Sunrise weatherman Sam Mac has shared the heartbreaking news his beloved cat, Catra, has passed away after 13 years together.
“Today was a really tough one — we said goodbye to our beautiful Catra,” Mac wrote on Instagram, alongside photos of the feline.
“Catra was born blind. She had unsuccessful surgery to correct her eyes as a kitten and almost didn’t make it through.
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“No one wanted her. We were supposed to look after her for a few weeks.
“Well, here we are almost 13 years later and I’m so grateful that my home was her home.”
Mac lost his other cat, Coco, just two years ago.
He spoke about how his love for his two pets has been a “truly special chapter” of his life. “Catra was the sweetest soul,” he said.
“Not a mean bone in her body (unless provoked by Coco). She couldn’t see but boy could she feel. A purr like a lawn mower. She loved a belly rub and a chin scratch more than anyone.”
Mac said Coco passed away just months before the birth of his daughter, Margot.
Mac and his fiancee Rebecca James are now expecting their second child.
“Now, we’ve lost Catra a few weeks before baby two is due,” Mac said.
“There’s a big (sentimental) part of me that believes they were guiding me through to my next chapter.”
The TV personality said rescue pets can bring immense joy, finishing his post with the words: “Go well Catra and thank you. You are loved and never forgotten.”
Mac’s post sparked an outpouring of sympathy.
“A big loss mate. Such a special little soul. She couldn’t see the world but she knew she was loved all the way. Thinking of you guys,” TV vet and presenter Dr Chris Brown wrote.
“Precious little girl x,” Seven presenter Kylie Gillies added.
“Oh, mate I’m so sorry. Sending lots of love,” singer and actor Rob Mills added.