Hi Markus
 

I couldn't stand to be without a cat either. I only lasted 6 months. It did ease the pain getting sammy. I didn't think anything would help, even when I brought him home. It did, and quicker than I thought possible. Give yourself time Markus. Life is lonely without our furry friends. ginnie:hug::grouphug:

You lasted longer than I did, Ginnie. A week after we unexpectedly lost my previous therapy dog, my wife was urging me, and as it sometimes takes some time to make arrangements, delaying/procrastinating until I was actually ready would have made the waiting unbearable. As soon as we began looking at prospective adoptees, I knew that was it. It was still about 2 months.

There were admittedly some rough spots at first. We still think about those we've lost from time to time, and it's only natural that we always will, but when we do, all we have to do is look at that new face, and the blues give way to smiles and laughter...

Doc

Hi Doc. your dog is so cute!
 

Hi Doc. Glad you went ahead and got your baby. I am such an emotional person, that in two months I was still in tears part of every day. It took me a long time to see straight. I wasn't really planning on another cat at all. This boy actually picked me, running up to me like I was his long lost mother. There was such desperation in him, that I took him home without really thinking at all! He was so desperate for love, well...he got to me. I just finished making my nice fresh bed, now hairless, and he is eyeballing it, as it is now the cleanest place to lay in the house. I am hoping for Markus too Doc. that he will be able to adopt someday. Sometimes when you don't plan, some baby walks right into your life. Sometimes there is only one that the bond is so strong, that you know that particular relationship can never be repeted. I do love my new sammy, but I will never forget the 21 year bond I had with scruffy. He rode a motorcycle with me, and traveled all over the country to my art shows. At least now, I can look back with joy, and still have sammy to keep me company. We all need our furry friends I really believe they are good for us. I had Scruffy, longer than I had my own children! take care of that puppy, is looks so sweet. ginnie:hug::)

Just to give an update. I am much better now. Certain things we used to do together, like when I worked in my garden yesterday and she used to get in between what I was doing and later just lie somewhere near and watched me, makes me sad again and I then am missing her company a lot, but the effect is not as intense as the first 2-3 weeks after her passing away.
I am also thinking of getting another cat again. At the moment I had to get tenants into my home as I am not doing too well financially (during our winter season here now) so I am reluctant to get her in at this time, but I think during our summer season I should be more stable financially and know and trust my tenants better to do that then. But at least I am thinking about it already. I am sure that is due to everyone's advice to get another cat.
I used to buy Minki a piece of cooked chicken from the supermarket close to my home everyday, and yesterday the manager was inquiring about my cat, and I had to tell him the bad news. It is good of him to noticed and asked about her, but it is sad to tell the story about her. I am sure this will happen again in the future sometime as not everyone know of her passing.
When I do get another cat I promise to let everyone here know and I will send photos with. Thanks again for the support and enjoy the nice hot summer for most of you as it is freezing cold and raining here in Cape Town as I send this message.

Sometimes it's difficult but this will aid in your healing so much. Eventually you'll be able to think and talk about her and smile. :)

When the time comes, Markus, I hope you have all vaccinations available for your new friend that we in the US have! :)

Hi Sparky, I think we are on par with any first world country with regards to vaccinations for animals. I had Minki at the vet when I got her and she was given all the vaccinations needed. I had a schedule to take her back when it was time for more and the vet send me a reminder at the time.
She had the feline cat aids and what I was told is that there is no cure for this disease (like in humans too). Do you know of anything in your country that can help to prevent or cure this? Just for in case I encounter the condition in another cat. Apparently there are so many female cats in my country that have this condition.