Our Vets are Available 🟢
Dial A Vet Logo
🐾 Pet Health
Blogs
Dog HealthCat HealthVeterinary ServicesPet Health
ask a vet
Ask A Vet Q&A - Free!
resources
Free Symptom CheckerDial A Vet NZFind a Local Vet Clinic
about DIAL A VET
Terms & Conditions
Privacy PolicyEditorial GuidelinesNewsletter
View all Blogs
Over 6,000 Articles
View All Q&A
5,000+ Answers
💵 Pricing📖 How it Works📧 Contact
Chat to a Vet

Question:

My little boy died. He was 4 yo

I'm feeling completely shattered right now, and I'm hoping somebody might have some advice or comforting words. My little boy, my sweet 4-year-old cat named Jasper, passed away suddenly, and I just don't know how to cope. Jasper has been my constant companion since he was a kitten; his quirky antics and comforting purrs brought so much joy into my life. I can't stop replaying the last night in my head when he snuggled up to me, completely unaware that it would be our last cuddle. It's all so surreal and I’m struggling with this huge void he's left behind. I'm torn between feeling guilty for not noticing any signs that something was wrong and just heartbroken because he was so young. How do I handle this overwhelming grief and emptiness? Has anyone else gone through something similar? Any advice or stories about your experiences would really help right now.

Answer:

I’m so sorry to hear about your loss. Losing a pet is incredibly tough, and it's normal to feel a wide range of emotions right now. Grieving is a personal process, and it’s important to allow yourself time and space to heal.



While I can't provide specific medical advice about your pet's passing, I can try to help you piece together some possible causes. At four years old, a pet might face a range of health issues. These can include congenital problems they were born with, undetected health conditions like heart disease, or sudden acute illnesses that can progress rapidly. Sometimes even vigilant pet owners might not spot symptoms that seem minor but can be serious.



To manage your feelings at home, you might find comfort in creating a memory box with photos, toys, and items that remind you of happier times with your pet. Sharing your feelings with family, friends, or a pet support group can also be immensely helpful.



Be alert to heightened feelings of sadness, which is natural, but if it becomes overwhelming, reaching out for professional support is a good idea.



If you have other pets and notice any changes in their behavior after the loss (e.g., not eating, changes in sleep, or seeming depressed), it's wise to monitor them closely.



When you're ready, you might find it helpful to discuss your feelings, concerns, or other pets' health with one of our vets. Booking a video consult with Dial A Vet can provide tailored advice and care.

Answered by

Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet

June 22, 2025

  Book A Vet Consultation
The "Ask a Vet" forum on Dial A Vet offers general information and helpful tips on pet health, but it's not a substitute for professional veterinary care. The advice here doesn't create a veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and our vets can't diagnose or treat your pet remotely. For emergencies or specific medical concerns, always contact your local veterinarian immediately. Your pet's health is unique, and decisions should only be made after consulting with a qualified professional. By using this forum, you acknowledge these limitations and agree to seek in-person veterinary advice for all your pet's health needs. View our content guidelines.
🧠 Related Pet Owner Questions
My little boy died. He was 4 yo
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
BYOP: Bring your own poop?
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Am I over reacting to thinking I've been scammed & receiving the wrong care for my cat the past 2 years?
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Dog at Vitamin D Softgels
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Money Magazine
Australia's Leading
Online Vet
TrustPilot:
Excellent
Real Vets

Thousands of Pet Owners across the Globe rely on Dial A Vet for peace of mind.

Real questions, vet reviewed answers and quality care.

Trusted by 40,000+ users
4.7/5
dog in grass
Ina
Pet Owner

It was so easy, I needed some eye drops for my dog and thinking about going to the vet on a weekend made me nervous about the cost involved. Dial A Vet was a much simpler, cheaper option with faster results. Within 10 minutes of the call, I had the medicine I needed for my dog without an expensive consultation.

25 May 2025
Joanne
Pet Owner

A great fast efficient service with a qualified vet who was lovely and helpful. Thank you Samantha. I was able to sort my dog at 6pm on a Sunday night for $49 - amazing. Highly recommend.

12 May 2025
Lisa
Pet Owner

What an amazing service, at my wits end as I knew my beautiful dog had an ear infection, could not get into the vet for 4 days. Never knew there was vets online until I googled. Within 15 minutes on a Sunday I was taking to beautiful Samantha who diagnosed and treated our Jasper. Only $49. She trusted that we knew our boy and gave us lots of advice. I will definitely be using dial a vet every time and sharing with all my friends and family. Absolutely fantastic kind caring service. 11/10

7 April 2025
The logo for Dial A Vet, the online vet company.

With Dial A Vet, expert veterinary advice is just a tap away. Get fast vet consultations, trusted care, and personalized pet support—anytime, anywhere, all year round.

Dial A Vets uses software that is HIPAA compliant and SOC - 2 Certified.

support@dialavet.com.au

dial a vet owner with cat
dial a vet pet owner with dog in a orange top
colourful pet owner with their dog
40k+
Pet Owners
Fluffy stuff
Terms & ConditionsPrivacy policy
Company
How It WorksPricingBlogFree Online VetOnline VetPet Symptom CheckerFind a Local Vet ClinicFree Teachers lesson plansGasTexts: Free Gas Prices TextedCheersVC
NEW ZEALAND
Speak to A Vet NZ
Our Social Links