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“I Adopted My Brother’s Two Bengals When He Passed Away. I Did My Best To Build Them A Cat Jungle In My Basement And Make Him Proud”

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Coping with loss and grief is one of the very hardest things to endure in life, particularly when someone very close to you has passed away at a tragically young age. Hilton Patton from Edmonton, Alberta, decided that the best way to honor his late brother Boston was to build something truly special for the beloved Bengal cats he left behind, and the result is beautiful.

“The cats’ names are Benji and Nala,” Hilton told Bored Panda. “Nala is about 5, and Benji is about 3 I believe. They’ve had a hard time adjusting. Nala’s always been a more social cat who loves people in general, so she was a bit easier, but Benji has only ever loved, or even liked, one person, and that’s Boston. He’s never really let anyone else even pet him. But with Boston, he’d follow him around, jump on him, sleep on him, everything. Benji has only now just started to feel comfortable with coming down and playing with me and Nala.”

“For undertaking the project, I knew he would never want Benji and Nala split up, because he had actually specifically told me that. And I know he wouldn’t want them going to someone he didn’t know or completely trust. I honestly can’t even explain my whole thought process at the time, cause it really was just a lot of pain. Just nothing mattered except for doing something him. Money didn’t matter, my job didn’t matter, nothing mattered.”

“Emotionally, the construction of it I think was helpful at the time, cause I was in an extremely dark place and it was something I could pour myself completely into. All my money, all my time, it went to that. I’m still not out of the dark place if I’m being honest, and I don’t think I ever will be, but being near the cats and getting to see them every day does help.”

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Hilton goes into detail about how he and his friends built the feline paradise below, and if you’d like to help him make it even better, you can check out his gofundme page here.

"I Adopted My Brother's Two Bengals When He Passed Away. I Did My Best To Build Them A Cat Jungle In My Basement And Make Him Proud"

“I know this probably will look quite amateur, and that’s honestly because it completely is. Going into this project, I had literally zero experience doing anything I did, I just knew I wanted to do something awesome for my little brother and his cats.
I had spent all my money and maxed out my cards on all the supplies and the only 2 things I could afford to pay professionals to do was the framing, and laying the turf. Also, I had a good friend do the electrical.
Everything else though, from the drywall, the shelves, carpeting the walls, making an optical fiber night sky, running speaker wire, were done by me and the help of some of my brother’s friends with no knowledge at all of what we were doing.”

“A quick walkthrough of the basement”

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"I Adopted My Brother's Two Bengals When He Passed Away. I Did My Best To Build Them A Cat Jungle In My Basement And Make Him Proud"

"I Adopted My Brother's Two Bengals When He Passed Away. I Did My Best To Build Them A Cat Jungle In My Basement And Make Him Proud"

“Electrical done with outlets in only select places. The house electrical was framed off and made into a mini room to make sure the cats couldn’t get to it or hurt themselves”

"I Adopted My Brother's Two Bengals When He Passed Away. I Did My Best To Build Them A Cat Jungle In My Basement And Make Him Proud"

“Drywalling starts, and not only is it exhausting, but we were also insanely bad at it”

"I Adopted My Brother's Two Bengals When He Passed Away. I Did My Best To Build Them A Cat Jungle In My Basement And Make Him Proud"

“Walls all finished”

"I Adopted My Brother's Two Bengals When He Passed Away. I Did My Best To Build Them A Cat Jungle In My Basement And Make Him Proud"

"I Adopted My Brother's Two Bengals When He Passed Away. I Did My Best To Build Them A Cat Jungle In My Basement And Make Him Proud"

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"I Adopted My Brother's Two Bengals When He Passed Away. I Did My Best To Build Them A Cat Jungle In My Basement And Make Him Proud"

“We start running optic fiber wire”

"I Adopted My Brother's Two Bengals When He Passed Away. I Did My Best To Build Them A Cat Jungle In My Basement And Make Him Proud"

“We really didn’t know the best way to measure it all out for where it would need to go, so this was our solution”

"I Adopted My Brother's Two Bengals When He Passed Away. I Did My Best To Build Them A Cat Jungle In My Basement And Make Him Proud"

“The back of an average ceiling board”

"I Adopted My Brother's Two Bengals When He Passed Away. I Did My Best To Build Them A Cat Jungle In My Basement And Make Him Proud"

“Wires start to stack up”

"I Adopted My Brother's Two Bengals When He Passed Away. I Did My Best To Build Them A Cat Jungle In My Basement And Make Him Proud"

“Wires hidden. I also installed 4 ceiling speakers to play jungle sounds throughout the basement”

"I Adopted My Brother's Two Bengals When He Passed Away. I Did My Best To Build Them A Cat Jungle In My Basement And Make Him Proud"

