Saturday, April 6, 2013

We Hardly Knew Ye, Austin

This is the last picture I ever took of Austin.  He was just settling down for his afternoon nap on Thursday.  Thursday night he ran off to the Rainbow Bridge.  He had a great and busy day Thursday.  He ate his breakfast and finished up Spyro's and Oja's breakfasts for them, then he wanted to play.  He chased Spyro down the hall a couple of times.  He and Spyro were great at THoE and Rocio often joined in.  He rassled with Rocio.  He batted toys around.  After nap time I even found out why I sometimes heard Oja give a big hissy, but nothing seemed to be bothering her when I went to investigate.  This time I saw the whole thing.  Oja was ambling along, headed to the kitchen for a bite to eat or a drink of water when Austin pounced.  Oja hissed and Austin ran off, probably having a little kitty laugh to himself.  Lately I had been getting the idea that Austin liked surprising Oja and making her squeal or hiss.  A little later I got out a wand toy and the fun was on.  Austin was standing up on his hind feet to catch the mousie and even leaping up and catching it in midair.  At sundown, he joined in the kitty playtime of more chasing and rasslin'.  He had a short rasslin' match with Spyro.  He ate his dinner with gusto, again finishing up anything any other cat left behind.  The house settled down to the evening routine of some playing and a bit of napping.  I have a light on a timer in the living room that goes on in the late evening.  I set it up long ago so that I wouldn't come home to a dark house from work.  The light going on usually signals another round of kitty playtime.

About eleven I went into the kitchen for a glass of iced tea and saw Austin lying on his side on the floor with Rocio also lying down, resting his head on Austin's haunches.  I thought how cute they looked napping together, though it struck me that it was unusual to see them on the floor.  After I got my tea I was about to walk by them again when I thought something didn't look right about Austin.  I bent down to pet him and check him out and sure enough, he had run off to the Rainbow Bridge.  I picked him up and laid him on the sofa on a fleece blanket and Rocio joined him.  Rocio spent the night on the couch with Austin.  The two of them loved each other as if they were litter mates.  I slept poorly that night and without kitty company.  I think they held a kitty wake in the living room.

Fairly early in the morning, but late enough that the vets should be through with morning surgery, I called to talk to vet about what could have happened.  Austin had FeLV, but he never showed any symptoms of being ill, just the opposite.  The vet told me that from how I described finding him and thinking he was just asleep at first that it must have been sudden heart failure.  He could have been born with a heart defect that didn't cause a murmur or any symptoms until the heart just stopped.  He had just turned 10 months old.  Rocio is heart-broken and spent the day yesterday lying in the pink hammock where he and Austin often napped together.  Spyro spent the day in the blue cat bed by the heat vent, keeping Rocio company, but not crowding him and doing his own mourning.  Oja spent the day in my room, giving the boys their space.  At twilight, Spyro batted the balls in the Turbo Track a few times and Rocio showed some interest.

It was interesting to me to see the kitties comforting each other.  Spyro and Oja had a long mutual grooming session that did not end in a rasslin' match.  After dinner that night Spyro and Rocio shared a chair, cuddling with a little gentle pushing and mock biting.  At bedtime Rocio wanted me to comfort him and let me know by jumping up on me and pushing my chin with his head.  I petted him and talked to him a little bit.  He stayed there for quite a while for him, then left to share a chair with Spyro.  I am so glad that I adopted Austin and Rocio.  Had they been in their previous foster home, Rocio would have had no kitty company to comfort him.  Spyro and Rocio have helped each other tremendously with their grief and all the kitties have helped me with mine.

I buried Austin next to Herman.  Interestingly there seems to be a volunteer flower growing next to Herman's grave.  I was careful not to disturb in when I buried Austin.  I got him a hummingbird light.  If you have seen these solar-powered garden lights on stakes, you will know what I am talking about.  They are basically a stake with a couple of solar collectors in the middle and a clear plastic shape on top.  At night they shine with  a light that changes colors.  I love them and decided to use them to mark the kitties' graves.  Emma got a dragonfly, Herman has a star and Austin has a hummingbird.

You went much too soon, Austin, and we all miss you terribly.  We will see you again at the Bridge.  In the meantime, I know that you will have a blast. Say hi to Herman and Emma for us.

