I know it is extremely difficult to cope with such a loss, and you and your cat, Callie, need time to mourn. Its hard for both of you, and if you want to help her, it sometimes works to bring in another friend. I wouldn't recommend another rusty tabby because Callie will be able to tell the scents apart and think your replacing him. I do suggest possibly getting another male and the best place to look is at your local shelter.

Hi Laurie, I'm sorry to hear of the loss of your friend, I lost my sweet yellow tabby, Tweety one year ago this month, on Thanksgiving day. He had a blood clot in his spine and like you I held him until he passed. He left behind a brother, July and it took some time but we have both began to heal. I talked about Tweety as if he were still with us, I hoped July would understand that I too missed Tweety terribly and after some time he became more relaxed. I have a multicat house now, I have been caring and feeding a feral colony for about 2 years and trying to get them all spayed or neutered but people keep dropping them off sometimes whole litters. I have one kitten about 3 months old that is blind and several that I have raised by bottle and these of course have become house pets, taking care of these less fortunate kitties has helped me a great deal. My pets have all been altered, they are spoiled and loved and it brings a great deal of healing to offer food and comfort to the poor abondoned ones that have never known this comfort. I wish you well and thank you for being a loving and responsible pet owner.