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“Starting work on the main star system attraction”

"I Adopted My Brother's Two Bengals When He Passed Away. I Did My Best To Build Them A Cat Jungle In My Basement And Make Him Proud"

“The finished backside of the main star system”

"I Adopted My Brother's Two Bengals When He Passed Away. I Did My Best To Build Them A Cat Jungle In My Basement And Make Him Proud"

“1st half of his stars”

"I Adopted My Brother's Two Bengals When He Passed Away. I Did My Best To Build Them A Cat Jungle In My Basement And Make Him Proud"

“Second half of his stars, I did my best to recreate a picture of him I know he loved”

"I Adopted My Brother's Two Bengals When He Passed Away. I Did My Best To Build Them A Cat Jungle In My Basement And Make Him Proud"

“Here’s what it looks like at night”

"I Adopted My Brother's Two Bengals When He Passed Away. I Did My Best To Build Them A Cat Jungle In My Basement And Make Him Proud"

“Before finishing the ceiling (we were a little all over the place) I started planning out shelves, and cut a small little cave for the cats to go in between the walls up high”

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"I Adopted My Brother's Two Bengals When He Passed Away. I Did My Best To Build Them A Cat Jungle In My Basement And Make Him Proud"

“Shelves start going up to see what they will look like, and marking their spots”

"I Adopted My Brother's Two Bengals When He Passed Away. I Did My Best To Build Them A Cat Jungle In My Basement And Make Him Proud"

“Shelves part 2”

"I Adopted My Brother's Two Bengals When He Passed Away. I Did My Best To Build Them A Cat Jungle In My Basement And Make Him Proud"

“Wall carpeting begins”

"I Adopted My Brother's Two Bengals When He Passed Away. I Did My Best To Build Them A Cat Jungle In My Basement And Make Him Proud"

“Shelves put in place over the carpet”

"I Adopted My Brother's Two Bengals When He Passed Away. I Did My Best To Build Them A Cat Jungle In My Basement And Make Him Proud"

“Concrete gets cleaned up and ready for turf”

"I Adopted My Brother's Two Bengals When He Passed Away. I Did My Best To Build Them A Cat Jungle In My Basement And Make Him Proud"

“Turf has been laid! I was super glad that I was able to afford professionals to do this, because they did so much better of a job than I could have ever done”

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"I Adopted My Brother's Two Bengals When He Passed Away. I Did My Best To Build Them A Cat Jungle In My Basement And Make Him Proud"

“What I call the “sh*t pit” set up on a rug so that it could be easily cleaned if needed”

"I Adopted My Brother's Two Bengals When He Passed Away. I Did My Best To Build Them A Cat Jungle In My Basement And Make Him Proud"

“Shelf made and air filter placed above the shit pit to eliminate any smell”

"I Adopted My Brother's Two Bengals When He Passed Away. I Did My Best To Build Them A Cat Jungle In My Basement And Make Him Proud"

“Carpeting all the shelves”

"I Adopted My Brother's Two Bengals When He Passed Away. I Did My Best To Build Them A Cat Jungle In My Basement And Make Him Proud"

"I Adopted My Brother's Two Bengals When He Passed Away. I Did My Best To Build Them A Cat Jungle In My Basement And Make Him Proud"

“Setting up the water feature area. The two plants behind it are fake”

"I Adopted My Brother's Two Bengals When He Passed Away. I Did My Best To Build Them A Cat Jungle In My Basement And Make Him Proud"

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“Finished water feature area. The plants on the right are real, and called Boston Ferns, which was insanely fitting (and why I bought them)”

"I Adopted My Brother's Two Bengals When He Passed Away. I Did My Best To Build Them A Cat Jungle In My Basement And Make Him Proud"

“Buying toys, and other premade cat furniture. Also installed a hammock for me to lay in when hanging out with the cats”

"I Adopted My Brother's Two Bengals When He Passed Away. I Did My Best To Build Them A Cat Jungle In My Basement And Make Him Proud"

“Benji and Nala move in!”

