I appreciate both your sentiments and am so happy to hear that your new babies are helping you heal.

Our tabby died a year ago last week (age 16) and our Maine Coon died four years ago (age 11) - both succumbed to kidney disease. Although we got them a year apart, they were inseparable for 11 years.

When Roxy died, August was the saddest kitty I've ever known. He would cry at night, wander around calling to Roxy, lost weight and did not enter their favourite room for about 6 months. It was heart breaking, first of all to lose our precious little girl and then to watch this poor little guy's heart break day after day. We gave him all of our attention and coddled him. He did finally cheer up and appeared to be himself but became very needy.

We thought of getting another kitten but couldn't imagine "replacing" our little princess. When August died last year, the thought of getting another kitten was so painful because again, we were worried that we would only be looking for a replacement.

As times goes on, we still really miss our kids, but have recently begun talking about finding a couple of baby kittens (this is a good sign). I know there are so many unfortunate kitties without homes and someone to love them. I can only hope we are fortunate enough to be adopted by two as sweet and special as Roxy and August.