People who share their lives with cats often agonize over their care, but it's likely that not many cat owners think about what will happen to their pets after they're gone. Even if old age isn't a concern for you, accidents or illnesses can take you away unexpectedly from your cat. What will happen to your pet?

"If you are lucky, a family member or friend will care for your cat," says Sara Silverman, an attorney in Aiken, S.C. But your cat also could end up at a shelter or euthanized. According to Silverman, this can happen because your cat is considered personal property (just like a television is) and goes to whoever gets items that aren't left to someone specific. To keep your cat safe, plan for its care after you are gone.

**Get the October 2008 issue of CAT FANCY to read the full article.**

Click here for CatChannel's exclusive checklist to plan ahead.