"I Adopted My Brother's Two Bengals When He Passed Away. I Did My Best To Build Them A Cat Jungle In My Basement And Make Him Proud"

"I Adopted My Brother's Two Bengals When He Passed Away. I Did My Best To Build Them A Cat Jungle In My Basement And Make Him Proud"

“Nala getting comfy”

"I Adopted My Brother's Two Bengals When He Passed Away. I Did My Best To Build Them A Cat Jungle In My Basement And Make Him Proud"

“Benji loves the wall cave”

"I Adopted My Brother's Two Bengals When He Passed Away. I Did My Best To Build Them A Cat Jungle In My Basement And Make Him Proud"

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"I Adopted My Brother's Two Bengals When He Passed Away. I Did My Best To Build Them A Cat Jungle In My Basement And Make Him Proud"

“They realize they can climb the walls, and they love it”

"I Adopted My Brother's Two Bengals When He Passed Away. I Did My Best To Build Them A Cat Jungle In My Basement And Make Him Proud"

"I Adopted My Brother's Two Bengals When He Passed Away. I Did My Best To Build Them A Cat Jungle In My Basement And Make Him Proud"

“The basement has the cats in now, But it’s still missing a lot of what I hope to eventually add when I save enough money. Also, stop here if you don’t want things to get emotional”

"I Adopted My Brother's Two Bengals When He Passed Away. I Did My Best To Build Them A Cat Jungle In My Basement And Make Him Proud"

“This is my little brother Boston. I did all of this for him. I wish he could see it. He passed away on Feb 03, 2018 from suicide. I love him and miss him more than words can possibly describe”

"I Adopted My Brother's Two Bengals When He Passed Away. I Did My Best To Build Them A Cat Jungle In My Basement And Make Him Proud"

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"I Adopted My Brother's Two Bengals When He Passed Away. I Did My Best To Build Them A Cat Jungle In My Basement And Make Him Proud"

“I love you buddy. The pain hasn’t stopped for a single second since you left”

"I Adopted My Brother's Two Bengals When He Passed Away. I Did My Best To Build Them A Cat Jungle In My Basement And Make Him Proud"

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Karolina Wv

This lazy panda forgot to write something about itself.

This lazy panda forgot to write something about itself.

What do you think ?

Jean van der Merwe 5 years ago

There could not be a more beautiful tribute to the life of your brother than this. You are bringing joy to the creatures that mattered to him. I was deeply touched by this. I wouldn’t be so sure that he does not see this anyway. I think something of us survives, even when we check out a bit earlier. I wish you healing and light.

53points

TheReader19 5 years ago

This is so sad, I believe that a family member committing suicide must be one of the most painful losses you could go through with so many questions why and feelings of guilt. Nice that he was able to take the cats and give them a great home.

42points

Bluebird11 5 years ago

If you're thinking your family/friends would be better off with you gone, please think again. Years ago, I had a chummy co-worker who killed herself & it still bugs me. Imagine the kind of pain it causes to people closer to you & call The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (800-273-8255) instead.

17points

morgan jeffries 5 years ago

My workmate killed himself last month. Although I was only a small part of his life, I still feel hollow and useless. Can't imagine what his family and friends feel like.

8points

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Nikki D 5 years ago

Thanks for sharing your amazing setup, your brother would be so proud. I'm so sorry for your loss and I'm glad you got to keep a peice of him through his cats. What an amazing way to turn your grief into something productive and worthwhile!

11points

Purple Potato 5 years ago

Amazing , supercool, if I were a cat I'd want to live there!

10points

Madonna Rose 5 years ago

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Pamela24 5 years ago

“I know this probably will look quite amateur..." Are you kidding me? :) It looks so cool and proffesional!

10points

Night Owl 5 years ago (edited)

Amazing work and a great way to turn your grief into a tribute. Your brother would be proud. I just hope the bengals get more natural sunlight. Maybe by letting them explore the rest of the house from time to time or taking them for a walk on leashes (if they let you). Cats love basking in the sunshine.

9points

Aunt Messy 5 years ago

It would be just like a cat to take a look at that basement and then go hang out in the sunny window in the living room. However - Bengals are big athletic cats that are generally pretty intelligent. They get bored easily and they need to be active. Having a play room like this is wonderful for them. Plus, the wall climbing thing is really cute.

10points

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Bobbi Newell 5 years ago

This is an awesome setup! Bengals are insanely active, and he clearly understands the cats' needs. He spent his money in the best way possible - good framing gives the support, and the turf looks fantastic (and obviously it's been cat-approved). Now that he's got the basics in, he can take his time deciding how to add to it. I'm sorry for his loss; I have lost a couple friends to suicide, and know the pain he and his family are experiencing. This room is a great tribute to his brother.

8points

violetta 5 years ago

Your tribute to your brother is so deeply wonderful, thoughtful, and creative. The fiber optics are amazing!! This is such a fantastic project. The three of you will grieve there, love, cry, be close and remember. Peace.

8points

Amanda Panda 5 years ago

Nothing would please me more than the people who love me taking care of my pets if I were no longer around.

7points

Reilly Beryll 5 years ago

This is an emotional and beautiful creation. The room makes a great memorial. I’m sorry for the loss. I’m certain your brother would love it.

