The decision to welcome a four-legged companion into our lives is often accompanied by an unspoken understanding of the inevitable heartache that loss brings. Yet, for many loving human beings, the joy and unconditional love these animals provide far outweigh the profound grief that follows their passing. This is a story of such a bond, celebrating the life of Mimi, a beloved cat whose presence enriched her human family for seventeen years.
The Deep Bond Between Humans and Animals
It’s a sentiment shared by countless individuals: the word “pet” feels insufficient to describe the deep connection formed with animals. For many, they are not mere animals but cherished family members. The pain of losing them is, therefore, not just sadness but a crushing blow. The original author, like many, questions why we willingly subject ourselves to such profound emotional suffering, yet the answer often lies in the immeasurable love and companionship these animals offer. Over the years, their family had been fortunate with long-lived pets, with both their last dog and cat reaching the age of 17. One departed after a battle with cancer, while the other was tragically lost to a speeding accident. While one loss allowed for preparation, the other was a swift, shocking event, highlighting how the manner of death can intensify the grief.
Mimi’s Unlikely Beginning
On November 15th, their family’s cherished cat, Mimi, passed away after a sudden and aggressive illness. This unexpected loss left them unprepared, a stark contrast to the 17 years of companionship she had provided. Mimi’s story began on a chilly November evening, shortly after a difficult family situation. While leaving a supermarket, amidst the sounds of fireworks and excited children, a tiny cry pierced the night. Drawn by the sound, the author discovered a minuscule, half-starved black kitten being chased by children with firecrackers. This fragile creature, no bigger than a grapefruit, was clearly neglected and terrified.
A Fighter from the Start
Taking her into the supermarket, unsure of what to do, they were advised to take her to the vet. The vet’s assessment was surprising: the kitten, who appeared newborn, was likely six months to a year old, severely underdeveloped due to starvation. Despite her frail condition, she was a fighter. Once home, she displayed remarkable bravery, even hissing at their resident Border Collie, Fluff. Despite this rocky start, Fluff and Mimi quickly formed an inseparable bond, becoming the best of friends.
More Than a Pet, a Rescuer
Two weeks later, Mimi had gained significant weight and health, though she remained small. Advised by the vet that due to her early malnutrition she might not be able to carry kittens, they made the responsible decision to have her spayed. The author reflects on the beautiful kittens she might have had, a mix of her Persian and Siamese heritage, likely as spirited and vocal as she was. The profound realization was that while Mimi needed them, they needed her just as much. In the wake of a traumatic family period, Mimi, a rescue cat, had, in essence, rescued them too. She provided a much-needed distraction for their mother and a source of love and comfort. For the author, who had sworn never to get another cat after the loss of their previous beloved cat, Kitty, Mimi’s arrival was serendipitous. She found them when they needed her most, helping to heal wounds inflicted by past trauma.
A Life Full of Love and Play
Years passed, and life brought changes. After the death of their dog, Fluff, Mimi became the sole family pet for a time. Through more challenging periods, her presence remained a constant comfort. The arrival of two boisterous dogs and a house move were met with Mimi’s characteristic resilience. In fact, her final twelve months were her most vibrant. She seemed to regain her kitten-like energy, climbing trees, sprinting across the garden, and playfully pouncing on the dogs. Even the affectionate attention of one of the dogs, Tolly, who followed her adoringly, was tolerated with grace. She enjoyed a life of comfort, with ample space to roam, play, and nap. The family was confident they had many more years with her, especially after her excellent health results just three months prior.
A Sudden and Tragic Decline
Their certainty was shattered when Mimi’s appetite waned. Though initially not overly alarmed, they promptly took her to the vet due to her refusal to eat and subsequent vomiting. Her dramatic weight loss over just two days prompted hospitalization. Sadly, the diagnosis was sudden liver failure, a condition that was both unforeseen and untreatable, especially given her previously excellent health. By the following Thursday, the grim reality set in: despite all medical interventions, her liver had failed completely. They brought her home, heartbroken, and spent the night by her side, offering comfort and water by the fire she loved.
A Final Farewell
Even in her final moments, Mimi’s fighting spirit was evident. She passed away in their arms not peacefully in her sleep, but still struggling, her body succumbing to the illness. After her passing, they placed her on her favorite pillow. The boys, who had been gentle and understanding of her illness, came to say goodbye. While one dog whimpered and retreated, the other nudged and pawed at her, trying to rouse her, clearly missing her deeply. In the rain and fading light, they buried her beneath a cherry tree in the garden, surrounded by her favorite toys and cushion.
Honoring Mimi’s Memory
A few days later, feeling strong enough, they visited Teckels Animal Sanctuaries, a place dedicated to rescuing and caring for abandoned animals. In Mimi’s memory, they donated her remaining toys, food, and supplies. This act served as a recognition that Mimi was irreplaceable and that they would not be getting another cat. The sanctuary staff were grateful for the donation, and the visit was a poignant way to honor her life and support other animals in need.
The Lingering Absence
The author acknowledges that their profound grief might seem excessive to those without such deep animal bonds. However, Mimi had been an integral part of their family for so long, and the void she left was immense. The house felt quieter, devoid of her constant chatter and the dogs’ adoring presence. Tolly, in particular, struggled, whimpering and searching for her, still convinced she was hiding. The family understood that healing would take time and plenty of affection. This profound loss served as a stark reminder of the brevity of all lives and the importance of cherishing loved ones, whether they have two legs or four.
A Tribute to a Unique Soul
In loving memory of a beautiful, small, determined, sassy, and uniquely special cat who commanded their household and kept everyone in line, the author expresses their gratitude and love. They also extend heartfelt thanks to Vale Vets and their veterinarian, Ella Robotham, for their exceptional care of both the dogs and Mimi, and for their tireless efforts to save her. Their kindness, sensitivity, and dedication were deeply appreciated.
The author concludes by urging support for local animal charities, especially those caring for rescued and abused animals. They provide specific instructions for donating to Teckels Animal Sanctuaries via text message, encouraging even small contributions.
Mimi’s passing leaves an unfillable space, but her memory and the love she brought will forever remain with her human family. Rest in peace, sweet girl.