111 comments:

Seville at Nerissa's Life said...

I'm so sorry... so very, very sorry...

But isn't it wonderful that he had such a good, final day? Preparin' for what's in store for him up in Heaven, now, I should think. Endless playing and loving and all the best there is to offer.

Sounds like Austin's passing was quick and painless. It will be hardest on those left behind but just keep rememberin' all the good stuff and you will get through it. I promise.

Purrs,
Nissy

Angel Simba said...

Oh, my, we are so sorry that Austin left you so soon and so suddenly. It is good he did not suffer, but hard on you. Please feel our virtual hugs around you.

The Furries of Whisppy said...

We are so sorry Austin left so suddenly and way too early. It did sound like he had a wonderful last day on earth, and we are pretty sure he'll have just as much fun at the Bridge!
We're glad the kitties are comforting each other and we hope you'll find comfort that Austin did not suffer.

Summer at sparklecat.com said...

I'm so sorry Austin's stay on earth was so brief, but at least he had a good home and great friends while he was here.

The Florida Furkids said...

We're so sorry to read about Austin. You certainly gave him a wonderful life while he was with you and it sounds like his last day was purrfect.

The Florida Furkids

Mark's Mews (Marley, Lori, Loki, and Binq) said...

Dear Karen Jo, Spyro, Oja, and Riocio - We are so very sorry that Austin had to leave for the Bridge without letting you know.

I announced the sad news to all the Birfday partiers here today. At 3:15 EDT, we are having a 1 minute silence and then a 1 minute of collected Purrs Of Comfort to send to you all in a big burst.

~ Iza (and all the others)

Sweet Purrfections said...

We're so sorry to hear about Austin. We know it was sudden and unexpected, but we know he lived in a loving home with you. Comforting purrs for you.

Ivan from WMD said...

Oh no, this is too sad. But we are all glad he had a chance to have a happy and loving time while with you. Our purrs to you and the kids. :-(

Fuzzy Tales said...

Oh, my goodness, what an awful shock. We're so sorry, Karen Jo. We suppose that it's a blessing he had such a good day and then just suddenly died--we all should be so lucky, in our time--but oh, he far too young. :-(

Purrs to you all, and godspeed to Austin. We think he'll watch over Rocio, till they're reunited.

Peace and blessings.

Andrea and the Celestial Kitties said...

I'm so sorry for your loss.
I am glad he had such a good last day. And that his brother has such good comforters. Hugs and purrs from all of us.

Random Felines said...

We are so sorry Austin left so soon. But what a joyful last day....and to know your love for the time he had is a gift. purrs to all of you

Poppy Q said...

So sorry for the loss of your sweet young fellow. Sounds like he had a grand last day, and passes quickly.

Hugs and purrs
Julie and Poppy Q
xxx

Jans Funny Farm said...

How sweet the kitties are comforting each other and you. So sorry for the loss of Austin at such a young age. But glad you had him to love for a time. Hugs, purrs and pawtaps.

Katnip Lounge said...

What an awful shock for you and the kitties! We are so glad that Austin had a forever home and your love before he died...purrs to all of you. We very much like your grave markers, they are so nice that they give light in the darkness.

xx Trish and the Kats

Katie Isabella said...

I have leaky eyes for sweet Austin's passing. I still miss Herman so much. Now Austin has. Gone to the Bridge, Bless him always.

Memories of Eric and Flynn said...

I am so sorry that Austin had to leave you at such a young age. It sounds like he had a lovely last day and went so quickly he never suffered. It is a blessing for him but so hard for those left behind.

The Lee County Clowder said...

Sending comforting purrrrrrrsss and gentle headbutttss to you all.

A few Good Cats said...

It is so sad to hear this. We send comforting vibes and purrayers for your loss. Austin had a happy life with you, and you'll always have good memories of him.

Deb said...

I'm so sorry to read this. He was just a baby. What a shock this must have been for you. I'm happy he was enjoying his life, though. Such a shame to die so young. Rest in peace, dear Austin. Deb

wildcatwoods said...

Austin had a wonderful fun filled last day on Earth. Thank you for loving and caring for him during his brief stay with you. Fly free Austin. Sending many comforting purrs to you Karen Jo.

cats of wildcat woods

The Island Cats said...