7points

Dorothy Parker 5 years ago (edited)

Very dear and moving. Boston in the night sky is very special and a lovely tribute. I am always so sad when people try to find homes for unwanted animals. This is the way to do it. Are the kitties allowed above stairs, or just in the basement? If they know what soap or aftershave or lotions Boston used, they might use them as a way to comfort the kitties.

6points

LilicatUK 5 years ago

I hope you find a small comfort in the fact that nothing would make your brother happier than to know his kitties are so well cared for! They are gorgeous. You are awesome.

6points

Grumble O'Pug 5 years ago

So heartbreaking and what a beautiful way to honor him.

6points

Nice 5 years ago

This is so cute

6points

Jenny Gordon 5 years ago

I've just made a donation. I can't afford much, but his story has touched my heart and I wanted to help.

5points

lunanoir69 5 years ago

Bless you, Hilton, for doing this for your brother"s cats. My heart hurts for your loss.

5points

bademlicikolatta 5 years ago

My god. Made me cry :(

5points

Mary Hunt Peret 5 years ago

I'm so sorry about your brother. I lost my brother in 2011, and adopted his two dogs. It helped a lot with the grief to have them, knowing he loved them greatly. You have done an amazing job for the cats!

5points

Leigh Zamparelli 5 years ago

Sorry for your loss xxx

2points

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Pan39 5 years ago

Super neat! Good job. Just a exquisite project

5points

Sandi 5 years ago

Wow! That's a cat palace! I know that was expensive too. Just one of those cat trees can cost up to a hundred. That's why my cat doesn't have one. U could have a couple more cats there living in luxury, easy! I was always trying to get my ex to start building those trees and selling them online or something.

4points

Amanda Abel 5 years ago

;;;;;;;;;;; WHAT A FANTASTIC TRIBUTE. YOU DID AN AMAZING JOB. MAY HE BE AT PEACE AND AGAIN, IT LOOKS LIKE CAT PARADISE. DO THEY ENJOY THE JUNGLE MUSIC I WONDER? BE WELL!!! ;

4points

Kelly Murray 5 years ago

Wow. Awesome job!

4points

Trisha Dragon 5 years ago

I love that you understand these aren't kitty cats. Thank you for not abusing them by treating them as something they are not. Your brother must have been very special to have gained the love and trust of Benji. A large male Bengals trust and affection is a rare and difficult prize to earn. Sounds like you're on your way. I live in that dark place you currently reside. I hope you find your way out. In the mean time remember life can be good without being happy. Hold to that when it feels like there is nothing else.

3points

Magpie 5 years ago

I believe this web site >>>https://www.metanoia.org/suicide/<<< is very worth knowing about. in case u or someone you know is feeling really bad.

3points

Brooke 5 years ago

What a beautiful labor of love. Everyone can clearly see how much you love/loved your brother. I'm so sorry for your loss. You r vision came together perfectly.

3points

Maggie Gee 5 years ago

this is stunning. any kitty would love to have half of this. well done.

3points

Misterscooter 5 years ago

So sorry for your loss. This is a nice tribute.

3points

Annina Aleksandra 5 years ago

Amazing job, your brother would have been proud. The cats will love it. We have four cats and I just hope we had the space to do something like this.

3points

Midnightoil 5 years ago

Amazing!! I hope your heart heals- you are an amazing brother( or sister) and these cats are lucky to have you! Good wishes.

3points

Marika Stanway 5 years ago

I’m so so sorry you lost your brother. Long may these beautiful babies stay with you and give you their unconditional love. That’s one EPIC cattery ❤️

3points

Rebekah 5 years ago

I am proud of you. Well done. And I'm so sorry.

3points

Jayme Williams 5 years ago

What an amazing thing to build in honor of your brother! These cats were so lucky to end up with you. So sorry for the loss of your brother.

3points

Lilith Hollis 5 years ago

Hi Hilton I am so sorry for your loss I have a Bengal he's 6 months old now as our children are all grown up he is our baby he has his own room to run around in and we have built a space in our garden where he can play safely what you have done is amazing and I know your brother will be around and will be very happy at what you have done for his Bengals take care

2points

Teraza Rew 5 years ago

You will never forget but the pain does ease up with time. Bless you for being so productive and I think you have done a beautiful job. Hugs.

2points

Jovy Jergens 5 years ago

You are a good brother!

2points

Elaine16 5 years ago

My heart goes out to you as you suffer through your loss. But, thankfully, you found a beautiful and positive way to direct your grief. You gave yourself a purpose and it's a good one, one I'm sure your brother appreciates. As long as the person we lost is in our heart and mind, they're not truly gone. Your devotion and efforts work for you. May you soon find peace.

2points

Janelle Collard Premium 5 years ago

I'm so sorry for your loss.

2points

Lee from Phoenix 5 years ago

You are a great guy to do something so nice for the cats. They are lucky to have you.

