 |
| In 2009 |
After a fairly good day yesterday, Chica took a turn for the worse last night. She was unable to eat anymore and was beginning to have trouble breathing. She sat with us in the living room all night and I really didn't think she would be here this morning but she was, alert and wanting to be near us.
When she began to have more trouble breathing we felt it was time to let her go. At the ER vet, they said she was so very close to the end. We were holding her and talking to her as she went under.
She is buried next to Joey near the cat house,wrapped in a baby blue blanket with a bouquet of daffodils and a piece of rose quartz to symbolize that she was my heart cat.
What can I say about my first cat? I am in awe that she lived to be almost 22. She had an amazing personality and intelligence
 |
| At 5-6 months |
Many vets feared her feisty character. They had deep scratches to show for their time with her.
In her younger years we called her Queen of Mean because of her intense dislike for other cats. She would have preferred to be an only cat. She walked through the house grumbling and muttering if other cats got in her way. Because of this she held on to her top cat position - they all deferred to her.
With us Chica was always sweet and loving. Her purr was loud and strong and could keep Pop awake at night. She loved people and would come out to greet any visitor with curiosity and affection.
She loved boxes to sit in and to pummel. Even on the day before she passed she got up looking for her box and spent a few moments sitting in it.
 |
| Picking on Yoko...yet again! |
She loved being naughty and would do something we didn't want her to do in order to get attention. Her favorite was to pick on Yoko or to pummel the window blinds, getting them all tangled.
She liked to play with us only. She could jump and catch a kitty ball with her two front paws. I would slide pennies on the floor and she would catch them with her paw. She even played hide and seek with me. I would hide and call to her and she would roam the house looking behind and under things until she found me and then it was her turn to hide. Her favorite place was on the floor of the bathtub. I would sneak up on her and just see the tips of her ears over the edge of the tub. If other cats would come over to join in, Chica would walk away in disdain.
There will never be another cat like her and I will remember her forever. Wait for us at the Rainbow Bridge, sweet girl and give our love to Joey and all those who have gone before. Sweet dreams.
 |
| Thank you to Ann of Zoolatry for this lovely graphic |
105 comments:
Oh Cheri, I am so sorry. What a sad day this is. I sure am sending you and Don some gigantic hugs. I know you are both hurting like crazy. You sure are in my thoughts and prayers.
I'm so very sorry for your loss. This is a beautiful tribute, though, and I'm so glad she brought such love and joy to your home and heart for 22 years.
Oh dear friends, we are all so very sad to hear that Chica had to go. We all know how much you loved your dear girl and we are all so thankful that you shared her wonderful life with all of us. Chica had such an amazing life and she will live in our hearts forever.
Love and hugs from all of us.
Brian, Sascha, Gracie, Zoe, Dolly, Precious, Kit, Dad and Mom
Oh, Cheri, I am so sorry that Chica has gone to the Bridge. I wish there was something -- anything, really -- that we could say to lessen your pain and sorrow. But we cannot, because we know that your heart aches so much only because you loved Chica so much. Hugs, purrs and prayers to you and Don as you miss your special lady. Surely she will wait for you at the Bridge.
We are so very sad that Chica had to cross over. But 22 years is a great life for a poodin'! We are glad that she remained Top Cat for all her life, and glad that she climbed into her box one last time. Many hugs and purrs and purrayers are coming to you from all of us.
Luf, Us and Maw
We're so sorry. purrs,
Pip, Smidgen, Minnie, Hollie
Sending more soft purrs, and this brought a tear to mom's eyes, as she sounds much like my Angel tortie sissie PooPoo. Hope they become fast friends at the Bridge. Purrs from all of us.
We are all so sorry that Chica had to leave for the Bridge. This is a very beautiful tribute to a very special girl.
Purrs of comfort,
Cory and family
Cheri, I'm so sorry to read this. It will never be easy saying good-bye to our companion cats. There are no words at this time to heal but soon memories of her will make you smile. Guaranteed! Rest in peace, sweet one. hugs,Deb
I am so very sorry. Chica will be missed lots by all of us. She was such a special kitty, and that came through in your blog.
Cheri, my heart breaks for you. What can I write? Nothing. She was such a special Being in your life, and I think you were both blessed to have each other.
Purrs and peace, and godspeed to Chica's spirit.
Big (((hugs))).
We are so sorry to hear that Chica has gone to the Bridge. We know how much you loved her and we know how much you did for her to keep her healthy and happy. The fact that she lived almost 22 years shows how well loved and cared for she was.
