Losing a pet can be a heartbreaking experience, and it can take time to grieve their passing.
While there is no right or wrong way to remember your cat once they've crossed the rainbow bridge, many people find that a memorial is a healing way to honour the memory of a much-loved furry friend.
Cat memorial garden ideas
When it comes to cat memorials for the garden, there are lots of lovely options to choose from and many different elements you may want to include.
It's important to consider the space you have available, and to pick a memorial spot that is protected from the elements, as well as passing people and other pets.
Is there a particular place in the garden you associate with your feline friend? If there is, this may be the perfect place to start.
A pathway of memories
A pathway of memories can be a lovely way to lead visitors to your cat's memorial in the garden.
Stepping stones can be placed at gradual intervals to create the pathway, and these can then be inscribed with paw prints or a message to your pet.
The path itself could be bordered by plants or flowers, and decorated with fairy lights. This will give it a personalised, cosy feel.
Choosing a tree, plant or flower
Trees, plants and flowers all make wonderful choices when it comes to your cat's memorial, helping you keep the memory of them close to you as time moves on.
Rosemary is believed to signify love and remembrance, which makes it very suitable for a memorial garden. Zinnias, which come in a wonderful range of colours, are associated with friendship and lasting affection, and pink carnations are connected to the concept of never forgetting someone.
A water feature
The sound of water can be very soothing, particularly during times of loss and sadness. Adding a water feature can bring a lovely sense of peace to a garden memorial, also attracting birds and other wildlife to the area.
Cat memorial stones
Cat memorial stones can make a beautiful focal point in the garden, with many companies offering customised designs and personalised engravings.
Popular options in sculpture design include a resting cat gently being held in two human hands, a curled up cat peacefully sleeping, and a little cat with wings, all of which can be paired with an image of your pet or a message of tribute, depending on what you prefer.
Personalised plaques
Personalised plaques can be used both as decoration within the memorial space, or to mark the grave of your beloved companion.
Plaques and grave markers can come in a variety of materials, but are most commonly found in slate, stone or resin. These are then etched with the personalised message, poem or quote of your choosing.
What should I write on my cat's headstone?
Deciding what to write on your cat's headstone is a very personal decision, with many people struggling to put into words the affection and loss they feel once their pet is no longer with them.
Some people prefer shorter phrases, such as "remembering you always", accompanied by the cat's name and date of birth on the headstone.
Others choose longer, personalised messages, which pay tribute to particular behaviours or fond memories of a pet. Examples include, "may the sun's warmth forever find you in this sacred spot", or, "champion head boofer, much loved and sadly missed".
If you don't have a particular phrase in mind, a poem or quote can also make a wonderful addition.
"Those we love don't go away, they walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near. Still loved, still missed and very dear" -Author Unknown.
"Goodbyes are not forever, are not the end; it simply means I'll miss you, until we meet again" - Author Unknown.
Whatever you decide to include, you can be sure that your cat's garden memorial will be a very special space. Each detail will serve as a personal testament to the beautiful bond you shared with your feline friend.
