Since I was a child, cats have always held a special place in my heart. While other girls played family with dolls, my world was filled with cats — stuffed, plush, rubber ones. I made dresses for them, took them to bed with me, talked to them. I collected postcards with cats, and each of them had a name. I felt drawn to cats wherever I went; I had to pat every single one I passed. And this love for cats never dissipated.
My Journey with Devon Rex Cats
When, 15 years ago, I decided to move to Australia, I already had two Devon Rex cats whom I loved dearly. It was obvious that they would move with me. Alone in a foreign country and a different culture, they were my family and an invaluable emotional support through thick and thin. They were my saviours, and I could not imagine my life without them.
Finding Healing Through Pet Loss
Unfortunately, not long ago, they passed — two years apart from each other. I realised then that I had never experienced such profound and deep grief before. I felt as though there was an enormous hole inside me, a lump of cement in my chest. The sorrow was never-ending, the anxiety consuming, the nights long and sleepless, and the bed empty without my kitty.
After experiencing a huge loss like that, many of us (initially) think of never having another cat again, because in losing them, we lose part of ourselves. And while this hole will never be filled, with time, we gain more acceptance and learn to build life around it. This unbearable pain is the price we pay for those wonderful years filled with purrs, snuggles, and headbutts. Grief is the price we pay for loving them.
How Gentle Purrs Was Born
Gentle Purrs was born from that lifelong love and the belief that our cats deserve to be honoured and cherished through every stage of their lives. Whether it’s the excitement of welcoming a new kitten, the subtle companionship of a senior cat, or the last goodbye at the end of their journey — every chapter matters.
Thank you for being here. I hope you find comfort, connection, and a gentle purr or two in every visit.