life Millie shared with you.

  210. i am so sorry, steph – our fur babies are such huge parts of our family. she’ll be waiting for you at the rainbow bridge!

  211. Sorry to learn of Millie’s passing. Maybe she’s playing with my recently deceased kitty, Isabelle, who we all miss every day. It’s their attitude that make cats so wonderful to live with, isn’t it?

  212. I am so very sorry to see Miller go. My own Fur Kitty (his name was Furball – the result of being named by a 12-year-old boy) has been gone nearly 3 years now. There is a new kitty about the house, but sometimes I still miss him desperately. Hugs to you.

  213. My heart goes out to you and your family. I’m glad she had a great home and lived such a happy life. I hope all your happy memories help you through the grief.

  214. sorry for your loss. Millie certainly was a beautiful cat and obviously much loved. Thank goodness knitting is calming and healing.

  215. I’m so very sorry for the loss of your Millie. My husband and I have seven rescue cats, and they really do become part of the family. I remember reading the post where Millie had her tail in the bath and cracking up laughing…it was just so very cat(titude). I hope eventually your memories will bring you comfort. In the meantime, hang in there.

  216. I’m so sorry for your loss. Pets add so much to our lives. You were kind to keep her from suffering. Take care.

  217. She was a magnificent looking cat. You’ll treasure those photos, especially the tail dip. 🙂 I too, have unhooked many cats from screen doors. The things we put up with. (Thank you for the, um, rabbit (?) on the doorstep.) And so on.
    I have also cared for aging pets and witnessed them go through the last part of life, getting skinny and crankier. They don’t care or worry; they just walk along enjoying some sunshine and belly rubs, right to the end. Millie was lucky to live with you.

  218. I’m so sorry to hear about Millie. Don’t you wish they lived longer than we do? Saying goodbye is so hard, but saying hello is so sweet.

  219. I am so sorry for your loss. We lost our house bunny yesterday and although we have the hustle bustle of things that need to get done, we all feel we need to take a day for our lovely Percy who made our life so much better. Peace.

  220. Such a sad day – you don’t know how much they entwine themselves into your life until they are not there any more. Many condolences on the passing of your wonderful Millie-badcat.

  221. Losing a fur-child is so devastating. They’re with us such a short time, yet fill such an enormous place in our lives and our hearts. You have my utmost sympathy during this time of sadness. Hugs.

  222. *hugs* I’m sorry to hear about Millie.

    Have to say, she reminds me of our Queen Sweetheart, looks-wise. Sweetie may not have been black like your Millie, but lordy, she had the same ruff as Millie, loved bossing her ‘slaves’ (us) and her kittens around. She was an indoor/outdoor kitty who adopted us and brought us her kittens to raise and keep before she decided to come in every so often during the spring/summer and stay inside during the winter. She passed on this past winter, and we miss her still. Mom’s said she’s sensed her spirit and our black kitty Sam checking in on us every so often.

  223. I always looked forward to seeing Millie sitting on a shawl blocking, looking like the Queen of Sheba – “You may draw my bath after serving dinner. Are you going to stare all evening? I said dismissed!” Lots of love to you Steph

  224. *hugs* I’m so sorry for your loss. I still think fondly of and miss two family pets we lost very abruptly. They will be on my mind today, as will you.

  225. I feel your pain and send hugs your way. My little ‘Jazzy’ came into my life 3 years ago, and life has not been the same since. Already 2 years old, she had many ingrained habits, including wanting to sit on my chest while I knit. I have had to learn adaptive skills! She makes life interesting now that I’m retired and I can’t imagine when she will leave me as your Millie has. Take time to grieve this major loss in your life.

  226. I am so so sorry for your loss of Millie. She was a most unique beautiful looking feline who I can imagine had the personality to match her beauty.Our beloved Siamese, cat, Ping, was with us for over 23 years and has been gone for almost as long. I still really miss her! She once ate the back out of a beautiful Italian made knitted sweater that my husband bought for me, but she was still loved!