2points

Janine Randall 5 years ago

What an achingly beautiful tribute to your brother. I hope you find peace through his treasured cats.

2points

K. LNU 5 years ago

What a wonderful way to remember, and give the cats a good home! And again... that sneaky OCN (onion-cutting ninja) strikes again!

2points

Augie Snyder 5 years ago

i hit the return key on my comment forgetting that's an automatic post in facebook. i wanted to say that i'm sorry for the loss of your brother and thank you for taking his cats.

2points

Leigh Zamparelli 5 years ago

You are amazing! What a beautiful way to pay tribute to your brother via his beloved pets. I really love the star portrait you did x

2points

Trish Christoffersen 5 years ago

You truly are an angel on this earth. I am so sorry for your loss, but I know Boston is looking down on your and the cats and grinning from ear to ear.

2points

Constantin George-Florin 5 years ago

Gorgeous cats. They do help with the pain and grief, it's what they do.

2points

Ian Sirota 5 years ago

My heart goes out to this man for his pain. I hope that this building project, and the knowledge that he is giving his brother's cats a beautiful home, gives him some comfort in a time of incredible sorrow.

2points

Ashley Say Wha?!? 5 years ago

Those carpeted walls are genius for them, especially since they are a very active cat breed. I bet they love it. In fact, can I move in also?

2points

Magpie 5 years ago

You have done a fantastic job*. My sister killed herself. It is a hard and difficult grief. Please look after yourself as well as the cats. Your brother would want you to be safe and having good times. No matter how crazy you may feel; remember grief makes us feel crazy and we all do it a bit differently. And you WILL adapt to your changed life. Hang in there. * My cats would be envious! I am impressed and envious.

2points

Ms Phit 5 years ago

What a lovely tribute- how sad that his little brother couldn't find the hope to see another day. Depression is a monster

2points

Jasmine Sunflower Laake 5 years ago

Omg I thought it was about Bengal Tigers too at first and looked at the tiny ledges and just thought to myself, "HOW?". Also I wonder why his brother did that, considering from the pictures he seemed generally really happy and must have been well off to have two cats of that expensive breed.... Nonetheless, those kitties seem super happy now and I'm glad for them!

2points

Elaine Kuppler 5 years ago

How wonderful! Prayers for some peace. My father killed himself so I'm familiar with the pain. I had a Bengal named Stella. She would have loved your basement.

1point

Augie Snyder 5 years ago

cool area for the, but do they get to go in other parts of the house or just live in the basement? they need human interaction and to be able to at least see outside and get sunshine even if thru a window.

1point

Susan Bellantonio 5 years ago

You are an amazing hooman that you did this for your brother...no matter what anyone thinks that's who it's for...those two kitties are so lucky to have you. I think I love you <3

1point

julez 5 years ago

Just... wow, respect! 😮😍

1point

Laura Stehle 5 years ago

I am so sorry for your loss. You are an amazing brother and a fine example for the rest of us. I'm sure he is in heaven and is grateful for you. I was thinking maybe a fishtank with some tasty looking fishes for the kitties to look at.

1point

Isla Reyne 5 years ago

excellent ! All that's missing is a raised box of real grass/catnip since they can't go outdoors

1point

Jill Bussey 2 years ago

The cats know you prepared their jungle with love. I am sure your brother loves it too.

0points

Sandi 5 years ago

Why not build them one of these catios so they can sit outside too? Cut a little hole in the wall and build a big cage attached to the house. They will definitely like that when the sun is out. Cats love sleeping in the sun.

0points

Alusair Alustriel 5 years ago

All great, but do the cats permamently reside there and only there? There is literally one small window giving next to none daylight. If the cats are being help only in the basement, then it's really miserable in a long shot.

0points

Trisha Dragon 5 years ago

These are Bengals not cats. Shush you're peddling dangerous ignorance.

3points

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Teleri Nyfain 5 years ago

Awesome!

0points

Jim Day 5 years ago

Good on ya mate!!!!

0points

Hallak65 5 years ago

where the potato?

0points

Sandi 5 years ago

If u really want to have fun, get a couple of kittens in there. Their energy is insane and make you laugh so much. :)

0points

SirWriteALot 5 years ago

Don't cats need sunlight, too?

-1point

Lily Mae Kitty 5 years ago

things I like and things I don't like. The smell isn't a darn problem when you take care of it daily like a pet owner is supposed to. Use the clumping stuff and scoop that stuff out every single day. do you want to pee and s**t in yesterdays pee and s**t?? And cats need views! all this dark green carpet is crazy. Are you going to vacuum this all the time all the way to the ceiling?? This room is a cleaning nightmare and will be full of cat fur in a week and be a breathing hazard in a month. I understand you meant well but I don't think you did your homework about parts of it. Hoping they have the run of the house and this is just a playroom.

