What to say when someones cat dies

As a designer and writer of sympathy cards, Mary helps you put into words what you're feeling.

It can be hard to know what to say to a grieving friend, but these words of support will help.

Photo by Ryan Walton on Unsplash

Condolence Messages for the Loss of Pets

This past April, our dog Daisy died. She was an 8-year-old mongrel with a sweet personality and an annoyingly high-pitched bark. She loved swimming and would sooner swim across a lake than walk around it. Daisy was a farm dog and was treated as such. She slept outside and often would sneak over to the older woman who lives across the lake for a cuddle and the occasional bone.

Losing a Furry Companion Can Be Like Losing a Family Member

Although I didn't feel the need to be consoled when she died, the majority of people I know who have pets will need some kind words and acknowledgment of their loss. Her death got me thinking about what I would say to people I know whose dogs and cats are more like family to them. Our views of our pets may be different, but a few thoughtful words to ease their sadness would be needed.

For some people, losing a pet that has been part of the family for many years is almost like losing a family member or a well-loved friend. The loss of that pet will leave a hole in their heart, and the owner may experience real grief. This shouldn't be pushed aside as nonsense, because the pain they feel is real. Although you may not share their passion for animals to the same extent, you'll want to ensure you don't say the wrong thing and jeopardize your friendship at this sensitive time. If you feel that you might, a simple card with a condolence message may be the better option. No matter what you choose, reaching out to a friend will help them as they move through the stages of grief.

What Do You Write in a Sympathy Card for a Pet?

Whether you choose to call them on the phone or send a card or a text message, it can be difficult knowing what to say to ease a friend's sadness following the loss of their pet. I have put together some sympathy messages which can be used when pets die. These can be tailored as you see fit with the name and gender of the animal and perhaps a few simple words of your own.

Our dog Daisy

Own Photo

Heartfelt Condolence Cards for Pet Loss

If you have an excellent local card shop, you may be able to find a suitable pet sympathy card. Some of these may depict an animal that looks similar to the one that recently died. Another option could be a tranquil view of woods, a beach, or clouds. Did your friend take their dog for walks on the beach or in the woods? These would be appropriate. Many cards are left blank for you to write your message. Below I have provided you with simple words of comfort and quotes about pets that will help you create the perfect message.
Alternatively, if you know the pet is ill, buy the card early. By doing this, you can get a card on Zazzle, where I am a designer, that you can have printed with the animal's name and if you have it, a photo. A thoughtful card or small personalized gift will be a lasting keepsake for your friend whose pet has died.

If Possible, Make It Personal

If possible, try to think of a fond memory or loveable trait to include in your card. These personal touches can do wonders to aid in the healing process of those who have lost pets.

Sympathy Messages for the Loss of Dogs or Cats

Let's get started with the condolence messages you can either use or modify for your situation.

• I am sorry for your loss. [Insert pet's name here] will be greatly missed.
• [Insert pet's name here] was such a wonderful [cat/dog]. He/she was lucky to have found a family as loving as yours. Know that we are thinking of you.
• They say a dog is a man's best friend. [Insert pet's name] was a special dog. May the fond memories ease the pain of grief for your family at this difficult time.
• Losing a loyal and faithful friend isn't easy. Please know that I'm thinking of you, and if you need to talk or share memories of him/her, please call me. I'm so sorry for your loss.
• [Insert pet's name] left paw prints of love on everyone who knew [him/her].

For some people, losing a pet is like losing a family member.

pixabay

Animal Sympathy Messages for Cards

• A devoted friend and beloved pet such as [insert animal's name] will always hold a special place in your heart. [He/she] is gone but never forgotten.
• Although others may not understand your grief, I do. Losing a pet such as [pet's name] can leave a hole in your heart and a void in your life. Know that I am thinking of you and offer my condolences. Call me if you want to chat or need a shoulder to cry on.
• [Insert pet's name] will always be by your side, watching over you—my sincere condolences to you and your family.
• We can't imagine the grief you feel after losing [insert pet's name]. [He/she] was a lovely [animal type] with a sweet temperament and will be missed by those who knew her.

Break Out the Photo Albums

Do you have photos of your friend's pet? Consider including them along with your note.

Here are a few messages that will work well on a pet sympathy card. Where possible, add the pet's name for a personal touch. If you don't know the correct spelling, your friend has probably referred to the pet via text, Facebook, or other social media channels. Also, be sure to get the gender correct if the message includes any gendered pronouns.

A personal message is always well received and is a thoughtful way to show you care. Some of these ideas are specific to a particular type of pet, some are religious, and some are more generic.

