🐾 Episode Summary
This week on the Golden Whiskers Podcast, we’re sharing a deeply meaningful conversation about pet loss grief—something that can feel especially heavy during the holidays and at the start of a new year.
I’m joined by therapist Chelsea Kramer, who specializes in grief, anxiety, and trauma—and who has also walked her own pet loss journey. Together, we talk honestly about why losing a cat can feel just as intense (or even more intense) than losing a human, and why so many pet parents struggle in silence.
We explore the emotions that often show up after a loss—guilt, loneliness, shock, and exhaustion—and how to move through them with compassion rather than judgment. This episode is not about “getting over it.” It’s about understanding what you’re feeling, honoring the bond you shared, and finding small ways to keep going when everything feels heavy.
📌 In This Episode, We Talk About:
Why pet loss grief can feel overwhelming—and why that’s completely normal
What “disenfranchised grief” means and how it affects pet parents
The difference between being alone and feeling lonely after a loss
What to focus on in the first days and weeks after your pet passes
Why guilt is so common, even when you did everything you could
How meaning-making and simple rituals can help you heal
How hope slowly returns—even when you can’t feel it yet
📘 Recommendations for Cat Owners (and grieving pet parents)
Key takeaways from this conversation:
Take time if you’re able. Grief impacts your body, not just your emotions.
Focus on the basics first: eating, hydration, rest, and gentle movement.
Stay connected to at least one safe person. You don’t have to explain everything—just don’t carry it alone.
Ask for the kind of support you need. Talking, sitting quietly, or simple companionship all count.
Be gentle with guilt. It often shows up when life feels out of control—not because you failed.
Create rituals or reminders that honor your pet and keep the bond alive.
Borrow hope when you need it. Other people have survived this—and you will too.
Consider professional support if grief feels stuck or overwhelming for a long time.
🔗 Links to Chelsea Kramer
Instagram: @chelseakramertherapy
Website & Blog: Chelsea Kramer Therapy
(Chelsea shared that she currently works virtually and may be limited to Washington State due to licensing.)
🧡 Final Thoughts
If you’re listening to this while grieving, please hear this:
What you’re feeling makes sense.
The love you shared was real.
And there is no timeline for this.
Be patient with yourself. Focus on the next small step. And remember—you don’t have to “move on” to move forward. You can carry the love with you.
If this episode feels helpful, consider sharing it with someone who may need it—especially this time of year.
With gratitude,
Scott
Host, Golden Whiskers Podcast
