Beesly

by Katie
(United Kingdom)

My pet cat Beesly was put to sleep today. He was only 3 years old. He was hit by a car the day before.

He was such a little character. He was really clever. I taught him to sit, come, jump, shake paws, give high fives and push buttons. He seemed to enjoy training. He would follow you around the house. He wanted to be involved in everything. He was so affectionate too. He always wanted stroking and a fuss.

We live in the UK, where most cats are outdoor cats. On Monday night, he came through the cat flap. He seemed to struggle. As soon as he got in, he lay down. It wasn't like him. Then he dragged himself along by his front paws and hid under the sofa. We knew something wasn't right and immediately rushed him to the emergency vets. At this point, I knew he was hurt but I didn't think it was too serious. We got him there and the vet came and told us he had internal bleeding and he was in critical condition.

The next morning, we learned the bleeding had settled down but that he was paralyzed. The vet recommended euthanasia. At first, I wasn't sure. I hoped some miracle would occur. But by the end of the day, I had come to terms with it and realized the best thing to do was to let him go rather than put him through any further tests or treatment. We went to the veterinary hospital to see him. Me and my father stayed with him while they put him to sleep. I thought it might be upsetting and thought of just leaving him. But in the end it was very peaceful and I am glad I could be with him. I know that he left the world without pain and with the people he loved.

He was the first proper pet I've ever owned. I got him not long after a suicide attempt. My mum thought it might help to have a pet. It really did. He brightened up every room he came in. He broke any tension with his mad antics. But most of all, he was my best friend. I have Autism. I struggle to make friends. But he would always be there. Unlike humans, he didn't judge. He didn't criticize or abandon me.

I can't quite believe he's gone. I just keep thinking he'll walk through the door any second, ready to play. I keep thinking about all the things we'll never be able to do together.