I grew up with a tuxedo cat who was with me for 18 years — from when I was a preteen all the way into adulthood. She wasn’t “just a pet.” She was my sister in every way that mattered. She licked my tears when I cried, made biscuits on my back when I felt alone, and stayed close through every hardship — including my father’s passing. Losing her felt like losing a piece of my history, my comfort, and my safe place. If you’re grieving a pet who carried you through life, I understand that kind of loss — the quiet, private grief that hits in waves. I know what it’s like when a pet becomes your emotional anchor and letting go feels impossible.