-2points

Madonna Rose 5 years ago

Adding...where is the easy chair that you will sit in to give them the quality time and love your brother gave them ...a basement....really...this is wrong...my cats would be crying for me ...the thought just tears me up for these beautiful animals.being isolated.

-2points

Marina Rios 5 years ago

It says the hammock is for him, and these are bengals, they have different needs to regular cats

1point

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Madonna Rose 5 years ago

It’s a nice thought but....how sad they’ll spend 85% of the rest of their lives alone in a basement with no love or human contact...this is not right...why couldn’t they have just lived upstairs with you????

-2points

Vonskippy 5 years ago

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Jean van der Merwe 5 years ago

There could not be a more beautiful tribute to the life of your brother than this. You are bringing joy to the creatures that mattered to him. I was deeply touched by this. I wouldn’t be so sure that he does not see this anyway. I think something of us survives, even when we check out a bit earlier. I wish you healing and light.

53points

TheReader19 5 years ago

This is so sad, I believe that a family member committing suicide must be one of the most painful losses you could go through with so many questions why and feelings of guilt. Nice that he was able to take the cats and give them a great home.

42points

Bluebird11 5 years ago

If you're thinking your family/friends would be better off with you gone, please think again. Years ago, I had a chummy co-worker who killed herself & it still bugs me. Imagine the kind of pain it causes to people closer to you & call The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (800-273-8255) instead.

17points

morgan jeffries 5 years ago

My workmate killed himself last month. Although I was only a small part of his life, I still feel hollow and useless. Can't imagine what his family and friends feel like.

8points

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Nikki D 5 years ago

Thanks for sharing your amazing setup, your brother would be so proud. I'm so sorry for your loss and I'm glad you got to keep a peice of him through his cats. What an amazing way to turn your grief into something productive and worthwhile!

11points

Purple Potato 5 years ago

Amazing , supercool, if I were a cat I'd want to live there!

10points

Madonna Rose 5 years ago

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Pamela24 5 years ago

“I know this probably will look quite amateur..." Are you kidding me? :) It looks so cool and proffesional!

10points

Night Owl 5 years ago (edited)

Amazing work and a great way to turn your grief into a tribute. Your brother would be proud. I just hope the bengals get more natural sunlight. Maybe by letting them explore the rest of the house from time to time or taking them for a walk on leashes (if they let you). Cats love basking in the sunshine.

9points

Aunt Messy 5 years ago

It would be just like a cat to take a look at that basement and then go hang out in the sunny window in the living room. However - Bengals are big athletic cats that are generally pretty intelligent. They get bored easily and they need to be active. Having a play room like this is wonderful for them. Plus, the wall climbing thing is really cute.

10points

Load More Replies...

Bobbi Newell 5 years ago

This is an awesome setup! Bengals are insanely active, and he clearly understands the cats' needs. He spent his money in the best way possible - good framing gives the support, and the turf looks fantastic (and obviously it's been cat-approved). Now that he's got the basics in, he can take his time deciding how to add to it. I'm sorry for his loss; I have lost a couple friends to suicide, and know the pain he and his family are experiencing. This room is a great tribute to his brother.

8points

violetta 5 years ago

Your tribute to your brother is so deeply wonderful, thoughtful, and creative. The fiber optics are amazing!! This is such a fantastic project. The three of you will grieve there, love, cry, be close and remember. Peace.

8points

Amanda Panda 5 years ago

Nothing would please me more than the people who love me taking care of my pets if I were no longer around.

7points

Reilly Beryll 5 years ago

This is an emotional and beautiful creation. The room makes a great memorial. I’m sorry for the loss. I’m certain your brother would love it.

7points

Dorothy Parker 5 years ago (edited)

Very dear and moving. Boston in the night sky is very special and a lovely tribute. I am always so sad when people try to find homes for unwanted animals. This is the way to do it. Are the kitties allowed above stairs, or just in the basement? If they know what soap or aftershave or lotions Boston used, they might use them as a way to comfort the kitties.

6points

LilicatUK 5 years ago

I hope you find a small comfort in the fact that nothing would make your brother happier than to know his kitties are so well cared for! They are gorgeous. You are awesome.

6points

Grumble O'Pug 5 years ago

So heartbreaking and what a beautiful way to honor him.

6points

Nice 5 years ago

This is so cute

6points

Jenny Gordon 5 years ago

I've just made a donation. I can't afford much, but his story has touched my heart and I wanted to help.

5points

lunanoir69 5 years ago

Bless you, Hilton, for doing this for your brother"s cats. My heart hurts for your loss.

