Cathe,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I have had two cats in my life, Michael, who died some years ago after we had had him for 14 years, and Twitch, who I've had now for almost 8 years. I mourned for the longest when we had to put Michael down. He was a member of the family and now Twitch is like the queen of the "castle". I really don't know what I would do without her. I understand losing a loving pet and companion. My heart goes out to you and your family.
Take care,
Sanchia