(((Hugs))), purrs and prayers to you at this sad time.
The Florida Furkids and Mom Sharon
I am in tears reading this. When they are your heart cat it's even harder to let them go on to the Bridge to wait for us. I have suffered like that with Robin who looked like Chica and with Admiral. Both were my heart cats. But I only say thin to let you know that as with the others here who have commented on this sad time, I understand.
My condolences and here are hugs and ourrs from Katie and me both. Lots of love.
What wonderful memories of you have of Chica, she was truly and amazing cat.
We are all so, so sad that it was Chica's time...we're sending big warm {{hugs}} and rumbling purrs your way...those heart kitties leave such a big hole.
xx Trish and the Kats xx
We are so very sorry to hear that Chica has gone to the Bridge. We hope the joy that she brought you for almost 22 years helps ease your pain just a little, though we know it is not easy losing a furbaby, especially one as special as Chica was to you. We send you comforting purrs, headbutts and hugs.
Wally, Ernie, Zoey and mom Sue
oh we are sorry beyond words to hear that you had to say goodbye.
And we rejoice that you had her for 22 wonderful years! May those sweet memoried comfort you as you mourn....
Hugs to you,
Max, Faraday, Allie & mom
I am so sad to hear about your beloved Chica. She lived a wonderful long life and kept those rabble rousers at bay just fine. Hugs and purrs to you.
Oh Cheri I am so sorry, I know how heartbroken you must be. I cried and cried for sweet Chica when I read your beautiful post. Sending you all my love and hugs and purrs from the boys.
22 years with love and care. I'm totally sorry for your loss, Mom Cheri. I send warm hug and purrs to comfort you. Chica will be missed by all of us here.
luv
xoxo
Mom Linda here; Cheri, I am so sorry and know how you feel so well. My Tasha,tortie, lived to 17, she looked so much like your Chica; and she would also have preferred to be a single cat, but we had her brother Boris and our former feral Popcorn. She loved us, and always enjoyed company. But she growled and whapped poor non assertive Popcorn until he passed away, 10 mos before her. She was the last of our 3; her brother Boris passed about 4 mos before her; we think she stayed behind so she could just be our little girl and so we would not be lonely. Then she too could not breathe and lost so much weight. Our vet came to our home and like you, I held her as we sent her to the bridge where she is with Chica. I am sure they are having a good time together and probably rule their part of the bridge. And I know she waits for me as Chica waits for you. Please feel my arms giving you a warm reassuring hug, Linda and Savannah
This is very sad news and we send purrs and hugs. Your post is beautiful. 22 years together is a special gift you gave to each other. The love will not go away.
We're so sorry to hear this. Chica had a long, happy, wonderful life full of love. Sending lots of purrs and hugs.
We too feel like a piece of our heart is gone too. WE weep for you and for Chica. She imprinted herself onto many hearts and she will not be forgotten. Her long life left many pawprints. Rest well dear Miss Chica and we will see you in our time at the Bridge.
hugs and purrs and soft whisker kisses
xoxoxox
So sorry for your loss. It's never easy to let go
This is a beautiful tribute to your sweet Chica! 22 years is a long time to get to know and love a kitty. She will be greatly missed. So very sorry Cheryl xx
We are all so sad to hear about beautiful Chica. She was and is a gorgeous tortie goddess and we will miss her so. Our Mom is so sad, she can't stop her eyes from leaking. We are sending you all lots of purrs and love and positive thoughts. Your girl was loved by us ALL, Cheri. We know it is impossible to have a happy birthday today, so instead we will wish for you healing, love and comfort.
Oh Cheri, I am so sorry to read this. Sending love & condolences. What a beautiful tribute post to her.
Big hugs from me, and PURRS from all the Purries of Purrchance To Dream.
Paying my respects to Chica and showing her the love. Comforting purrz to those left left behind. *bows head and leaves nip mouse*
Me and mom are so sorry for your loss :(
Beutiful tribute post you made for her <3
XOXO
Oh my goodness! We are so so so so sorry. We send you all many purrs and comforting hugs. Angel Chica was amazing, totally unique and just beautiful. Run free and healthy and young again, sweet Chica. We love you forever. Take care
x
So very sorry, Cheri. She's been with you a long time. I'm glad she had one last good day with you. She'll always be with you in your heart and memory. Hugs,
Jan
I'm so terribly sorry you lost your heart kitty. My prayers are with you. This was a beautiful tribute to a beautiful kitty.
We're so sorry for your loss. It's always so difficult to let them go, but especially so when they have been such an important part of your life for so long. Many purrs and hugs for you and your family.
