Expert: Justin Choo - 3/19/2008

Question
QUESTION: Hi Justinchoo, I hope you are well and happy! I need your advice, on a different subject this time. My dear cat passed away two weeks ago, after a short but devastating illness. Though I have done all I could to save her, and not to make her suffer -- and so did the veterinary I contacted -- I feel guilty. Maybe I should have been more carful about some previous symptoms I hadn't taken into consideration. I know I do not need to be so attached to her memory, but my heart aches. What can I do to get some relief? She was a very good and educated cat, I hope she's going to be born again, in a better state, maybe.
Thank you so much for your patience...
Lorena

ANSWER: Hi Lorena,

Welcome back.  I am fine, thank you.

If there is any consolation:  it's a matter of time that your cat would eventually die. I am sure she had had a wonderful life.

<<What can I do to get some relief?>>
Easy!  Get another cat.

Smile from justinchoo :-)


---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you. My cat was only two year old. And I think all my grief may sound quite silly. I will surely get another cat. Could you tell me something about animals and Buddhism? I mean, could you give me some advice about something to read (articles or books)?. Thanks again,
Lorena

Answer
Hi Lorena,

I would agree with you that your cat was a bit too young to die.  Buddhism is about life and death, be it human or animal.  There is no book on animals in relation to Buddhism.  The Buddha taught humans, although there were stories about animals being friendly to the Buddha.  In terms of physiology, we are no different from any animal.  The only difference is the mind in humans, having the conscience to think and analyze.  Whereas animals live mainly on instinct.  However, the life-force or kammic energy of animals are similar to humans.  Each life is sustained by this life-force.  The strength of each life-force dictates the type of rebirth.  The Buddha classified animals at a very low level of existence.  Their lives are usually miserable, usually end up as food for other animals.  Just watch National Geographic and you will see the realities of animal lives.

Smile from justinchoo :-)