The month of May means lots of weddings, proms, and graduations. Receiving that high school or college diploma is a huge accomplishment that deserves to be celebrated.

This milestone is rarely achieved without support from others. Family, friends, and even our fur babies cheer us on throughout our academic journeys and should be recognized for their encouragement along the way. An upcoming high school graduate recently included her beloved cat in commemorating the very special occasion.

@tanya_michelle0He’s been a sibling to my girls for 17 years. Today, he turns 17. He got really sick when my daughter was about 8 years old. We thought we were going to lose him. My daughter made him promise her that he wouldn’t cross over the rainbow bridge until she graduated High School. She graduates in 12 days. Including him in her cap and gown pictures was a must. He has held on for this moment with his sister. He deserves to graduate too. Our sweet old man.. we are so thankful to have these pictures that will be cherished years after he is gone. #catsoftiktok #graduation #classof2025 #fyp

♬ a thousand years – Christina Perri

In the TikTok from @tanya_michelle0, the video begins with a handsome black cat fully decked out in a cap and gown, and an explanation of the close relationship this precious kitty has with the family.

“He’s been a sibling to my girls for 17 years,” the caption shared. “Today, he turns 17. He got really sick when my daughter was about 8 years old. We thought we were going to lose him. My daughter made him promise her that he wouldn’t cross over the rainbow bridge until she graduated High School.”

The graduate-to-be made sure her treasured feline friend was a major part of this special memory.

“She graduates in 12 days,” the caption continued. “Including him in her cap and gown pictures was a must. He has held on for this moment with his sister. He deserves to graduate too.”

The post concluded paying tribute to the devoted cat, saying, “Our sweet old man… we are so thankful to have these pictures that will be cherished years after he is gone.”

Followers were completely moved by the tender story and related to the unbreakable bond.

“I understand. We have a 19-year-old kitty who has stayed for my youngest son,” someone shared.

“My soul kitty did the same. Had him 17 wonderful years,” a fan wrote.

“My childhood cat held on until he knew I would be okay without him. He passed two months after I got my puppy when I was 21,” another posted.

“Soul kitty understood the assignment,” a follower remarked.

Our pets hold a special place in our lives and deserve to take part in our landmark events. Their unconditional love is one of life’s greatest gifts. Congratulations to both graduates — well done!

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