WE are so sorry for the loss of Chica. We are sending our bestest purrs to help you feel better.
We are so sorry. This is such a beautiful tribute to such a lovely girl, your love for her shines through. The longest and most lovely of feline lives, is never long enough. We send you love and rumbly purrs.
Fly free beautiful Chica, special girl.
Gerry, Mungo & The Ape xx
Cheri, we're so sorry to hear about Chica, but we know she had the best life any kitty could ever have had..surrounded by your love.
I'm sure she's exchanging life stories with other new friends at the Bridge. Our babies are there, too, to make her welcome.
Take care and know we're here for you with purrs and prayers.
Hugs,
Mom Julie, Tom, Tinker & Anastasia
Oh Im so sorry for your loss of sweet Chica. I can tell you loved her very much and she you. Thank you for giving her a great forever home.
Somewhere over the Rainbow there are fields and streams where you can let your soul run free...Run Free Chica...Run Fee
Cheri, I am so sorry to hear this. I know you did the right thing but also know how sad you must be. We're sending much love and lots of hugs and purrs to you and yours.
XXX from Katie, Franklin, Dobby, and Tasha.
I am so sorry to hear that your heart cat has past on. From what you wrote, she had a lovely life with you. That bridge is getting crowded with so many loves.
Sending hugs to you.
XO,
JC and The Purr and Fur Gang
We are so very sorry to read that your precious Chica has gone to the Bridge,
Sending you hugs, purrs and woofs from all at Templemoyle xxx
Oh, Cheri, I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your gorgeous Chica...We will add your sweetheart to our Angel page and never forget her=precious Chica was loved by so many at the CB and I understand your deep sorrow, having lost my first cat, Nikki, after 20 years...Wishing you all comfort at this terrible time=may the love of God surround you at this time of sorrow...Love never dies and I know your girl's love will always be with you...I will keep you and your family in my prayers; big hugs, dear friends...J, Calle, Halle, Sukki, Mommy Cat, Daddy Cat
I am so so sorry to read this. We are sending lots and lots of purrs to you.
Chica will be looking over you now, from the Bridge. She had a long life and most importantly, she was loved.
The humans send some hugs too and we send more purrs.
We are sending purrayers of support in this sad time. We know we will all meet again one some day and until then we will remember you with love.
We are so sorry to hear that sweet Chica has gone to Rainbow Bridge. We are keeping you in our thoughts and prayers. Warm hugs and nose kisses
Farewell Chica, see you at The Bridge. Purrs to your beans.
We are very sorry to hear that dear Chica has gone to the Bridge. We know what it is to lose your heart kitty,especially when they have been a part of the family for so long.
We bet you have wonderful memories and we purr they bring you comfort.
Purrs Tillie and Georgia,
Treasure,Tiger,JJ and Julie
and mom Nancy
We are so sorry to hear of Chica's passing. She has shared your life for so many years. This is a lovely tribute to your beautiful girl. We send you purrs, and hugs from our mum.
My heart breaks for you. Such a lovely remembrance post. They never leave our hearts. Ever.
big hugs xoxo
What a lovely memorial to your sweet Chica - I'm sorry for your loss - may your happy memories sustain you during this sad time. T.
Dear Friends, my heart is aching for you. Many, many prayers are coming your way ... Chica is a blessed angel now.
Love, Ann
We are so sad to hear that Chica had to go to the bridge today. We send you and your family our hugs and purrs. We know how special Chica was and how long she has been part of your heart. And she will always be there, all you have to do is look.
Harry, Dexter and Tipp
Chica était magnifique, elle a eu une belle vie, nous avons une grande pensée pour vous,
Laurence, Opale et Sonye
We are so very sorry for your loss. This is such a lovely tribute to Chica. We send you comforting hugs and purrs.
We also thank you for your kind words of sympathy for the loss of our beloved Grrreta. Your thoughtfulness and friendship are truly appreciated.
Purrs,
Ambrose, Clarence, Teddi, Baskin, Abner, and Mom Michelle
Our Purrs Of Comfort to you on this sad parting...
So sad. Sweet sweet Chica. My heart hurts for you as you grieve. It's never easy saying goodbye, a big piece of your heart went with her to keep her company on her journey. It will be glorious to be reunited with all our kitties friends who have gone before us.
We are so very sorry for your loss. We send our purrs and hugs to you and your family. I only hope they help to ease your sadness my friend. I know she had a wonderful life with you.
