I am so sorry I am also very sad about the Popes passing. God rest his soul.
About the kitty odor, Well I love cats, so, it would not bother me. Maybe you could try an air odor eliminater, like febreze or oust. I love oust, it really works!
Like your friend said, that should be the least of his problems. Hang in their sweetie, things will get better *HUGS* Katie