We are so very sorry to hear about Austin. His life here was all too brief. But at least he had a great home here with you. We send you all comforting purrs and headbutts.

RIP, Austin. You will be missed.

Anonymous said...

We're so sorry to hear he had to leave so early. He had so much love and fun while he was with you though, and he didn't get sick and suffer. We send love & purrs from all of us.

JB's Big and Small Worlds said...

This made my mom very leaky eyed. We are all sending hugs and purrs to you Karen Jo. Austin had such a great home and much love. We like your idea of putting the solar lights out. Purrs...

Susie said...

So sorry to hear of you loss. Hugs.
Kimo & Sabi & Mommakitty

Tina T-P said...

Oh,my gosh, I was so sorry to hear the news about Austin - how sad for you and his kitty mates. Purrs to all of you. T.

Mo and The Purries said...

We are so sorry for your loss. Sending love and condolences from all of us at Purrchance To Dream.

The Misadventures Of Me said...

Oh Karen, Im so sorry. What a wonderful day he had though. He went on his terms, happily and playing for a full day.

Soar high sweet Austin.

(((hugs)))

Mom Laure

Brian's Home Blog said...

That is just the sadest news, poor sweet austin. Thank you for giving him the love he truly deserved. We will remember sweet Austin forever.

Meowers from Missouri said...

ah, karenjo. so very sorry to read this. what a tender and touching story! i hope i go that way, quietly, no muss, no fuss, after a fun day! blessings on you and all the kitties as you grieve and support one another.

Gemini and Ichiro said...

Oh no! We are so sorry to hear. He was a very lucky cat to have you as a person even if not for very long. It sounds like he had a grand last day- And shouldn't we all have last days like that?

Alasandra, The Cats and Dogs said...

I am so sorry about Austin, while his life may have been short it was long on love and full of fun. And he was able to enjoy it to the fullest for all the time he had. Comforting purrs and love, ~Alasandra, Socks, Scylla, Fenris & Tuiren

Anonymous said...

Karen Jo, I have been absent too long and am so very sorry for this sudden loss of Austin. I remember when you first got the boys and how Oja was so offended that you brought more boys home. And I have watched them grow, play and win over Spyro and even get some plays with Oja. Austin had such a glorious last day and you did as well with him given how much detail you share about that last day. I am sure Herman is right there with him helping understand what happened. many warm hugs, Linda and Savannah

dArtagnan Rumblepurr/Diego Hamlet Moonfur said...

Oh my friend, I am so sorry for your loss. What a lucky boy he was to have been so loved and known such kindness. Fly free sweet Austin.

Marilynn said...

We send our deepest condolences and purrrrrrrssssss. Our servant knows how awful it is to lose a li'l darlin' so suddenly ... no answers, usually. We're so glad Austin had such wonderful housemates and playmates and such a loving humom.

{{{{hugs}}}}

Grace & Company

Angel, Kirby and Max said...

Karen Jo, I am so sorry for your loss. Austin was a beauty and a love. I know you gave him the best life he could have had. It was too soon for him to go, but he was happy and knew he was loved.

Just Ducky said...

Purrs to you on your loss.

Angel MoMo and Charlotte said...

So sorry to hear of your loss. At least he was happy and enjoying himself right up to his last day and went without pain.

RIP, little one.

Purrs and hugs to you, Karen Jo.

Old Kitty said...

We are so sorry to read about sweet angel Austin. He was only 10 months old and so full of beans. What a tragedy. We send you many purrs and hugs. Take care
x

(angel) Grrreta and Fam said...

We are very sorry to hear the sad news about sweet Austin. He will be greatly missed. We are so glad he had such a wonderful forever family and was surrounded by such love and happiness. We send comforting hugs and purrs to you, Spyro, Oja, and Rocio.

Fr. Tom Fish said...

Sometimes those we love much too quickly turn to stars to watch over us. We're so sorry, Karen Jo.

Hugs,
Tom, Mom Julie, Mitty, Tinker & Anastasia

Mickey's Musings said...