Our deepest condolences on your loss! Chica sounds like an amazing kitty, and you were lucky to have her for as long as you did. We hope your memories comfort you and knowing she knew how much she was loved soothes your heart. We are purring for all of Chica's loved ones left behind.
We are so sorry that Chica had to leave you. We send warm light, gentle purrs and headbumps.
Run free at the Bridge, awesome Chica ...
Oh Cheri,
I am so sad about Chica. It is always tough to let our heart cat go. We feel for you and we send you much love
Nellie's Mom
(((Cheri and all at Wildcat Woods))) Our thoughts, purrs, and purrayers are with you all!
Cheri, my heart aches for you. I am so sorry for your loss. You took such wonderful care of Chica and her long life is proof of that.
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
I'm so sorry for your loss. Chica sounds like she was a wonderful kitty! We are sending purrs, prayers, and hugs your way. <3
We are so sorry to hear about your loss. We are sending lots of purrs, prayers, and hugs your way <3
Cheri, I understand and my heart breaks for you. It doesn't matter how long and happy a life they live, they pain is just as great. But what a blessed life sweet Chica had. Thank you for loving her so much.
Jan.
Cheri my heart is breaking yet again. Too many kitties crossing the bridge and now dear, sweet Chica.
Living til almost 22..oh my how BLESSED you were!! That is so unusual for a cat.
Your post tore me apart because my Angel Bobo passed the same way....the breathing, not eating.
We are deeply saddened by the loss of beloved Chica.....we are praying for God to give you strength in this most difficult time.
She was one lucky girl to have YOU as her Mom....we are sending you gentle hugs, prayers, much love and our deepest sympathy
Love, Caren & Cody
I am sorry for your loss. It must be very difficult after having Chica with you for almost 22 years. She has basically grown up with you. You have so many wonderful, vibrant memories of her though that will always be with you, and she will also be there in spirit. I'm sure you will feel her presence from time to time. A presence as strong as hers cannot be denied.
What a cat! She will be remembered as long as you are on this earth. I still remember my Tommy fondly and he has been gone for 11 years now. It sounds like Chica had the same thing that he did, which was lymphoma.
I'm sure they'll meet each other on the Bridge and have a good chat about all of us.
Wishing you peace now that Chica has hers.
I´m so very sorry!
RIP CHICA!
Wow! What a great memorial post to Chica. Every time I have seen her photo I think of one of our feral cats who disappeared three years ago and never returned. My heart goes our to you for your loss. Chica sounds like she added so much to your household with her versatile ways of playing. I am so sorry for your loss.
Debby in Arizona
http://homelesscatcare.blogspot.com/
Talk to Your Angels and Pets
http://www.YourAngelSpeaks.com
God's speed to ewe Chica... and many hugs with sincere sympathies two yur mom N dad...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Run free sweet girl and play with all our friends gone before.. Purrs and love to your mum who will be hurting so.. Hugs GJ xx
we are so very very sorry..... we know she will be well met over the Bridge. This is a lovely tribute to her.... we hope you can hold on to the happy memories right now
I'm so sorry to hear the sad news about Chica. She will always be safe within your heart.
Run young and free again pretty girl!
What a great LadyCat she was. You made her safe and loved and happy for all those many years and I know that love was returned 100-fold. She will sleep sweetly nearby, her spirit at the Bridge, until you meet again.
Sending you lots of XOXOXOXO.
We're so sorry to hear that Chica has gone to the Bridge. She had a marvelous life with you and she'll be waiting for you.
Sending soft purrs,
Charlemagne, Tamar and Mal
Oh no, we are so sorry to hear of Chica's passing. That was a really beautiful post about her. We send you our gentlest purrs at such a sad time and surround you with thoughts of love. It is beyond heart-breaking to lose a heart kitty...you will be in our thoughts and prayers Mom Cheri.
Be Well Sweet Chica
Cheryl & Don, I am sorry to hear of the loss of your beloved Chica. She sounds like she was one feisty lady. I know you will miss her.
I am so so sorry for your loss! The unconditional love that our four legged friends provide us with is priceless. A little piece of our heart goes with them when they leave us.
Many many warm thoughts and big hugs to you!
xo Catherine
Mommy says the story of Chica and her passing made her heart hurt. She has been through this nine times and it never gets easier. We and she are sending you all our love, prayers, purrs and hugs. We are so glad she was in your life for such a long time. We know you have lots and lots of wonderful memories. More purrs and hugs from the kitties at www.thecatonmyhead.com, Lily Olivia, Mauricio, Misty May, Giulietta, Fiona, Astrid, Lisbeth and Calista Josette
We were very sad to hear that Chica is gone. We're glad we had the chance to know her through these pages, and read the loving tribute today. Those kitten pictures of her are precious.
