For most of Leila Palacios’s life - through breakups, failed tests and arguments with her older brothers - Kai was there to lick her tears and cuddle.

Kai, Palacios’s cat, died last month after suffering from cancer. But by setting up an altar in her family’s living room - with mementos like the bear costume Kai liked to wear, his chicken- and beef-flavored treats and the orange brush he enjoyed being groomed with - Palacios hopes to feel Kai’s presence again on Monday.

It will be the first night of Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, a traditional Mexican multiday holiday to honor family members and friends who have died. Some observers dedicate each night of the week to celebrate particular loved ones; Monday is for pets.

Mathew Sandoval, author of the illustrated book “Día de l

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