We are so sad to hear about Austin.
How wonderful that his last day was super fun for him!
We send you comforting purrs as we know you all miss this sweet kitty.
Purrs Tillie and Georgia,
Treasure,Tiger,JJ and Julie
and mom Nancy

Laila and Angel Minchie said...

We are so sorry and sad for the sudden loss of your sweet Austin. (((hugs)))

Big Piney Woods Cats said...

I am so terribly sorry. I know how sad and upset you are. Although Mistrie left me almost a month ago, it is as if it was yesterday. The only good thing is that there was no suffering, lived life to the fullest and was happy and content. I guess that is all we can ask. Doesn't make it any less painful, though.

Hugs, Toni and the girls

Teri and her Stylish Adventure Cats said...

One never knows how short their time may be...May the thoughts of the sweet life you gave Austin soften the sadness your are feeling with his sudden passing.

Marg said...

Oh we are so very sorry, Karen Jo. That is just too sad. We send you some mighty big hugs. You have had a sad time lately and Austin was so young. Anyway, you sure are in our thoughts and prayers.

My Mind's Eye said...

Mom and I are very sorry to read about Autin's unexpected trip to the bridge. We are happy his lat hours were spent doing things he enjoyed
Hugs
Madi and mom

Baby Patches said...

Karen Jo and the kitties, we are so furry sorry to hear about Austin. Momma says she has never heard of this happening before and can only imagine how heartbreaking it could be. All of you are in our thoughts and I sending many Purrrrrrrs. Austin knows how much he is loved by all of his fursibs and you Karen Jo!

Pip said...

My heart breaks for you and the kitties. They are very lucky to have such an understanding human to care for them.
GodSpeed Austin, we are purring for the comfurt of your family.

meowmeowmans said...

We are so very sorry to hear this, Karen Jo. Thank you for loving Austin so much while he was with you. We know you, Spyro, Oja and Rocio will comfort each other, but we send you all much love, and purrs and prayers of comfort.

Anonymous said...

I am so sorry to hear about Austin running off to the Rainbow Bridge so young. But it sounds like he had a great last day and I am glad the other kitties are comforting Roccio. Hugs to you.

Kate

Roberta said...

I am so very sorry for your loss. Austin was such a happy kitty and passed so peacefully. Your story was very touching. RIP dear Austin.

Jacqueline said...

Karen Jo and all your lovely kitties, we are so sorry to hear this terrible news and know how much Austin's sudden loss hurt your hearts, but we're also very glad to hear how wonderful Austin's last day was spent with you all...Adorable Austin was very lucky to be part of your loving, precious family...Our purrs and prayers are with you all, wishing you guys comfort and peace at this sad time...sending big hugs and much love, sweet friends...J, Calle, Halle, Sukki, Mommy Cat, Daddy Cat

Cory said...

*bows head in honor*

Austin you were so loved and it makes us purr to know that you were happy and loved until the very last second. You will be missed dear one.

xoxo Cory and family

NAK and The Residents of The Khottage Now With KhattleDog! said...

Woo pawmitted him to leave with a loving and purrrrrfekht memory of a great day and a great life albeit short -

I'm sure he's taken your messages to Herman and shared how things are going 'here' -

Hugz&Khysses,
Khyra

da tabbies o trout towne said...

karen jo, sending heartfelt sympathies to you and your family on your loss of Austin. he WAS so very young. may God grant you peace in your heart, and comfort you with the knowledge Austin lives in heaven; free of all sickness, and someday you will see him again. please know if Austin could .....talk....he would say, thanx mom, for everything...and I love you too.

laura and the tabbies

XOXO

Everycat said...

Farewell Austin, young mancat, gone too soon, run free sweetheart, we are so sad to see you gone.

Karen-Jo, this work that you do, helping these little souls know love and a real home is so kind. You have a very strong heart.

Luff and rumbly purrs
Gerry, Mungo & The Ape xx

Rosemary B❤️ said...

Oh my gosh, off and running so fast he leaped right over the bridge.
well, he had the best day, the happiest time with all of you. That right there comforts my heart.
We are sure that Austen was welcomed warmly by Herman and Emma. I am certain they will share the stories of all of the love they got from you
bonks and bronks

Connie - Tails from the Foster Kittens said...