Sending you our thoughts, condolences and purrs.
CatSynth (Amar and Luna)
So sad that Chica had to leave. Goodbye, little one.
Hugs and purrs to you!
We are so sorry for your loss
Dear Cheri - My heart goes out to you at the loss of your sweet and fiesty Chica...I know you know she is at peace now and resides in your heart.
I wonder who will now be top cat in your clowder?? :)
You are in my thoughts...
~Lisa Co9T
Please accept our condolences on the loss of your heart- she had a good long life and she was loved and loved you in return
We are thinking of you, sending up prayers and leaving lots of warm hugs and nose kisses.
Dear Chica
Your beauty and love of life will live on forever. Lots of hugs to your loving family
Madi and mom
I am so sorry for your loss. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers.
Hugs,
Deb and Rudy
We heard from Ann that your beloved Chica has gone to the Rainbow Bridge.We wanted to send you our sincere and deepest condolences. We think you were so fortunate to have a little character like Chica in your life for so many cherished years! It is wonderfully evident that she was as loved by you as she so entirely loved you. That surely , is one of Life's sweetest gifts. Rest in peace sassy Chica .Say hello to our Lewis for us at the Bridge. Hugs and lots of love to your family.
the critters in the cottage xo
Teri is home today because it is a snowy day and so we came by to expurress our sympathy for Chica's passing. Teri had a heart kitty, too, and while the only Curly Swirly cat here who knew him is Sammy, we all know she loves us so, but her Bo must have been a very special cat to her, as your Chica was to you...
Teri talked to an animal communicator once and she told her that Bo is still here, in the body of Brighton and that he greets everyone every day and is happy to know there is love in Teri's heart still and that all the kitties here feel his presence.
That is comforting to Teri and we think when you remember Chica and your times together, you will feel her presence there with you forever...
We are so sorry to hear of your sweet Chica going to the Bridge and know there will be a huge hole in your lives. She had a lovely life with you and knew that she was loved which was the biggest gift of all.
We are sure she will still be keeping an eye on you all and if you're lucky you may glimpse her shadow.
Luv Hannah and Lucy xx xx and Sue xx
Sweet and special girl - I am so sorry. What a lovely tribute to a greatly loved girl. Fly high, sweet Chica.
What an amazing journey you and Chica have had in those 22yrs! We are so sorry it was her time to go, but we hope your happy memories of her will comfort you.
Mindy, Moe, Cookie, Mike and mom Nina
We are so sorry for the loss of your lovely Chica. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Hugs,
Pam & Oskar
What a very pretty girl and such beautiful words in her memory. Many hearts feel your loss. She will always hold a very special place in your heart, FOREVER
We are so very sorry for your loss. Mere words just aren't enough. Sending healing energy to you all. Jeanne, Chloe and LadyBug
We are so so sorry for your lost.
Purrs for Chica~~ We will meet Chica one day~~
I am so very sorry that Chica had to go to the Rainbow Bridge. It was very kind of you to help her on her way when she was beginning to suffer. I am very impressed that she lived 22 years. We are all praying and purring for you.
I has a Sad. Rest in peace.
We just heard the sad news and wanted to add our condolences for your loss. Chica had a good long life with you, and you'll always have so many happy memories. Sending comforting vibes and purrayers...
my prayers are with you Cheri. Yet it is such a blessing to know how much Chica was loved and how much she enjoyed being with you. I will think of her playing hide and seek with you and waiting for you at the Rainbow Bridge.
Katie Kat.
We're so sorry to hear Chica didn't make it. We send our purrs to you.
And thanks for your kind words about Au. We miss our old boy.
Dear friends,
My heart is crying here as well, so sorry for your loss, it's a difficult moment but I believe my sweet friend Chica is now in a beautiful garden plenty of colorful flowers, butterflies and she is in peace!
You prepared a beautiful homage to her in this post, thanks for sharing.
I'm sending purrs and love to you all
Luna - WE LOVE LUNA and mom Léia
so very sorry. there really aren't any words when a companion for so many years leaves us. sending loving purrs
the cat realm
Rest in peace, sweet Chica. xxx
Sounds like you have a lot of sweet memories of Chica. I know they will comfort you but not fill the hole in your heart. The other cats will help ease the pain but some losses you feel forever. I am so glad she had a long and interesting life with you.
Post a Comment