I ran over my own cat

This happened to me just the day before my birthday and it was absolutely horrific. I was pulling the car out to go to work and I ran over my cat; I didn't see him in my mirrors or anything. I always make a point of saying goodbye to my dogs and cats, and my cat was just peacefully sleeping. When I start the car, I always make a bit of noise and give the engine a rev, but sadly it wasn't enough and I've killed my own cat. He didn't die instantly and I rushed him to the vet. I feel so incredibly guilty. People keep telling me it's not my fault, but it is—it's completely my fault. It’s just awful and I can't stop playing it over in my head, wondering how it could have happened.

Hello, I think I understand the pain of a situation like this; it’s a real mix of guilt and the images that haunt you. How are you doing today? The same thing happened to my son last week and it’s been heartbreaking—it sounds almost exactly like your story. I think you have to try and forgive yourself, despite the fact that no one is to blame; these are just tragic accidents. I wish you all the best for the future, with your memories and other pets to love.

Hi everyone, Something similar has just happened to me. Two nights ago, I ran over my 17-year-old baby, Moustache. I was reversing out of my space faster than usual when I heard thudding noises under the car. I ironically thought to myself that I must have broken something, but then I looked up and saw my cat screaming on the ground, writhing in pain. It was my worst nightmare coming true right before my eyes. I don’t think I’ve ever screamed so loud in my life. My mum couldn’t understand what I was saying through my screams; I had to make a massive effort to tell her clearly, "I’VE RUN OVER MOUSTACHE." When we called the emergency vets, they reassured us straight away, saying that no blood in the mouth and no open wounds was a good sign. We took Moustache in on a board because we couldn’t lift him, he was in so much pain. He couldn’t move his hindquarters at all. When we got to the out-of-hours vet, they told us they needed to do an X-ray and an ultrasound to see what was going on internally. After the X-ray, the vet came to see us to say that his pelvis was broken and that he was suffering despite the painkillers. She told us that because of his age, the operation had very little chance of working and that we should put him to sleep (I forgot to mention he was nearly 18). His bright eyes, though full of pain, still make me doubt the horrible decision I made. He was old, yes, but he was strong; I’m sure he would have managed to recover from the surgery. Today, I blame myself so much for making that decision. The only thing that brings me a bit of comfort is knowing he isn't suffering anymore. I can't get that sound or the sight of my little darling writhing in pain out of my head. I'm scared to get behind the wheel again. Like many of the posts I’ve read, Moustache was always drawn to cars and I KNEW IT, but that day I didn’t check if he was around because I thought he was inside. I was getting ready to go to a party, even though I never go out. While I was getting ready, he was watching me like he always did, waiting for a cuddle, but because I was in such a rush, I didn’t give him one; I only gave him a quick, hurried stroke. That’s probably why he followed me when he saw me go out into the garden. Everyone in my family knew I was Moustache's favourite person and, of course, I loved that cat more than most people could understand. That’s why I feel so guilty—he must not have understood what was happening. He came to our family the week after he was born, 17 years ago. I’m 22, so I’ve shared my entire conscious life with him; he’s been by my side longer than my little sister. He was so much more than just a cat. When I was little and my parents left me alone, when I was struggling at school, when boys broke my heart... he was there. He was the one who helped me get through the difficult stages of my life. He reassured me, calmed me down, and comforted me. I feel so guilty. I can't get that sound out of my head; it haunts me. He was old and had several health issues. I was preparing myself for this moment eventually, but I never expected to be the one to take his life. I’d snatched him from the road so many times at the very last second before he got hit. He had several illnesses but was starting to get his spark back; he was hunting and playing again. It really wasn't his time. He was so strong. I hoped that one day I’d be able to forgive myself and forget that sound and that feeling, but now that I’m reading your stories, I have to admit I’m worried.

Evening, The same thing happened to me this morning at 9 am. I was pulling the car out of the garage to take the kids to school, and as soon as I’d pulled out, I felt myself go over something. I got out to check and I saw my Tigrou in a pool of blood, his eyes had popped out of their sockets and he was shaking uncontrollably 😭. That image is burned into my mind forever. He was only 7 months old, and I don’t even know where he’d come from. It’s so traumatising.

I thought you were supposed to be leaving the forum? 

Anyone casting the first stone should be sure they’ve never made a mistake in their life, so just be careful...

It might sound harsh, but I’m still right – if the cat had been supervised, this accident would never have happened. Full stop!

@Karobaro, It’s always very difficult to respond to this kind of post. It was up to you to manage the cat and her safety, not a child's. Moving house is incredibly stressful, both for humans and for cats. Of course, you didn’t want this to happen and it was a tragic accident. I don’t doubt for a second the grief that you and your daughter are feeling. What’s done is done. There’s nothing left to do but learn from this for the future. When you’re moving house, you have to be extra vigilant with cats as the risk of them panicking is very real. Thinking of you; she isn’t suffering anymore and wouldn’t have had time to realise what was happening to her.

That reply from @Melib0o is as nasty as it is stupid.

(To use her own logic: it won't bring her much luck, passing judgement like that on other people’s misfortunes...)

I don’t understand people who moan, for God’s sake just keep your cats indoors and these kinds of accidents wouldn’t happen! You triple your cat’s life expectancy by keeping them inside! And that person who actually drove back over their cat to finish it off! Honestly, it’s a disgrace. I’m leaving this forum because reading stuff like that makes my stomach turn. Humanity is absolute shite. I hope karma catches up with you! Bye.