Oh, I am so sad for you guys. Les could be a twin to our Chase. Such pretty boys.

It's hard to lose pets. We had a kitty go fast, like Les. Our Gus suffered a stroke/seizure that he never recovered from. Days later he was wasting away to nothing and unable to control his bladder or bowels or walk. He went from being strong and regal to devastated. I still cry every time I think about it and it was over 5 years ago. Our vet thought that he likely had tumors in multiple places (urinary and whatever caused the stroke).

RIP Les. (((hugs))) to you, but especially to your stepson. 8 is that age when kids really start to "get" death. And Les was always in his life. He probably feels like his best friend has died.