When we first bring a kitten home with us, there is so much hope and possibility in the air.
Not only are these tiny creatures adorable, but we know that we are just beginning an incredible journey together as a pet and pet owner, and as friends.
However, after years of watching our kittens grow, change, live, and love, there inevitably comes a point when our time together must end. While this can be a terribly sad day, we can take comfort in the fact that we shared a beautiful life with one another and that our furry companion is going on to a better place.
Reddit user abernha3 recently posted a photo online of his cat’s final trip to the vet after a yearlong battle with illness. The image has since gone absolutely viral, as it depicts one of the most moving and heartfelt scenes imaginable.
While this couple is undoubtedly distraught about having to part with their beautiful friend, it seems as if their little Andrew is comforting them both, as he holds their hands for their final car ride together.
Scroll through below for a look at the image that is touching hearts around the world.
Reddit user abernha3 recently posted a photo of Andrew the cat on his final trip to the hospital, and it has since gone absolutely viral.
This pet owner writes on Reddit:
“He held our hands on his last trip to the vet. Little Andrew was much stronger than his mom and I.”
He continues:
“Little Andrew was my junior. He was 15 and a half and loved everyone, but just got old and sick over the last year. He purred every day of his life, and when he lost that, I knew it was time.”
“Always sad to lose a friend. Sorry for everybody else’s losses as well.”
While the image of Andrew holding their hands has been moving hearts around the world, it is only a reminder of how important it is to celebrate the time we have with our furry loved ones.
Many other pet owners have taken to the internet to share not only the last photos of their pets but their first photos as well.
Each is a way to honor the special bond that a pet owner shares with their cat.
In fact, looking at these pictures reminds us that not only have our cats grown older, but we have both actually grown older, together.
Andrew the cat seemed to understand that perhaps this was his last car ride with his family, and almost appears to be comforting his owners in their time of grief.
And though he is now in a better place, the love he shared with his owners will live on forever.
Do you have a beloved pet who has since passed on? Post your beautiful photos and stories in the comments.
If you know someone who might like this, please click “Share”!