Soul Comfort for Cat Lovers: Coping Wisdom for Heart and Soul After the Loss of a Beloved Feline

by Liz Eastwood

"...more than just another book on pet loss. Reading this book is like talking to a friend who knows you almost better than you know yourself...it doesn't stop at just helping you through the grief...it will help you find an even deeper connection to your lost loved ones." - Ingrid King, ConsciousCat.net, author of Buckley's Story and Purrs of Wisdom If the loss of a feline friend has hit you particularly hard, know you are not alone.

In Soul Comfort for Cat Lovers, you will find validation, coping insights, and practical wisdom conveyed with spiritual warmth.

Liz Eastwood, CNC weaves her own experiences with advice from grief experts and stories from cat lovers to help you:

process your feelings and recognize them as normal create something positive out of the energy of grief cultivate a continued sense of connection to your cat deal with inconvenient grief strengthen your natural coping chemistry This book also explores evidence of the most soulful of soul comforts: the possibility of the continuation of your loved one's spirit-and your connection to that spirit-after death. This topic is discussed from a perspective of open-minded curiosity, without bringing in any particular dogma or religion.

Asserting that you can live wholeheartedly after loss, and that your feline friend would want nothing less for you, Soul Comfort for Cat Lovers is a compassionate handbook for your grief-healing journey.

Genres: Nonfiction, Cats, Self Help, Animals, Grief, Audiobook, Death

132 pages, Paperback

First published December 18, 2012

Reviews

[Jeff · Rating 4 out of 5]

A quick read and very to-the-point, which is what I needed after losing my kitty after just 4 years and having no idea how to grieve a pet I’d grown so close to. Reading about other people’s experiences helped. Turns out I’d done a quite a bit of what the book suggests, so it was helpful to know I was on a good path to healing :)

[Ellen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eastwood has written a lovely book which, as promised, I found very comforting having lost my beloved Boo several weeks ago.

For starts, it was a comfort to read someone who understands how much an animal is part of the family, a part of my life--far more than the word "pet" implies. Boo was a friend, he was funny and sweet and had a personality that was completely different than our other cats (each of whom was unique themselves).

I found the rituals (some of which my daughter had somehow figured out on her own) to be very useful and doable and the suggestions around grieving true for all those I have lost--human and animal.

The only area I didn't quite follow Eastwood was in her sections about life after death but I found even those a comfort. I need the reminder that I don't, can't, know what comes next and that it's important that I open my mind. Also, she writes of the "sense of wonder" which I know is important in all areas of life if I am to remain fresh and energized and creative.

Altogether, an excellent book which I'm glad to have read.

[Katherine · Rating 4 out of 5]

A short but helpful book for dealing with the loss of a cherished cat. Samples of other books I read were very dog focused and I liked that this book was solely about cats. It had some good ideas and resources in it. Occasionally I wished it had a bit more depth of discussion, but given the short attention span people often have while grieving, the succinct style and brevity made sense. I particularly liked the two poems included at the very end.

Counting toward Popsugar Reading Challenge 2016 - A book that's under 150 pages.

[Ashley Will · Rating 4 out of 5]

I finally read this book from my aunt after my cat Geordi died a few months ago suddenly from a stroke caused by his heart murmur. While I feel skeptical after after death experiences involving anyone including felines, the best advice for me personally was the author pointing out the "irony that it's the most sensitive and careful caretakers who feel the most guilt. Those who don't care much wouldn't even have those feelings." As it's true, even months later, I do feel a sense of guilt as maybe I could have noticed something was wrong sooner and wondered if every vet would say the same thing that there was nothing that could be done. I also liked the ideas of a ceremony to honor a beloved feline. I have Geordi cremated in a box on my fireplace mantel but perhaps I could also make a photo album for him too with the photo album that my aunt also sent me.

[Dawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I started reading this the night before I had to go back to work following time off to care for my sick cat and then time off following her home euthanasia. I was unable to sleep, bawling my eyes out, and dreading having to tell people who would be asking me about my kitty and knowing I would probably burst into tears at work. This book specifically addresses how to "get through the day", and it also offers a lot of other helpful advice for the cat-grieving process. I recommend it to anyone who has lost a beloved kitty.