5points

bademlicikolatta 5 years ago

My god. Made me cry :(

5points

Mary Hunt Peret 5 years ago

I'm so sorry about your brother. I lost my brother in 2011, and adopted his two dogs. It helped a lot with the grief to have them, knowing he loved them greatly. You have done an amazing job for the cats!

5points

Leigh Zamparelli 5 years ago

Sorry for your loss xxx

2points

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Pan39 5 years ago

Super neat! Good job. Just a exquisite project

5points

Sandi 5 years ago

Wow! That's a cat palace! I know that was expensive too. Just one of those cat trees can cost up to a hundred. That's why my cat doesn't have one. U could have a couple more cats there living in luxury, easy! I was always trying to get my ex to start building those trees and selling them online or something.

4points

Amanda Abel 5 years ago

;;;;;;;;;;; WHAT A FANTASTIC TRIBUTE. YOU DID AN AMAZING JOB. MAY HE BE AT PEACE AND AGAIN, IT LOOKS LIKE CAT PARADISE. DO THEY ENJOY THE JUNGLE MUSIC I WONDER? BE WELL!!! ;

4points

Kelly Murray 5 years ago

Wow. Awesome job!

4points

Trisha Dragon 5 years ago

I love that you understand these aren't kitty cats. Thank you for not abusing them by treating them as something they are not. Your brother must have been very special to have gained the love and trust of Benji. A large male Bengals trust and affection is a rare and difficult prize to earn. Sounds like you're on your way. I live in that dark place you currently reside. I hope you find your way out. In the mean time remember life can be good without being happy. Hold to that when it feels like there is nothing else.

3points

Magpie 5 years ago

I believe this web site >>>https://www.metanoia.org/suicide/<<< is very worth knowing about. in case u or someone you know is feeling really bad.

3points

Brooke 5 years ago

What a beautiful labor of love. Everyone can clearly see how much you love/loved your brother. I'm so sorry for your loss. You r vision came together perfectly.

3points

Maggie Gee 5 years ago

this is stunning. any kitty would love to have half of this. well done.

3points

Misterscooter 5 years ago

So sorry for your loss. This is a nice tribute.

3points

Annina Aleksandra 5 years ago

Amazing job, your brother would have been proud. The cats will love it. We have four cats and I just hope we had the space to do something like this.

3points

Midnightoil 5 years ago

Amazing!! I hope your heart heals- you are an amazing brother( or sister) and these cats are lucky to have you! Good wishes.

3points

Marika Stanway 5 years ago

I’m so so sorry you lost your brother. Long may these beautiful babies stay with you and give you their unconditional love. That’s one EPIC cattery ❤️

3points

Rebekah 5 years ago

I am proud of you. Well done. And I'm so sorry.

3points

Jayme Williams 5 years ago

What an amazing thing to build in honor of your brother! These cats were so lucky to end up with you. So sorry for the loss of your brother.

3points

Lilith Hollis 5 years ago

Hi Hilton I am so sorry for your loss I have a Bengal he's 6 months old now as our children are all grown up he is our baby he has his own room to run around in and we have built a space in our garden where he can play safely what you have done is amazing and I know your brother will be around and will be very happy at what you have done for his Bengals take care

2points

Teraza Rew 5 years ago

You will never forget but the pain does ease up with time. Bless you for being so productive and I think you have done a beautiful job. Hugs.

2points

Jovy Jergens 5 years ago

You are a good brother!

2points

Elaine16 5 years ago

My heart goes out to you as you suffer through your loss. But, thankfully, you found a beautiful and positive way to direct your grief. You gave yourself a purpose and it's a good one, one I'm sure your brother appreciates. As long as the person we lost is in our heart and mind, they're not truly gone. Your devotion and efforts work for you. May you soon find peace.

2points

Janelle Collard Premium 5 years ago

I'm so sorry for your loss.

2points

Lee from Phoenix 5 years ago

You are a great guy to do something so nice for the cats. They are lucky to have you.

2points

Janine Randall 5 years ago

What an achingly beautiful tribute to your brother. I hope you find peace through his treasured cats.

2points

K. LNU 5 years ago

What a wonderful way to remember, and give the cats a good home! And again... that sneaky OCN (onion-cutting ninja) strikes again!

2points

Augie Snyder 5 years ago

i hit the return key on my comment forgetting that's an automatic post in facebook. i wanted to say that i'm sorry for the loss of your brother and thank you for taking his cats.

2points

Leigh Zamparelli 5 years ago

You are amazing! What a beautiful way to pay tribute to your brother via his beloved pets. I really love the star portrait you did x

2points

Trish Christoffersen 5 years ago

You truly are an angel on this earth. I am so sorry for your loss, but I know Boston is looking down on your and the cats and grinning from ear to ear.