• You were a fantastic pet mom, and I know your family must be feeling deeply sad at this time. [Insert pet name] was a great [animal type], and his/her memory lives on through your memories.
• I was saddened to hear of [insert pet's name] death. No words of sympathy will ease your pain, but I want you to know that I am thinking of you in your time of grief. Call me when you feel ready to talk or need a hug.
• [Insert pet's name] has been an integral part of your life. Don't be ashamed to feel sadness—[he/she] was a special friend, and the grief you feel is natural and understandable. Take care of yourself, and allow yourself time to grieve.
• We share your sorrow. [Insert pet's name] was a loving [animal type] who many will miss. [He/she] had such a sweet personality.

Comforting words can help ease a friend's pain in times of sorrow.

Photo by Everson Mayer on Unsplash

• I was sorry to hear of your loss. I hope the pain in your heart will be eased by the beautiful memories you have of [insert pet's name].
• Although [insert pet's name] has passed, [he/she] will always be beside you in spirit, watching over you. So sorry for your loss.
• I was sorry to hear that [pet's name] had crossed the rainbow bridge. My condolences are with you and your family at this sad time.
• [insert dog's name here]—a true ray of sunshine—has been taken away. I am thinking of you at this difficult time.
• The love of a pet will always be remembered. Cherish your memories.
• [insert dog's name] was a loyal and faithful friend.
• Loving thoughts are sent your way, so sorry for the loss.
• [Pet's name] was such a fun-loving and sweet [animal type]. [His/her] passing has shocked us and I'm sure devastated you. I have such fond memories of [him/her]. Let's get together soon and catch up on things.

Note: The Rainbow Bridge is perhaps the most well-known and frequently referenced poem about the loss of a pet.

A memorial stone is a beautiful, lasting way to acknowledge how much a friend's pet meant to them.

Thoughtful Pet Sympathy Gifts

Another kind way to console a grieving friend is with a pet sympathy gift. These gifts are easily customizable and can provide a lasting memory of a beloved pet. Here are several appropriate gifts to give someone who has just lost a pet.

• Memorial Stone
• Garden Statue
• Framed Photo
• Portrait
• Wind Chime
• Memorial Ornament

Religious Pet Sympathy Messages

• Our pets are like gifts from God—they come into our lives and bring us such joy without asking for anything in return. We were sorry to hear of your loss and extend our sympathies to you and your family. Your [dog/cat] will be greatly missed by all who knew [him/her].
• Our heartfelt prayers are with you as you come to terms with the loss of [insert pet's name]. [He/she] will be missed!
• I was so sorry to hear of [insert pet's name] 's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you in this difficult time.
• [Insert pet's name] 's joyous spirit and loving demeanor touched everyone who met him, and [he/she] will live on in the hearts of many. May God give you strength and peace at this difficult time.
• I am deeply saddened to hear of your loss. [Insert pet's name] was such a beautiful ray of light in the lives of all who knew [him/her]. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
• I know that [insert pet's name] 's companionship was a blessing in your life and that [his/her] passing has been incredibly difficult for you. I pray that God will give you strength and continue to bless you in other ways.
• Please accept my heartfelt condolences for the loss of [insert pet's name]. May the Lord comfort you and yours during this time of sorrow. Please accept my deepest condolences, and know that I am available to pray with you at any time.
• I have many fond memories of [insert pet's name], and learning of [his/her] passing was very upsetting. May God restore your spirit and give you comfort in this difficult time. My deepest condolences.

If finding the right words to say when a friend's pet dies feels impossible, sending a greeting card with a quote is a nice option.

Photo by Sabri Tuzcu on Unsplash

Pet Sympathy Quotes

• "What we have once enjoyed we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes a part of us." — Helen Keller
• "It came to me that every time I lose a dog, they take a piece of my heart with them, and every new dog that comes into my life gifts me with a piece of their heart. If I live long enough, all of the components of my heart will be dog, and I will become as generous and as loving as they are." — Anonymous

Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole.

— Roger Caras

• "If I have any beliefs about immortality it is that certain dogs I know will go to heaven, and very very few people." — James Thurber
• "I have sometimes thought of the final cause of dogs having such short lives and I am quite satisfied it is in compassion to the human race; for if we suffer so much in losing a dog after an acquaintance of ten or twelve years, what would it be if they were to live double that time? The misery of keeping a dog is his dying so soon. But, to be sure, if he lived for fifty years and then died, what would become of me? — Sir Walter Scott

Until one has loved an animal, a part of one's soul remains unawakened.

— Anatole France

• "If having a soul means being able to feel love and loyalty and gratitude, then animals are better off than a lot of humans." — James Herriot
• "Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near, so loved, so missed, so very dear." — Anonymous

Poems About the Loss of a Beloved Pet

Four legs, a big heart,
it was love from the start.

Those we love are always close,especially when we need them most.In our hearts, they'll always beyoung, happy and running free.Although they're gone,

in our memory, they'll live on.