[Lacey Louwagie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book, although only 125 pages, took me six weeks to read. Not because it wasn't good, but because it WAS. I so craved affirmation and validation after my cat Phoebe died that I wanted to savor the experience of, as far as I can tell, one of the only books on the market written specifically for grieving a beloved cat.

"Soul Comfort" is self-published, but it is self-publishing at its highest calling, fulfilling a need that mainstream publishers seem to mostly ignore with a high-quality offering. The book is accessible and well-written, with a clean, consistent layout and is virtually error-free. Growing out of the author's own grief after a beloved cat died, she shares her experiences as well as information from grief counselors and animal experts. The first part of the book validates the experiences of grieving after pet loss, and then moves into ways that you might honor your deceased pet and integrate your grief more fully. I especially liked her idea of choosing "continued connection" over "closure," because it helped me reframe the way I've been addressing my own grieving process. In the beginning, it felt sort of frantic -- like as soon as I got all Phoebe's photos and videos together, as soon as I got her urn, as soon as I wrote her a goodbye letter, then I would have "closure" and be ready to "move on." I did all those things and simultaneously started writing in My Pet Remembrance Journal, so then that journal became a proxy for my journey, and I started to feel anxious about finishing it so I could have "closure."

But that chapter made me realize there really is no "rush" in my attempt to remember and honor Phoebe, and I've taken a more relaxed approach to putting together her mementos so that I can treasure that time rather than have it feel like "one more thing I have to do" instead of moving on.

The final third of the book explores the spiritual side of grief and the possibility of a loved one's "essence" continuing to connect with you after they are gone. For me, this was the part that lagged the most, partly because it didn't have a lot of "cat-specific" reference points but also because it felt as though the author tried just a little too hard to reassure the reader that life does continue after death. Even though she didn't push any one religious agenda, and even though I do believe that mortal life is not all there is, something about it still rubbed me a bit the wrong way.

Still, I'm so glad that a book like this exists, and that Liz gave her project the time, effort, and professionalism it deserves. I will be holding onto my copy for a possible reread when I have to take this journey again (hopefully not for many years) or to lend to friends when the sad time comes for them to say goodbye to a cat companion.

Works Referenced That Are Now on My Reading List
My Cat Saved My Life
Cat Body, Cat Mind: Exploring Your Cat's Consciousness and Total Well-Being
Dogs That Know When Their Owners Are Coming Home: And Other Unexplained Powers of Animals

[Raggedy Chris · Rating 5 out of 5]

RTC after I process all my feelings. I lost my 2 sweet kitties last month, only 8 days apart. Right now I am overwhelmed by grief.

[Louise Taylor-Deville · Rating 4 out of 5]

A friend bought me this book after the death of my dearly loved 15 year old cat Susie who sadly died this week. A quick and easy yet very meaningful read just when you might need it 💕

[Inés · Rating 2 out of 5]

Another one of those I wish I never needed to read.

Grieving is hard, I'd say is the most difficult experience a person can go through. The lost of a beloved one is always beyond painful, maybe even hardest when the beloved one is our animal companion because a lot of people don't understand or may even go for the "just get another one" sentence.

Yago was (and I hate to have to write about him in past tense) my beloved and loyal cat companion for 18 years. He was a three weeks kitten and I a fifteen years old girl when we first met. Some of the author's advice comforted me and made me feel understood, not alone in my grief (although I know I'm not alone, I have a lot of friends that look a lot after me and knew Yago, loved him, and knew how much he meant to me).

But the part 2 of this book is ridiculous. I get that it may be helpful for some people, but definitely not for me. Use tarot cards to try to make contact with him? What about ouija boards? Are they out of style yet? Just no, thank you. I'm going through one of the worst times in my life, I was looking for a book to help deal with this in a more psychological/emotional way. Leave magic behind.

Maybe it's helpful for some people, but not for me. If you think like I do, please, just stay with Part 1 of the book.

