How Do You Know When It’s Time to Euthanize Your Cat?

The time will come when a cat’s quality of life significantly diminishes. In such a case, you may consider euthanasia to keep your pet from pain and suffering. It’s a tough decision to make, so we’re listing the signs to know when it may be time to consider euthanizing your cat. 

How Do You Know When It’s Time to Euthanize Your Cat?

You’ll know it’s time to euthanize your cat when your veterinarian has given a terminal diagnosis such as cancer or kidney failure and the quality of life has become dramatically affected. There may be drastic weight loss, difficulty moving and persistent breathing difficulties. Consider your decision based on whether your pet is suffering more than faring well.

Cat with white and black coating lying on a sofa

Although euthanasia can be heartbreaking, remember that it may be the most humane choice to free your cat from pain. Aside from consulting your veterinarian, here are key points to consider before making a life-changing decision.

Deteriorating Physical Condition

The primary reason for a cat’s physical decline is often an underlying disease that causes anorexia, discomfort, dehydration or weakness.

Loss of Appetite and Weight

Often elderly and frail cats may lose their appetites, ultimately causing them to stop eating. Sometimes, your pet may try to eat yet suffers from vomiting and diarrhea.

Refusing to eat and significant weight loss along with a terminal diagnosis are primary indications that it’s time to euthanize cats, especially if you’ve tried multiple ways to encourage eating. Veterinarians may prescribe an appetite stimulant and anti-nausea medication. If there is no improvement euthanasia may be the best option. You may also assess your cat’s quality of life using this scale

Chronic Pain or Terminal Illness

Most cats, particularly older ones, may experience chronic pain and degenerative illnesses. While certain medical disorders are treatable, other ailments may be progressive leading to suffering. 

You may consider euthanasia if a terminal disease compromises your pet’s ability to function. The moment your cat stops responding to pain medications and symptomatic care such as anti-nausea medication may be the turning point.

Cat with gray and white fur nuzzling its nose against a woman holding her close to her chest

White purebred cat resting on a black and white rug on the floor

However, it may also be due to mobility issues, preventing your pet from reaching some body parts.

Loss of Interest

If your cat is losing interest in routine activities, in addition to having a weakened physique, an illness, and mobility problems, euthanizing may be the kindest gift.

An unwell cat could become uninterested in playing or going for walks. It may also become disinterested in eating its favorite treats. Cat behavior expert Dr. Mikel Delgado says that some cats are more affectionate than others. For some, they will show love by wanting to be in the same room as you. However, detached cats may prefer to rest rather than get your attention. A previously affectionate cat may seek isolation with significant behavior changes or lethargy when it is time for euthanasia. 

Related Questions

Do Cats Know When They Are Dying?

Cats are intuitive, so at some point, they know when they are about to die. Their instincts allow them to detect weakness and physical deterioration.

Is Euthanasia Better Than Letting a Cat Die Naturally?

Euthanasia is better than letting your cat die naturally because it removes unnecessary pain and suffering. It can serve as your last help to your pet because professionals ensure your pet is comfortable with a more peaceful transition.

Conclusion

If you notice behavior changes, mobility issues, chronic illness and pain, and weight loss in your pet with a terminal diagnosis from a Veterinarian it may be time to consider euthanizing your cat. Your Veterinarian and family may help make an informed decision together.

Testimonials

I can't recommend them enough. I had to say goodbye to my 21 year old cat companion. I read the reviews here on Yelp and chose Paws Into Grace and they made an unbearable situation not worse - from the people on the phone to the amazing doctor who... read more

Renee C.

My absolute love Dante had heart failure three months ago. After having him on many medications to help him, his enthusiasm and appetite declined last couple of days. He was in pain and we decided to help him go to heaven rather than torturing him... read more

Diane C.

I wanted to thank you for sending Dr. Brown to euthanize our beloved Myleigh on March 4, 2021. She was compassionate and accommodating, she explained every step of the procedure, and gave us some alone time with Myleigh after she sedated her, but... read more

Terry A.

Renee C.

I can't recommend them enough. I had to say goodbye to my 21 year old cat companion. I read the reviews here on Yelp and chose Paws Into Grace and they made an unbearable situation not worse - from the people on the phone to the amazing doctor who came out to the house. She was so understanding and supportive. They were all so helpful, understanding and nice. My girl got to stay at home and say goodbye in the backyard (a hummingbird flew over and it seemed like a good sign too). So glad I didn't have to take her to a cold vet office.

Diane C.

My absolute love Dante had heart failure three months ago. After having him on many medications to help him, his enthusiasm and appetite declined last couple of days. He was in pain and we decided to help him go to heaven rather than torturing him with more medications which would make him even more miserable. I called and spoke to a very kind lady who was patient as I cried through making an appointment. We made an appointment for 1:30pm. Dr. Toni arrived. She was very kind, explained everything to us and gave us the time to be with our boy after the first shot. He wasn't relaxing enough so she gave him a second shot. We stayed with him throughout the entire process and I carried him to her car in the end. It was a very difficult decision but knowing that our boy is not in pain, gives us some peace. We are thankful to Dr. Toni for her kindness and compassion. They will arrange the cremation for us. Since we are in a pandemic, we had our masks on and said goodbye to our boy in our garden.

Terry A.

I wanted to thank you for sending Dr. Brown to euthanize our beloved Myleigh on March 4, 2021. She was compassionate and accommodating, she explained every step of the procedure, and gave us some alone time with Myleigh after she sedated her, but before she attached the IV. We were relieved that we made the decision to let her go to doggy heaven at home. It was a tranquil and serene passing for her, and it very much aids us in the grieving and healing process knowing that she passed away so peacefully. Based on the grace and compassion Dr. Brown demonstrated on one of the most awful days of our lives we would not hesitate to recommend Paws Into Grace for others facing this very painful time.
San Diego Orange County Cremation Office