I've never had to run over an animal, thank God (knocks on wood). Have you hit the 2 cats in the same area? Maybe you could slow down because you know they're there? I'm not trying to blame you for hitting them, please understand. I know it's equally dangerous to avoid hitting them. But my reason for asking is that since you can't change other's irresponsible behavior, maybe you can adapt to it and a) not beat yourself up for their ignorance and b) not have to hit any more cats?

Just my thoughts.

ETA:

I'm sorry you're going through this.