I am so very very sorry, my heart goes out to you and your family.. it is never ever easy losing a loved one.

Dr Tweety said...

We are so sorry to hear abouts da sweet boy Austin. What a delightful itty bitty sprite he waz and so he will be in heaven wit da Herman. The story was lovely and made our hearts break with love and gratitude that there are wonderful cat parents like you in the world. Sending baskets and arms full of love to you and the rest of the kitties.

Dr Tweety said...

We are so sorry to hear abouts da sweet boy Austin. What a delightful itty bitty sprite he waz and so he will be in heaven wit da Herman. The story was lovely and made our hearts break with love and gratitude that there are wonderful cat parents like you in the world. Sending baskets and arms full of love to you and the rest of the kitties.

Cathy Keisha said...

I'm here to pay my respects to Austin. Though I didn't know him, any member of the CB is a furrend of mine. *bows head*

Victor Tabbycat said...

Oh Karen Jo, we are so sorry! It sounds like he had a wonderful last day and went quite suddenly. You are amazing to take in kitties with FELV and give them such a wonderful home! Austin left all too soon, but he had a great time while he was here. HUGS!

Myst and Blackie said...

So sorry that Austin had to go to the Bridge so young... we are so glad that he and Rocio had a wonderful home with you. Purrs....

The Meezers or Billy said...

oh we are so very sorry Austin ran off to the Bridge. {{HUGS}} to you MissKarenJo - we know you loved him and he loved you too. You are such a wonderful lady to take care of these sweet kitties.

Austin, we didn't know you very well but we will meet you at the Bridge one day

Sasha said...

Austin had a short life, but lived it well.
Commisserations to all of you. It is interesting to know how the kitties comforted one another. We also stayed close to Dawn when he passed to the Rainbow Bridge to join Diamond.
Princess Aurora (Shubunkin) for The Pond Fish

Oui Oui said...

Oh, Karen Jo, we are so sorry for your loss! We have lost kitties to FeLV & congenital heart defects, and it sounds like it was Austin's heart. Our Kimba was 3 years old when his gave out. Please know we are purring for you and all Austin's loved ones left behind, especially the kitties. Thanks to you Austin enjoyed a great life, short though it was. Our very deepest condolences.

Angel Junior, Orion and Sammy said...

Oh goodness. Too young and too soon. We are so very sorry for your loss. But we are also very thankful you are willing to take in these FELV kitties and love them. bless you!

Scout and Freyja said...

Sending much love. It's always such a horrible shock to the system when you lose someone you care deeply about so quickly.

caspersmom said...

Karen Jo I am so sorry to hear about Austin. He knew he was loved being with you even though he had a short little life. What a great day he had with the rest of the kitties. Huggs, Purrs and Prayers for you. God Bless.

Love,
Cleo and Mom

Anonymous said...

So glad Austin was WITH YOU. And what a wonderful way to go. . . just having a great day and then slipping off to the bridge. There are so many worse ways.
You are in my heart and in my thoughts. Sending you strength and peace
~Chrystal

The Devil Dog said...

Oh Karen Jo, I am so sorry about Austin. He sounds like quite a character.

Roxy & Lucky will send you some pug snorts.

Roxy

Toffee K. Ripple Fuzzypants & Feline American Angels said...

Oh, Karen Jo ... Charmee and I are both so sorry to hear that Austin ran off to the Bridge so suddenly and unexpectedly. If it is any consolation, he is in good company.
Love and hugs,
Jessica and Charmee

Charlemagne and Tamar said...

We're so sorry to learn that poor Austin ran away to the Bridge.

Sending soft purrs to comfort all of you,
Charlemagne, Tamar and Mal

Terri said...

We are sad to hear about Austin. It sounds like he had a wonderful life, albeit a short one. We're sending hugs and purrs your way.

Ellen in Oregon said...

