Creative Ideas to Help Children Grieve the Loss of a Pet

The loss of a beloved cat, dog, or other pet is always a difficult time, and it can be especially confusing and painful for children. It’s important for the whole family to grieve in their own way, but for children, talking about what’s happened and being open and honest is a vital part of the grieving process. Depending on their age, children may not fully understand what’s happening, but they’ll almost certainly feel sad, confused and sometimes even angry about the loss of their fur-friend.

Finding creative ways to help children grieve their loss can help enormously during the grieving process. Here are 21 ideas that can help children of all ages cope with the loss of a pet. 

Creative art projects

1. Draw a picture. Encourage your child to draw a picture of your cat and display it in their chosen room. This activity allows them to express their feelings and create a lasting memory.
2. Decorate a photo frame. Get out the paints, glitter and stickers to decorate a photo frame, and place a favourite photo of your cat inside. Older children might prefer to decorate their photo frame with mosaics or beads.
3. Sculpt with clay. Use clay (or coloured play dough for younger children) to make a sculpture of your cat. This hands-on activity can be very therapeutic.
4. Decorate a plant pot. Use craft supplies and paint to decorate a plant pot, and plant a special plant or flower to grow in it.
5. Create a comic strip or storyboard. Have your child create a comic strip or storyboard that recalls a fun adventure or favourite memory with your cat.

Writing and storytelling

1. Write a poem. Help your child write a poem about their cat– it can be funny, rhyming or more thoughtful and serious in style.
2. Write a life story. Get your children to write your cat’s life story from the cat’s point of view. This is a lovely way to remember their life and emphasise how important the family was to them.
3. Write a song. If your family has musical talent, write a special song about your cat. Singing the song together can be a meaningful way to process your loss.
4. Write an ‘acrostic’ about your cat. Write the letters of their name down one side of a piece of paper, then write one word or sentence that describes them starting with each letter.

Memory keepsakes

1. Frame a photo. Frame a photo of your child (or children) and the cat. They might want to keep it by their bed, or in the living room – somewhere they can look at it and remember the good times they shared.
2. Create a photo album. Make a photo album, or a collage or photos to hang on the wall. Looking through the album can be a comforting activity that brings back happy memories.
3. Create a memory box. Your children can decorate a box and fill it with mementos such as photos, a lock of fur, your cat’s brush, and their favourite toy. This will create a collection of memories and a source of comfort.
4. Make a scrapbook. Fill it with photos, drawings and anything else that makes you remember your cat to create a wonderful keepsake.
5. Sew a stuffed toy. Use your cat’s favourite blanket to make a stuffed toy for your child. Depending on their age they can get involved in the process of making it.
6. Wear memorial jewelry. Purchase a piece of jewelry that you can personalise with your cat’s name or engrave with a few special words. Wearing it will keep the memory of your pet close.
7. Name a star. Name a star after your cat to remember them by. You’ll receive a certificate confirming your star, which your child can frame and hang in their room. 

Special events and acts of kindness

1. Donate in their name. Donate money or supplies in your cat’s name to your favourite animal rescue organisation. This act of kindness can provide a sense of purpose and honour your pet’s memory.
2. Hold a memorial service. Organise a small memorial service in your garden to celebrate your cat’s life. You could plant a flowering tree, choose a memorial stone to put in the garden, or light a candle. Have each family member say a few words about your cat. Create a space where the family can sit, relax and remember your cat whenever they want.
3. Create a tribute video. Compile video footage and photos of your cat into a tribute video. Let your child help with selecting the content and adding music or captions.
4. Tree of remembrance. Create a tree of remembrance on a wall or poster board. Have your child add leaves to the tree with memories of your cat.
5. Cat themed activities. Keep the memories alive with a cat-themed event such as a family movie night watching your favourite cat movie and recalling happy times. 

The loss of a pet is always heartbreaking, and it’s important to help children navigate their grief. By incorporating creative activities, you can provide your child with outlets to express their emotions and cherish the memories of your beloved cat. Each family will grieve differently, but hopefully implementing some of these ideas will give your family comfort during a difficult time. May the pets you have lost, remain forever in your heart!

How have you helped your children cope with the loss of a beloved pet? What other creative suggestions do you have to help kids cope during the grieving process?