  227. that has to be one of the hardest things in the world because they can’t tell us how they are feeling nor can we explain what we are doing. Those little furry creatures steal our hearts even when we don’t know it. I am so sorry you have lost Millie, but I know that has opened a place in your home for another creature someday who needs you.

  228. I am always saddened when one of our familiars crosses over. For such small bits of livingness, they take up such a large portion of our hearts. Anyone who sleeps on your head all their life will certainly leave a hole. Thank you for loving her; they never leave our hearts even though they no longer leave us hairballs.

  229. I am very sorry for the passing of your lovely kitty.

    however I cannot stop thinking that many a squirrel, bird and little mouse as well as all sorts of little creatures may breathe a sigh of relief for not being maimed…

  230. Stephanie, I am so very, very sorry. So hard to lose a furry family member, but suddenly is so much harder. No time to say good bye properly. Her spirit will stay with you and if you think that you see her out of the corner of your eye as she disappears around a corner..believe it, she is there with you. It doesn’t get easier but one day the “missing her” will become less hard.

    Above all, remember that there was nothing you could have done to prevent this…nothing.

  231. I am so very sorry for your loss.I am sitting here bawling for your lost little furbaby, just like I do when I lose one of my own. Now,of course, one of the options to click to prove I am human is a picture of a cat. Technology can be so cruel.

  232. Your Millie cat sounds a lot like my Charley cat, who also liked a nice bath and charging at windows. Much sympathy for your loss, and I think I might go have a nice cry of my own

  233. I am very sorry for your loss of Millie. It is a very hard thing to get your mind around – every time you see something out of the corner of your eye, you will look for the cat and it will be a gut punch all over again. I have a gaggle of elderly cats myself – the result of falling in love with a whole litter of kittens that we bottle fed. We had to say goodbye to one of our little beauties in March and another is ill. It is a heartbreaking time of life and so unfair that their lifespans are so much shorter than our own. Still, I wouldn’t trade these last 14 years of kitty love for anything.

  234. Nothing compares to the loss of someone close to our hearts and part of our everyday lives.

    Thanks for sharing Millie’s personality with us. Condolences to you and all who loved her.

  235. I am so sorry to hear of Millie’s passing. They fill our lives and homes with so much love and joy that its never easy to say good-bye even when we know we must. Condolences to you all.

  236. My heart truly goes out to you. We think we’re invincible, until we have to say goodbye – especially when it’s unexpected. She sounds like she was a dear – my most sincere condolences, hugs and all.

  237. Ahhhh so sorry. I had a similar experience with a cat when I was a teenager. Mom took him to the vet.. and didn’t come back with him. It felt awful not to say good-bye.

  238. Dear Stephanie,
    We just had to let our dog go on Monday. She came to us 3 years ago after the death of my father-in-law and stole our hearts. I’m so sorry for your loss. You really can’t be prepared for that kind of thing. Our girl was battling cancer for a year and a half, so we really knew how limited our time was. I don’t know if there is a cat equivalent to this quote, but, maybe it can help you the way it has helped me a little this week. “The fidelity of a dog is a precious gift demanding no less binding moral responsibilities than the friendship of a human being. The bond with a true dog is as lasting as the ties of this earth can ever be…”
    -Konrad Lorenz
    Blessings to you and your family.

  239. Oh I’m so sorry, cats are such lovely companions. I always looked for her rare blog appearances. If she sat beside you while you knit you’ve spent an awful lot of time with her and must truly feel her absence sorely.

  240. Stephanie, I know just how you are feeling. we had to put down our beloved Hodge after having her just 3 years. she came to us as in a badly injured foster and stole my heart, laying beside me, healing from a coyote attack and in pain, she first put out her paw to touch mine and then put her head on my knee. she loved us and we loved her. she ended up having so many things wrong with her people wondered why she was alive. We finally had to say goodbye when xrays showed that she no longer had leg sockets and was most likely in incredible pain from arthritis.

  241. Don’t throw out those cat supplies. A big chunk of your love is accompanying Millie’s spirit right now, but it IS “kitten season”. At some time, sooner or later when you’re ready, your path may cross that of a special little one who needs you almost as much as you need that little ball of furry mischief.

