Euthanasia is the hardest decision to make for a pet parent. If you’ve been parenting a cat for years, they must have become a family member. When the cats get old or sick, it is difficult to watch them suffer. It is more challenging to think about when to say goodbye to them. Here, in this blog, you’ll learn when to euthanize a cat.
Proper information and guidance will help you make the right decisions. This may save your cat some pain and give you some relief from guilt.
Let’s dive deeper and find out everything you need to know about euthanasia.
What Is Euthanasia?
Euthanasia translates as “good death”. You can take comfort in knowing it is a humane and painless procedure. The veterinarian injects the pet with drugs to help them end pain and suffering and pass peacefully.
The vet will do their best to make the experience gentle and calm for your feline.
What Are the Signs of Poor Quality of Life in Cats?
The vet always talks about pets ‘quality of life’. This phrase helps determine: to what extent is your pet enjoying its life? Your cat's poor quality of life is an indicator that you may need to make a decision. Here are some factors to consider poor quality of life in cats:
Your cat may eat less or not eat
Showing signs of illness like vomiting, coughing, or diarrhea
They have difficulty breathing
They start avoiding physical contact
Sitting or lying in an unusual position
Crying
They become disoriented or confused
They don’t want to go outside or they want to spend more time outside
They are refusing to come in from the outside
Change in toilet habits or incontinence. Like toileting on the floor where they wouldn't usually
They become unable to groom their coat, matting of the coat, or lose patches of fur
Poor mobility, especially after rest
They became restless when lying down or sleeping
They became aggressive towards people or other pets
These are the signs that indicate your beloved cat is in pain. You can consider consulting your veterinarian for suggestions or medication.
How Do You Know When It’s Time to Euthanize Your Cat?
Quality of life measures your cat's comfort, health, happiness, and ability to enjoy their life. Your veterinarian can give you a professional and objective suggestion to improve this indicator.
They can provide you with medications, treatment options, and changes that you can make at home to improve your pet’s current situation. But if your cat still shows signs of poor quality of life, talk to your vet for guidance.
Here are some signs that may indicate the right time to euthanize a cat.
Loss of appetite
Difficulty moving without pain
Diseases (end-stage kidney failure, heart failure, and other diseases)
If your cat is old, weak, or terminally ill, not eating, you need to talk to the veterinarian. If the medicine doesn’t work, it can imply that you need to make the decision.
Older cats often get arthritis. It makes your cat’s movement very difficult. Your cat may experience joint pain. They will become aggressive if you touch the painful area or stop grooming their fur.
Bladder inflammation and dental pain are also common in cats. But the good news is these diseases are sometimes treatable. Still, if the veterinary medicine or therapy doesn’t work and your cat's condition is severe, talk to the vet. Cat euthanasia may be best in this case. The vet will guide you forward.
There are some incurable conditions, too. They are the last stage of kidney failure, heart failure, cancer, blood disorder, hormonal issues, feline AIDS, and leukemia.
If your cat is suffering from these diseases, they will show signs like weight loss, not eating, and inability to control urination. In that case, you might need to make a hard decision. Put your cat to eternal sleep to give them some relief from pain and suffering.
How Should I Prepare for My Cat Being Put to Sleep?
Once you have made the decision, it will take a toll emotionally. You can consult your vet about the process beforehand. So you can mentally prepare yourself for what to expect. Try to stay calm during the visit; pets can sense your emotions.
You can have their favorite blanket or toy with them for comfort, it can help them feel secure. You can also hold or gently touch your cat for comfort.
Take your time to say goodbye, and don’t rush the moment. Some people find it helpful to have a family member or friend there for support. It’s completely okay to feel emotional, this is a difficult moment. Think rationally; you are doing the right thing to save them from some unavoidable misery. You can be closer to your family and friends or consult a therapist if you need support. Again, remember, it’s okay to feel sad.
What Happens During Euthanasia?
At the beginning of the session, the veterinarian will explain the procedure to you. Ask them questions if you need clarification. Before it’s time, make sure your cat has a comfortable blanket or bed to lie on.
The vet will give your pet a sedative to help them relax. Then they’ll give an injection of a barbiturate anesthetic called sodium pentobarbital. Then, their brain activity, breathing, and heart will stop gently, without pain or distress.
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, this method ensures your pet will feel minimal anxiety or discomfort. It’s a very peaceful process and happens quickly.
Should I Stay With My Cat During Euthanasia?
You can stay with your cat during euthanasia if you want to. This is a personal choice. If you choose to stay, the vet will show you where you can stand and comfort them.
If you don’t want to stay, that’s okay too. Your veterinarian will confirm when your pet has passed. They will ask if you would like to have a few final minutes alone with your pet. The vets are respectful of your choice and will support your decision.
What Happens After Euthanasia?
After euthanasia, you get to decide what happens with your beloved cat's body. You can choose cremation or burial. You can put their ashes in an urn or put a headstone on their grave. This is a tough period, so take time to grieve. Choose whatever feels right.
What Can I Do to Remember My Pet?
To remember your pet you can create photo albums, paw prints or plant a tree. You can scatter their ashes in their favorite location.
You can create customized memorial jewelry, wind charms, and glass art. Memorial stones, cremation diamonds, and candle urns are some other options you can go for.
You can also donate to animal charity to show some gratitude to your cat. No matter what you do, you will always remember the bond you shared with your beloved four-legged friend.
Is It Normal to Feel Upset?
It is absolutely normal for any cat owner to feel upset. You shared a deep bond with your fellow feline friend. Their absence might make you feel lonely. Losing your friend hurts, so grieving is natural.
If you are struggling, find a friend or a family member to talk to. It is also normal to seek help from a pet loss group or talk to a therapist about it.
How We Can Help
If you live near San Diego, you may reach out to Peaceful Veterinary Care. We offer compassionate euthanasia to pets, as well as further counseling and guidance to pet owners. It will help them in the emotional journey of saying goodbye to their beloved pets. We are a mobile vet, and we provide reliable services, like:
Consultations
Treatment and Therapy
Transportation
Emotional support
Euthanasia
Aftercare and Memorial items
Water Cremation or Aquamation
Professional support
If you have a pet and you need any sort of help or advice, contact Peaceful Veterinary Care. We can provide you with the best suggestions for you and your pet.
Conclusion on When to Euthanasia a Cat
When to euthanize your pet, is your personal decision. Your choice should come from a place of love. Observe and monitor your cat closely so you can give proper information to the vet. Take guidance from professionals to improve the signs of poor quality of life of your cat.
If all of your effort to save your cat goes in vain, it is time to consider euthanasia. Yes, it is a difficult decision, but a right one to end their suffering and let them rest in peace.
Seek professional support if you need any. You are not alone. Call Peaceful Veterinary Care at 858-249-8707.
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