Losing a cat is not “just losing a pet.” For many people, it’s losing a companion who grew up with you, comforted you through quiet nights, and knew your routines better than anyone else. When the time comes—whether suddenly or after a long illness—grief often mixes with regret: Did I do enough? Did I capture enough memories? Did I honor them properly?

This guide is written to help you choose thoughtfully, without pressure, and without the fear of “doing it wrong.”

Start With What You’re Afraid of Losing

Before thinking about products or ideas, pause and ask yourself one simple question:

What part of my cat am I most afraid of forgetting?

For some people, it’s the way their cat looked—those eyes, that expression, that posture.
For others, it’s physical closeness—the softness of fur, the shape of a paw, the weight of them sleeping on your chest.
And for many, it’s shared moments: quiet evenings, silly habits, or the feeling of being loved without conditions.

Your answer to this question will guide you toward the right kind of memorial gift.

Physical Keepsakes: Tangible and Comforting

Physical keepsakes are often the first thing people think of, and for good reason. When grief feels overwhelming, holding something real can ground you.

 

 

Paw Prints (Clay or Ink)

A paw print captures something deeply personal—your cat’s unique shape, frozen in time.

• Clay or plaster paw prints feel solid and ceremonial. They’re often displayed on shelves or memorial spaces.

• Ink prints are simpler, more delicate, and easier to frame.

If possible, doing this while your cat is still alive can feel more intentional and less rushed. It becomes an act of love, not just remembrance.

Fur Keepsakes

Keeping a small amount of fur may feel strange to some people, but for others it’s deeply comforting.

• Place it in a small glass jar, locket, or keepsake box

• Add a label with their name and dates

• Keep it private—this is for you, not for display

Many people later say they’re glad they did this, even if it felt awkward at first.

Visual Memorials: Capturing Their Presence

Photos and artwork preserve the way your cat existed in the world—not just physically, but emotionally.

Portraits and Illustrations

Custom cat portraits can be incredibly meaningful because they transform a photo into something timeless.

When choosing an artist or style:

• Look for work that feels emotionally accurate, not just realistic

• Decide if you prefer playful, soft, or serious tones

• Don’t rush—this can be done months later

If custom art feels out of reach right now, a beautifully printed photo or canvas can be just as powerful.

Photos With You

Many people realize too late that they have countless photos of their cat—but very few with them.

If your cat is still here:

• Take selfies together

• Ask someone else to take candid photos

• Capture ordinary moments, not just posed ones

These images often become the most treasured.

Ashes, Jewelry, and Carrying Them With You

For some, keeping a part of their cat close brings comfort and continuity.

Jewelry and Small Memorial Items

If you choose cremation, there are options to:

• Hold ashes in necklaces or bracelets

• Create beads infused with ashes or fur

• Keep a small urn or memory stone

This isn’t for everyone—and that’s okay. If it brings peace rather than pain, it may be right for you.

Memorial Spaces at Home

You don’t need a full altar or shrine. A memorial space can be simple, quiet, and personal.

Ideas include:

• A shelf with a framed photo and candle

• A shadow box with fur, toys, and paw print

• A corner with their urn, favorite object, and artwork

The goal isn’t to make grief permanent—it’s to give love a place to rest.

Choosing Between Burial and Cremation

This decision often comes with emotional weight and family opinions.

Consider:

• Do you want to be able to move with them?

• Is there a place that feels truly theirs?

• Would planting a tree or flower feel healing?

There is no “better” choice—only the one that feels right in your heart.

Making Their Final Days Meaningful

Sometimes the most important “memorial” happens before they’re gone.

• Let them break the rules

• Spend quiet time together

• Take videos—not just photos

• Talk to them (yes, it matters)

Your cat doesn’t measure love in grand gestures. Comfort, presence, and familiarity are everything.

Don’t Let Fear Decide for You

A common fear is: What if I forget something important?

The truth is—you won’t forget them. No keepsake can hold the full weight of a relationship, and that’s okay. Memorial gifts don’t replace memory; they support it.