[Xanthi · Rating 4 out of 5]

My almost 18 year old cat Bandit passed away a few weeks ago and I happened to stumble upon this book a few weeks later. It’s a lovely book. I wish it was a bit longer though. I have to admit that it was often quite triggering. I had to put it aside a few times while I dealt with the emotions it brought forth. But it was also helpful, so if you are grieving the loss of a cat, don’t be put off reading this one. In the end, you will be glad that you did.
I listened to this on audiobook format and the narrator is the same one that narrates a lot of cat cozy mysteries. Her tone was warm and gentle and perfect for this book.

[Allyra · Rating 5 out of 5]

I lost my soul cat, my once-in-a-lifetime cat, my best friend a month ago. I wasn't ready, I never would be, but boy has it wrecked me. In a world where a lot of people that surround you just don't 'get it', this book is the understanding and validation you might not get from those around you.
Easy-to-read format and concise definitely something I needed x
💙 Grim - loved beyond my measure 💙

[Heather K Veitch · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very supportive read after losing one of our cats recently. Beautiful, uplifting, poignant, and reassuring.

[Mandi Hidalgo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grieving the loss of my kitty soulmate has been devastating, to say the least. I feel fortunate, however, that I keep discovering books that have come to be sources of great help and comfort in this emotionally harrowing time in my life. This book is a wonderful addition to my arsenal against the pain of grief.

[Myriam · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good action items to take when grieving and helpful to know what is healthy grieving and when to know you might need some extra help. Liked the section on tributes and memorials, as in my current state I cannot think of a single thing by myself to do to honor my cat. Some woo woo shit but it’s contained to part 2, so if you’re not into it, you can skip it. Also appreciated that the woo woo shit wasn’t heavy handed in part 2, very general and broad and can be applied as little or as much as you like. Poems at the end were a nice touch. Grateful that this was published recently, came at the right time

[EruDani · Rating 4 out of 5]

Al final se pone algo místico, lo que me genera sensaciones encontradas, pero no deja de ser un buen material para sobrellevar la pérdida.

[Emily Stiffler · Rating 4 out of 5]

I NEEDED to read this at this moment, and it brought me a great deal of comfort. We just lost our beloved cat two days ago, and are absolutely beyond heartbroken. This book was extremely relatable, sensitive and was exactly what I needed in this moment of despair.

[Kat Bair · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perfect Book for the Grieving Cat Companion

This book was exactly what I needed to help me cope with the loss of MaCavity who was the best cat ever. He taught me so much and this book helped me realize that it's the best memories that count. It also helped me better organize my beliefs about what happens after this step of life is over. I've been in a state of unsurity about the afterlife for so long not even certain what I believed anymore. Reading this book and reliving my cat companions life have helped me clear up all of those ambiguities that confused me and made me believe that MaCavity is still there and happy as ever and that he cares as he always did.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I bought this book a few days after I had to put my beloved cat Mickey to sleep after we found out his cancer was terminal. This was the first pet I've ever had to do this for, and I was (still am!) so totally heartbroken and inconsolable. I'm so glad I took a chance and downloaded this book. It was so well written and made me feel so less alone. What's more, I am not a religious person, yet I felt that nearly everything the author shared could apply to me - and to anyone of any faith. An absolute must for any grieving pet parent.

[Queenie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Only took me 2 days to read it as soon as I got it from Amazon. Such a helpful book especially for me who just lost my feline soulmate recently. I was so depressed that I needed to know the experience and healing process of people who went through the same thing. I'm so glad I read this book. Thanks, Liz.

[Danielle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I lost my precious fur baby a few days ago after a brief illness, and I'm still devastated and in shock. I sobbed while reading parts of this book, but I also found it to be a great comfort. I would recommend it to anyone who has lost a cat.

[Monie Forrs · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book made me feel understood and not alone during my grief. I have figured most of the things described in the book on my own, but the somewhat seal of approval it has given me was absolutely invaluable and utterly healing. I am still healing... but this book understands.

[JJ · Rating 4 out of 5]

great insights regarding our best friends. books like this are a good lighthouse in grief moments. truly recommend.

