I've lost my share of pets, and it never gets easier. My cats always love it when I read sad stories like this because I then go over and pet them for a while, just to reassure myself. I have a 14 year-old cat, so I know the chances are good that we haven't a lot of time left with him, though he still seems quite healthy. (He's one of the most even-tempered lumps of fur you'll ever have the privilege to meet.)