  242. Our feline friends have a way of getting under our skin. Their presence, just curled up on a sofa on top of a crocheted blanket, as two of mine are doing as I write, just exudes tranquility and warmth. I’m glad Millie got to share her time with you and your family.

  243. I’ve been sad for you and yours for a few days. My thoughts are with you all as you move through this difficult process. I’m glad you had Millie as a part of your life, and that she had such a great family, but I know how awful this part is.

  244. Dear Stephanie,
    We’re so sorry for your loss. It’s always hard losing a pet-baby but always remember the good times. They truly do leave paw prints on our hearts.

    Hugs, Lauren, Cassie and Zoe

  245. Deepest sympathies for your loss. Furry companions sneak into life and heart and become more intrinsic than wethought possible. Even (perhaps especially) the ones that drive us nuts.

  246. I am so sorry to read about your darling cat. They are so much a part of our lives, it is devastating when we have to say goodbye to them. My own kitty has got me through some very dark times following the sudden death of Mr JK last year; I seriously don’t know what I would have done without all those comforting nudges and knowing meows. Big hugs to you Stephanie. xxx

  247. So sorry to read about losing your lovely furry friend. The ‘bad’ ones always steal our hearts, don’t they? Oh, the crying…..it does get better and less often.

  248. I am so sorry for you and yours. It is so hard to lose the fur-bearing family members, especially without warning. (Though having warning doesn’t make it much better.) We lost our Loki about a year and a half ago, and it still hurts. A lot. But we keep going.
    Sending you all the love and sympathy.

  249. I’m so glad Millie found you-she just wouldn’t have fit with any other family. You seemed to understand her and to a cat that really is everything. You were both well loved.

  250. I’m so sorry. We also just lost our darling cuddlecat, unfortunately only 6 years old. Hugs from a dark, chilly wintery South Africa xo

  251. Our four-legged family members leave such an imprint on our hearts. Hugs to all of you as you adjust to the loss of Millie.

  252. So sorry to hear this. Never easy to say goodbye to a loved one, whether furry or not! Sounds like she had a really good life thanks to you choosing her all those years ago. Have comfort in that and all the joy & laughs & everything else she brought to you throughout her years.

  253. I’m so sorry to hear about Millie. Give yourself time to grieve. Our pets really do manage to make a huge impact on our lives…

    We lost our 21 year old cat a couple of years ago. It was devastating! She was a great cat and we shared so much of our adult lives with her. Now our cat who we always thought of as the “baby” is actually in the “senior” cat category – 14 years.

  254. So sorry to hear of your loss of wee Millie. I lost my Salem a few months ago. He was bigger, but looked a lot like your Millie. Such a nice boy.

    Cats have a special place in this world
    Take good care

  255. I am so so so very sorry for your loss. We just euthanized our cat Shelby this past weekend when the vet diagnosed a brain tumor (at age 14). The running joke between my husband and I was that she was so stubborn that she was clearly determined to lived forever. When she suddenly started showing signs of distress, we knew it was time for us to help end her suffering. I hope you can take comfort in your memories of her and all that you gave each other.

  256. Sorry about your cat, Steph. I lost my cats too, about 20 years ago. I still miss them with a deep sadness.
    On a different note, I love your writing style. It reads so naturally. I’m a crocheter primarily and truly admire such patience for knitted lace, which in crochet is so easy by comparison. Nina http://www.nancysaid.com

  257. So sorry for your loss. My old cat lived 19 years and it stunned me what a hole she left in my heart when she didn’t wake up one morning. I had planned for her to be my last cat, then my heart was stolen by a wee black manx lassie who left us after a devastating diagnosis after only 2 years. The current feline may not be our best ever, but after 14 years she’s grown on us. They become so much more than pets.

  258. Oh, Stephanie, I’m so sorry for your loss. I didn’t even know of Millie, but I can see why she was so special to you all. She must have been a wonderful cat. It’s never easy to lose our friends and when we do, it’s always so heartbreaking.

  259. I’m so sorry to hear about Millie. It’s always so difficult when our pets leave us. My sympathies to the whole family.

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