08/24/2026
With the heaviest of hearts, we have to say goodbye to Tessa 🖤
There are moments when being a breeder feels incredibly painful. This is one of them.
Cats are masters at hiding when something is wrong. They can continue to eat, interact, and behave almost normally even when something serious is happening inside. And by the time they finally show us that they are truly unwell, sometimes it is already too late.
Just two weeks ago, Tessa became unwell. She was seen by veterinarians several times, but initially nothing pointed to anything more serious than a gastrointestinal problem, and she was treated accordingly.
Two days ago, after repeating her tests and doing further diagnostics, we finally received the devastating answer. Tessa had cancer, and unfortunately it was already at a terminal stage.
There was nothing we could do to save her.
Tessa was only a 2 year old. She was an absolutely beautiful girl, but her beauty was only one small part of what made her special. She had a wonderful temperament and was an amazing mother to our E litter. She gave her kittens not only her beautiful looks, but also her sweet and loving nature. This is an enormous loss for Natalie and her family, who loved and cared for Tessa every single day. It is also a devastating loss for all of us at Monterini. We are shocked. We are heartbroken. And we are still trying to understand how a beautiful, young cat who was here with us just two weeks ago could suddenly be gone. Tessa deserved so many more years.
Run free, beautiful girl. You will always be a part of Monterini and forever remain in the hearts of everyone who loved you 🤍
Tessa, 2024–2026
Loved beyond words. Missed beyond measure