2points

Constantin George-Florin 5 years ago

Gorgeous cats. They do help with the pain and grief, it's what they do.

2points

Ian Sirota 5 years ago

My heart goes out to this man for his pain. I hope that this building project, and the knowledge that he is giving his brother's cats a beautiful home, gives him some comfort in a time of incredible sorrow.

2points

Ashley Say Wha?!? 5 years ago

Those carpeted walls are genius for them, especially since they are a very active cat breed. I bet they love it. In fact, can I move in also?

2points

Magpie 5 years ago

You have done a fantastic job*. My sister killed herself. It is a hard and difficult grief. Please look after yourself as well as the cats. Your brother would want you to be safe and having good times. No matter how crazy you may feel; remember grief makes us feel crazy and we all do it a bit differently. And you WILL adapt to your changed life. Hang in there. * My cats would be envious! I am impressed and envious.

2points

Ms Phit 5 years ago

What a lovely tribute- how sad that his little brother couldn't find the hope to see another day. Depression is a monster

2points

Jasmine Sunflower Laake 5 years ago

Omg I thought it was about Bengal Tigers too at first and looked at the tiny ledges and just thought to myself, "HOW?". Also I wonder why his brother did that, considering from the pictures he seemed generally really happy and must have been well off to have two cats of that expensive breed.... Nonetheless, those kitties seem super happy now and I'm glad for them!

2points

Elaine Kuppler 5 years ago

How wonderful! Prayers for some peace. My father killed himself so I'm familiar with the pain. I had a Bengal named Stella. She would have loved your basement.

1point

Augie Snyder 5 years ago

cool area for the, but do they get to go in other parts of the house or just live in the basement? they need human interaction and to be able to at least see outside and get sunshine even if thru a window.

1point

Susan Bellantonio 5 years ago

You are an amazing hooman that you did this for your brother...no matter what anyone thinks that's who it's for...those two kitties are so lucky to have you. I think I love you <3

1point

julez 5 years ago

Just... wow, respect! 😮😍

1point

Laura Stehle 5 years ago

I am so sorry for your loss. You are an amazing brother and a fine example for the rest of us. I'm sure he is in heaven and is grateful for you. I was thinking maybe a fishtank with some tasty looking fishes for the kitties to look at.

1point

Isla Reyne 5 years ago

excellent ! All that's missing is a raised box of real grass/catnip since they can't go outdoors

1point

Jill Bussey 2 years ago

The cats know you prepared their jungle with love. I am sure your brother loves it too.

0points

Sandi 5 years ago

Why not build them one of these catios so they can sit outside too? Cut a little hole in the wall and build a big cage attached to the house. They will definitely like that when the sun is out. Cats love sleeping in the sun.

0points

Alusair Alustriel 5 years ago

All great, but do the cats permamently reside there and only there? There is literally one small window giving next to none daylight. If the cats are being help only in the basement, then it's really miserable in a long shot.

0points

Trisha Dragon 5 years ago

These are Bengals not cats. Shush you're peddling dangerous ignorance.

3points

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Teleri Nyfain 5 years ago

Awesome!

0points

Jim Day 5 years ago

Good on ya mate!!!!

0points

Hallak65 5 years ago

where the potato?

0points

Sandi 5 years ago

If u really want to have fun, get a couple of kittens in there. Their energy is insane and make you laugh so much. :)

0points

SirWriteALot 5 years ago

Don't cats need sunlight, too?

-1point

Lily Mae Kitty 5 years ago

things I like and things I don't like. The smell isn't a darn problem when you take care of it daily like a pet owner is supposed to. Use the clumping stuff and scoop that stuff out every single day. do you want to pee and s**t in yesterdays pee and s**t?? And cats need views! all this dark green carpet is crazy. Are you going to vacuum this all the time all the way to the ceiling?? This room is a cleaning nightmare and will be full of cat fur in a week and be a breathing hazard in a month. I understand you meant well but I don't think you did your homework about parts of it. Hoping they have the run of the house and this is just a playroom.

-2points

Madonna Rose 5 years ago

Adding...where is the easy chair that you will sit in to give them the quality time and love your brother gave them ...a basement....really...this is wrong...my cats would be crying for me ...the thought just tears me up for these beautiful animals.being isolated.

-2points

Marina Rios 5 years ago

It says the hammock is for him, and these are bengals, they have different needs to regular cats

1point

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Madonna Rose 5 years ago

It’s a nice thought but....how sad they’ll spend 85% of the rest of their lives alone in a basement with no love or human contact...this is not right...why couldn’t they have just lived upstairs with you????

-2points

Vonskippy 5 years ago

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