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RL,
Just a few thoughts and suggestions, as a BTDT many times Mom:
AS others have suggested, after you have spoken with them as to what and why it is going to happen, I am sure you know that it helps children if there can be some closure. Just some things we have done - have them paint a small 'memory stone' that you can place in a corner of your backyard ; depending on your beliefs, at this age you can have them write ( or dictate) a letter to heaven so heaven knows all the things the kitty likes and does not like and thus be prepared for kitty's arrival, and then they know kitty will be well taken care of in heaven; if they would feel better,perhaps they would like to have a picture of themselves taken with kitty before kitty leaves and they can help pick out one of those photo frames with a cat theme to put on their dresser; etc.
One personal story :
We have always had cats (and rabbits, and hermit crabs,and fish, and...). When my daughter was about 10 yo - of course, well beyond what your boys will be going thru - she wanted to come in with me to help hold one of our cats when the Vet gave it the injection. The vet wouldn't let her. So, she wanted to make sure I stayed with kitty while the vet put her down. Then, she was waiting in the waiting room with a box and a blanket, placed deceased kitty in it, closed the lid, and she held the box while we drove to the farm of a relative. He let her pick the spot and then we all dug the grave, buried kitty in her 'coffin' and had a 'painted stone' marker. I had braced myself for the worst, as she had had this particular pet for many years. The whole process helped her more than I could have anticipated. The grieving process, and the traditions that go with it, are as important for kids as it is for adults...just tailored to their age and sensitivities that you know best for your boys.
Sincerely,
Another "catwoman",
Roycroft201
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