Telling the kids the cat has died

Lightdrwr

I introduced myself a couple of weeks ago. My DH and I have been caring for our 3 nieces 4, 6 and 9, since their mom got sick this fall. We have the girls 3-4 days a week while their dad works 3rd shift. Their mom (my husband's sister) passed away on January 15th. Their dad originally was going to hire a nanny but the girls were very vocal about not wanting that so he is sticking to their "regular" routine of them being with us when he works for the time being. They've been doing okay but now that it's all really sinking in and we're experiencing more break downs and questions and concerns. It's been a very, very sad time. We've been very involved with the girls' teachers and school counselors and we're hoping their dad will enroll them in some grief counseling soon.?

Our 12 year old cat has been sick for a little while and was diagnosed a week ago with a brain tumor. His condition quickly deteriorated and I had him put to sleep this morning. We are worried about telling the kids because they have been through so much lately and we're afraid they'll worry which person or animal might be next. We plan to tell them the truth (in age appropriate terms of course) but there's a little debate about when to tell them. Should we tell them right away tonight or wait a little longer? I don't know that it will really make any difference. Under normal circumstances, the death of the family cat wouldn't be the end of the world and telling them wouldn't be as difficult but they've been through so much, we hate to give them more sad death news.?

?Any thoughts???

Sarah G Edwards

No advice, but I'm really sorry for your family.  it's got to be very heartbreaking, I understand why you are concerned about this new news.  Best wishes. 

newwifey

I so wish I had something brilliant to tell you. I really have no advice, just wanted to offer you t&p. I am sorry for what your family is going through.

shiloh17

What a rough time your family has had! Im so sorry. I would def try and tell the girls sooner than later. Could you maybe come up with something like the cat is keeping their mommy company in heaven? Or something along those lines. Would you be opposed to getting another kitty, or letting the girls help pick out a new one? It may help to lessen the sadness, and be a nice diversion for them. Good luck! You and your dh are special people for taking in the girls! Goodluck!