"Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.
When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....

Author unknown..."

Sorry to hear about your loss, OP. I've lost cats before, many dear cats. But because of the three other cats I lost, I can tell you for sure they know they are going somewhere.

My last cat who died was afraid of dieing, he postponed his death as much as he could, it was like he was suffering but he knew I was suffering too. When he could take suffering no more, I told him he could go, that he shouldn't be afraid, that I was sure we would meet again. Then he went, little by little, leaving through his lungs, in portions, as his heartbeat was getting slower and slower, I was hugging him close to my heart, and I could tell the moment he was completely gone. He was not there, yet, I could feel him from everywhere. Jorge was his name, he was a dear cat to me. I'm sure we'll all meet them again, at the right moment in time.

Hugs to you =^.^=