I was so sad to hear of Austins' passing. A few years ago, I lost my young boycat the same way. My vet said that it is usually a heart problem or blood clot that causes an otherwise healthy cat to die so suddenly. He also said there was nothing that could have been done to save him, even if I had been right there when he collapsed. The fact that Rocio stayed with Austin says a lot about their strong bond.
Austin was always full of energy & mischief. He had a wonderful Mom who adopted him, loved him & cared for all his needs. Austin was really lucky that his new home was filled with other kitties to keep him company and give the occasional hiss or whack when boundaries were crossed.
I will miss reading about Austins' endless energy, how much he enjoyed chasing & rasslin & eating everyone elses food. His last day was filled with all the activities Austin loved the most.
Life is so fragile and sometimes it takes a sweet little boycat like Austin to remind us to enjoy the time we are given here on Earth & that the simple pleasures of life are often the best.
Austin life was filled with love, companionship, games & good eats. Austin earned a place in your heart. Your heart may feel broken right now, but it will heal a bit more each time you remember all the good times you had when Austin came into your life. I am sure Herman was there to greet Austin when he crossed over.

The Cat Guy said...

I can't believe that Austin is gone, just breaks my heart. It seems like only a few days ago that Herman left. MY heart aches for you all. --purrs and hugs--

Forty Paws said...

I'm so very very sorry that Austin has crossed over. Apparently, he wanted to go see Herman and Emma and live with them. Many hugs and purrs and purrayers to you and the other kitties at your house during this difficult time.

Luf, Us and Maw

Angel Ginger Jasper said...

I am so sorry that you lost Austin and so young too. I really does sound as though he had a lovely last day and he had kitty company in his last moments. You gave him a loving home and you gave him love. That is special. Hugs to you.. GJ x

Sushi said...

this is so sad. =(

you went too soon, austin. fly high...

purr...

Cat Street Boyz said...

We send loving purrz, prayers and light a candle for your sweet Austin. theCatStreetBoyz, ICE and Holly(Mom)

Angel Prancer Pie said...

Oh my, there is nothing we can say to ease the pain, but know our thoughts and purrayers are with you and the kittehz. XOXOXO

Fur Everywhere said...

Karen Jo, I am so very sorry to hear about this. :(

I'm glad you have the kitties to comfort you and I'm glad they are helping each other, too. This is just so sad.

Please don't hesitate to leave us a comment or send us an e-mail (fureverywhere @ gmail . com) if there is anything we can do - even if that's just to send a hug or listen.

Hugs, purrs, and prayers from all of us. We will put Austin's badge on our blog to remember the sweet baby.

Carmine, Milita, Jewel, and Sierra (the mom)

Elizabeth Munroz said...

Hugs and purrs.

Gattina said...

Oh, that's so very sad ! I had the same here with Arthur I. He was not yet a year old and I found him dead on the terrace ! I thought he was sleeping. Our vet told us that he had a heart attack and just went to the bridge !
How sad it was ! But apparently it happens.

Unknown said...

We are sorry to hear your sad news. Your post shows the loving home and family Austin was able to enjoy in his short life. Sending purrs to you and the kitties.

CATachresis said...

I am so sorry for your loss. Austin was so young, but obviously had a wonderful loving home with you and a fun filled last day. My tuxie Austin and I send purrs and hugs to you all xx

MISS PEACH ~(^.^)~ said...

Oh dearest KarenJo...we are so sad for all of you on the loss so suddenly of beautiful handsome Austin. Please know how much we care...you gave him such a fine life...his last day sounded purrfect. I am sure he did not suffer greatly and went quick on his journey to the rainbow bridge...my boy Henry went the same way...my heart is sad for all of you. I will post a memorial collage I made on Miss Peach's bloggy for Monday...please let me know if you would like the picture emailed to you.
Sending you soft hugs from the cozy cottage

Mr Puddy said...

Me and Mom are so sorry Austin went to Rainbow Bridge a kind of sudden. I am sending soft purr to comfort you. And special hug to poor Rocio .
Purrs
oxox

Hannah and Lucy said...

We are so sorry to hear this very sad news about Austin. At least he had a lovely and fun last day with you all. Rocio must be missing his friend very much and we are purring for you all.
Luv Hanah and Lucy xx xx

Parker said...

Oh Karen Jo - I am so sorry for your loss. Austin looked like a wonderful kitty...I know Parker welcomed him to the Bridge along with Emma and Herman.

Hilary said...

I don't even have any words... 10 months is way to young to have to go to the bridge. But I am thankful that he didn't suffer and had a great day prior... My thoughts are with you all.

