Cats Protection launches bereavement support service
The Paws to Listen service is a free and confidential support line operated by trained volunteers.
Leading feline welfare charity Cats Protection has launched a bereavement support service to help people cope with the loss of a cat.
Launched ahead of Grief Awareness Day (30 August), The Paws to Listen service is a free and confidential support line operated by trained volunteers. It comes in response to figures that show as many as 55 per cent of employees hide their grief for a pet at work over fear of being ridiculed by their colleagues.
“Now more than ever, we’re aware of the need to talk about and process our feelings as a way to cope with distressing events in our lives,” explained Cats Protection’s Paws to Listen team leader Catherine Joyce.
“Yet grieving for a pet, especially a cat, is often not recognised in society as a significant loss. This means many people do not feel they can openly talk about how grief has affected them, which can cause them to feel very alone”
She continued: “For some people, their cat may have been with them through all sorts of life changes, such as having children, getting married or coping with illnesses. For other people, their cat may have been their main source of company.
“It’s perfectly understandable that their death can leave a huge hole and it can be a real struggle to cope, particularly if it’s not possible to talk it through with someone who truly understands.”
The service is available between 9am-5pm Monday to Friday, except bank holidays. Anyone wishing to use the service can call 0800 024 9494 and a call back service is available if lines are busy.
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