[J.B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I cannot stop crying still, but this book is helping me through the loss.

[Isabel Fontes · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Love That Lasts Forever: Wonderful Ways to Remember a Loved Cat.

Loss can really be a shock!

Liz says that we are becoming more emotionally connected to our cats than we have been in the past.
This deepening bond makes us feel a stronger sense of responsibility for their well-being.
As a result, the grief we experience when we lose them is intensified, making the heartache even more profound.

People today increasingly form strong bonds with their animals, treating them as part of the family.

What distinguishes the cats we share our lives with is their deep and constant presence in our daily routines.
These feline companions are by our side every night and day, creating a bond that often leads to us spending more quality time with them than with individual friends, who may only visit occasionally.
This consistent companionship fosters a unique connection as we share countless moments—from quiet evenings on the couch to playful afternoons. Even family members may not be around as consistently, making our cats integral to the fabric of our daily lives and experiences.
Their unwavering presence provides comfort and joy that is truly unique and special. Real Love.

In this book, the author emphasizes that the grieving process requires time, and it’s crucial to prioritize our well-being during this period.
He also discusses the timing of acquiring a new pet, noting that this is a personal decision. It should only be made after allowing sufficient space and time to process your grief.

This book helped me realize that losing my cat felt like losing a part of myself.
The sadness of not having him in my mornings, of waking up with him on my chest or simply playing with him, talking to him, and interacting with him as I usually did, has had a significant impact on my mental health.
I am grieving for a living cat, and knowing that he still exists but is unattainable to me sometimes leaves me feeling lost.

This book by Liz discusses different forms of grief and suggests ways to cope with it, including steps for accepting it.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and recommend it to all cat lovers facing similar struggles.

[Jacqui Schischka · Rating 5 out of 5]

I cannot recommend this book highly enough. The author felt like a comforting friend that was giving me lots of love, encouragement and soothing words after I lost one of my beloved feline companions, Bruce. After losing a beloved animal companion one can feel so lost and misunderstood but the author reminds us that grief is a normal, natural reaction when losing a close friend (feline or otherwise). A must read if you are grieving, sad or just want some good ways to remember your special feline friend!

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This sweet little book is a quick read and helps when you are hurting and when everyone else is saying, "It's just a cat." We just lost our Snickers, who was 17, along with Tiger, whom we had 15 years and who disappeared one week after Snickers was diagnosed with cancer. Yes, the attachment runs deep, and yes, the pain of losing them is surprisingly strong! The first few chapters in this book were especially helpful. The later chapters contain some "interesting" spirituality about cats living on beyond death, so I skipped through those parts, and took away what was helpful for me.

[Taliah Singleton · Rating 2 out of 5]

DNF @ 67%
it really irked me how often the author would refer to something but then just say it’s in another chapter; it was excessive enough to turn me off of this book. i did cry at the line where she brings forth the feeling of contemplating how others are going about life while yours is crumbling down, i felt very seen in that, but aside from that, there wasn’t a lot of helpful information or anecdotes for me personally. a bit disappointing, but it seems to have helped others which i’m glad for

[Sheri · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was the second book on pet loss I have read since the passing of my beloved Boo kitty 3 weeks ago. The first was a very nice book, but this book....well...when I was reading it, it was like someone had wrapped a warm comforting blanket around me in my sorrow. Her words of love for her cat Bastet, her deep understanding of the pain of losing our beloved feline friends, and her suggestions on things to do helped me so much. Thank you for writing this book!

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you. Your words were what I needed.

After the sudden loss of our cat, Sox, we were devastated. I was searching for encouragement and confident words that life was not at an end, but a beginning. Liz gave me the right tools to handle and deal with my all consuming grief. This book is beautifully written in words and theme that make you feel like your with a good friend.

[Davina · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautifully written book that I highly recommend to anyone dealing with the grief of losing their cat. This book has brought me much comfort and spiritual healing. It’s shown me a glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel at a time when I’m feeling lost in the depths of my despair. I’ll be dipping back in and out of this book as and when I need it, there’s so many useful thoughts and ways to approach grieving your beloved cat.