Cat and DOG Chat With Caren said...

omg just heard the news from Alessandra....we are so deeply sorry. Can't even wrap our heads around a baby kitty going to the bridge ((((Hugs)))) and love and our deepest sympathy

Kaz's Cats said...

We're so sorry for your loss Karen-Jo. Austin was so young and energetic, it seems so hard to believe he's gone to the Bridge...

Sending gentle purrs and headbutts to the whole family,

(((Hugs)))

Tasha & Buddy & Karen (Mum)

Milo and Alfie Marshall said...

So very sad and sorry to hear this news. That is way too young to leave you. Sending love and purrs. xx

Robyn and The (Mostly) Badass Cat said...

I'm so so sorry to hear this. *hugs*
The Hotties are sending purrs for your sads.

The Swiss Cats said...

Sad, so sad for Austin... Purrs and huges. Loupi and Zorro

Unknown said...

I am so deeply sorry for your loss of Austin. His time came way too soon. We too lost young kitties to FeLV, brothers Teddy & Toby, just before their first birthday. It's heartbreaking to know that their lives were far too short, but I hope you take some comfort in the fact that Austin did not suffer and that he was having great fun right up until the end. Sending you all healings hugs and purrs xx

TimberLove said...

We stopped to woo our condolences, peace to you & yours in this hardest of times...

RA, Isis & Nanük

Stacy Hurt said...

Stopping by to send our purrs and hugs for Austin.

love and toona juice to your kitties

xoxo
Ms. Stella O'Houligan

Maggie May said...

Our eyes are leaky and we are so very sorry to hear of your great loss. Austin was so very lucky to have been in your wonderful loving care. Please know you are in our thoughts and purrayers during this very sad time.
(((Hugs)))
Maggie May and The Creek Cats

Timmy Tomcat said...

We are sending purrs of support. We are so sorry to hear about poor Austin.

When our Inky passed Me and Toby sat with him in a wake and I was glad to hear that your family sent Austin off with Love!

Team Tabby said...

We are so very sorry to hear of Austin's passing. We all send you our comforting purrs and prayers.

Mindy
Moe
Cookie
Mike

ANGEL ABBYGRACE said...

Our hearts are heavy with sadness. We are shocked like everyone at Austin's quick trip to the Bridge. We send our purrs and purrayers and we'll whisper in the night to Austin that we'll see him again when it is our turn for the Bridge.
(Hugs)

Max said...

Oh no...I am really sorry. It's great that his last day was full of awesome, but still...

Anonymous said...

So sorry to hear! Wish I had words of wisdom, but sending your family prayers

Mrs Mac said...

I am so, so sorry for your loss.
How heart-renderingly sweet that his friend stayed with him and lay on him after he had leapt for the bridge...

I have a solar light on my kitties' patch in the garden too. I can see it from my kitchen window and I think of them and blow them a kiss when I am washing up or making tea.

Sending big hugs to you. What a stunning shock it must all be. I am glad you all have each other at this time. I do know what you are going through. I lost my last kitty 6 months ago, and still cry.

)))hugs(((

Tiger Lily said...

We are so sorry to learn that Austin had to leave you so suddenly, Karen Jo. It sounds like he had a wonderful last day and that he was very fortunate to have such good friends as you and Rocio.

{{{HUGS}}}

prrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrs and gentle tail wags,
Tiger Lily, Sushi and Marco Polo
Mom Rebecca

Angels Amber and Max DaWeenie and Mom said...

I'm so very sorry to hear that Austin has crossed the Rainbow Bridge. Even though he wasn't with you that long, I know you've built up a lot of good memories of him. Yes, animals do grieve the loss of one in their "pack". I've seen it many times with our own.

Oskar said...

I'm so sorry for your loss. What a heart break. Our prayers are with you.

Hugs,
Pam & Oskar

michico*Adan*Lego-小芥*阿丹*樂高 said...

Sending our best wishes to you and so so sorry for your big lost :(

3 kats and a kwiltr said...

On behalf of Taz, Runt and Charles, we extend our sympathies on the loss. Life is often too short and this is the case with dear Austin...
May the memories help fill the Austin shaped hole in each of your hearts.
3 Kats and a Kwilter