Why do pets have to have such short lives?

Why do pets have to have such short lives? They bring so much joy and love into our lives, but all too soon, they are gone!

It is with a heavy heart that I announce the passing of our dear, beloved fur baby Whiskers, the best cat in the world, the best pet in the world, at age 12. We are grateful that Whiskers' last full day of life, yesterday, was a beautiful, sunny, 72-degree day, so Whiskers was able to go outside to play and explore for two hours, and I rushed home early so I was able to be there for part of it and watch him explore, walking slowly but still filled with curiosity, even while the cancer was ravaging his body. When he was healthy, he weighed over 12 pounds, but this Monday he was down to 5.9 pounds, despite our best efforts.

Today, on the morning of his last day of life, Whiskers somehow managed to drag himself upstairs and into our bedroom to say goodbye! After making the difficult journey to our bedroom, he fell asleep, exhausted from the effort. At about 9:45 a.m. today, Whiskers had his last meal of his favorite food, Fancy Feast fish and shrimp. Shortly thereafter, he passed quietly and peacefully at the vet's office, while being petted by the family he so dearly loved, and who loved him back deeply.

We thank God above for bringing Whiskers into our lives and letting us spend nearly 12 years with him brightening our daily lives. Today, some lucky angel in heaven is welcoming the best cat in the world. Whiskers may be gone for our lives, but he will be in our hearts forever, until we meet again. Below is a photo of Whiskers from yesterday, his last full day of life. He always liked being carried like a baby, and he has always been our fur baby.