Cats were known in Ancient Egypt as "mau". They played a key role in ancient Egypt. Based on recent DNA comparisons of living species, it has been estimated that cats were first domesticated from the Middle Eastern subspecies of the Wildcat. Evidence of coexistence between cats and humans dates back to 6000 BCE from the island of Cypress, where archaeologists found bones of cats and humans, buried together. Cats have endeared themselves to many cultures for their helpful hunting skills, cleanliness and beauty. Female cats have also been recognized for their strong mothering instinct.

As an agrarian society, the ancient Egyptians had a problem with mice, rats and snakes all of whom threatened the grain stores. It is thought that the ancient Egyptians learned that wild cats preyed on these scavengers. They began to leave out food to tempt the cats to visit them. This suited the cats perfectly as being close to human settlements not only provided them with a ready supply of food (the vermin and the food left by humans) but also helped them to avoid larger predators. As this symbiotic relationship developed cats were welcomed indoors and eventually consented to move in with their human friends and rear their kittens in the safety of a home. Praised for controlling vermin and its ability to kill snakes, the domesticated cat became a symbol of grace. The goddess Mafdet, the deification of justice and execution, was a lion-headed goddess. The cat goddess Bast (also known as Bastet) eventually replaced the cult of Mafdet, and Bast's image softened over time and she became the deity representing protection, fertility, and motherhood. As a revered animal and one important to Egyptian society and religion, some cats received the same mummification after death as humans. Mummified cats were given in offering to Bast. Small cats would often be found underneath women's chairs on reliefs, evoking fertility and sexuality.

When a cat died, the household would go into mourning as if for a human relative, and would often shave their eyebrows to signify their loss. Such was the strength of feeling towards cats that killing one, even accidentally, incurred the death penalty.

If you're interested in the subject, there is an exhibit in the Brooklyn Museum:  Divine Felines: Cats of Ancient Egypt (till December 2014).

We know your cat is part of your family. Kitty in NY offers the best cat care solutions for your holidays and trips. We will help you find a temporary home for your cat while you're away. We also propose cat sitting services (visits to your apartment by a professional cat lover). We have caregivers available in Manhattan, Brooklyn and Queens.

We develop a strong bond with our cat. A cat may share our lifes for 15 - 20 years. They may be part of a very important period of our lifes (a love story, a new city, a new job). When we lose our cat we lose a part of our lifes and it is natural to feel devastated and sad. You should not feel guilty or ashamed, regardless of what people around you might say or think. We collected some tips and advice about healthy ways to cope with the loss of your cat and move on.

Every person is different and many factors affect the loss of a cat. Age, personality and the specific circumstances sourrounding the loss will play a role. If you live alone and your cat was your companion it can be even harder. Everyone grieves in a different way. For some people grief comes in stages such as anger, denial, guilt, depression and eventually acceptance. For others it comes in cycles, varying from week to week. You cannot force grieve, you should accept it and live it. It heals and it is necessary. Still even years after, a certain event or a special anniversary can wake memories and trigger the sense of loss.

One of the most difficult parts of losing a pet is what others think. Some people may think "what's the big deal, it was only a cat, get over it". They assume a pet loss is not as traumatic as a human loss. The important thing is not to argue with them. Seek out others who have had pets and can understand what you're feeling. 

Here are some tips that will help you cope with a pet loss:

• If you have no one available to help you cope with your loss reach out for help. There are pet loss support groups and message boards. Your family and friends might not understand but many other people have experienced what you're feeling.
  
• A ritual can help. Create a legacy, plant a tree, compile pictures or frame your favorite picture of your cat. 
  
• Take care of yourself. The stress of a loss and the feelings of depression can deplete our energy and emotional reserves. Eat a healthy diet, get your sleep and exercise or take long walks. Exercise boosts endorphines which will help you feel better.

Seniors have a harder time losing a beloved cat. As we age we lose many family members, friends and pets. A younger adult may have a family, a job, goals that will help healing. A senior may suffer a lot over a pet loss. Seniors should find new ways of staying connected: do volunteer work, pick up an old hobby, take a class, help friends or family taking care of their cats when they go on vacation. We have many seniors who are active caregivers at Kitty in NY.

For a child the loss of the family cat may be their first experience of death. They may have a strong link with the family cat. For some children, the cat was around all their lifes. It is important to reassure the child. Some may feel responsible, try to explain they did not do anything wrong. Some children remember when they teased the cat and feel it's their fault. Talk to them and explain how the family cat enjoyed playing with them, who had the time and energy to do so. A child might feel very scared when confronted with death (they understand other people or pets they love may die). Comfort them and explain how life and death are related. 

Do not rush to get a replacement cat for your child. They need time (just as you do) to be ready for a new kitten. Each animal is different, so trying to exactly duplicate your old pet will likely result in frustration and disappointment. A new cat should be appreciated fully for its own sake, not as a direct replacement. 

Hopefully your cat still has many years to share with you. Kitty in NY is the perfect solution for your trips and holidays. We will be glad to help you find a loving temporary home in Manhattan, Brooklyn or Queens. Kitty in NY offers the best in-home cat boarding service in the city.