Deciding to say goodbye to a beloved pet is one of the most heart-wrenching decisions a pet owner can face. Euthanasia, while an act of compassion, can be surrounded by uncertainty and emotional turmoil. So how do you determine when it might be time to consider this option for your furry friend? Here’s a guide to help you through this challenging decision.
Understanding Euthanasia
The latin translation for Euthanasia is ‘good death’ Euthanasia is a humane way to end the suffering of a pet who is experiencing severe pain or diminished quality of life due to illness, injury, or age-related issues. It’s not about giving up; it’s about recognizing when the time has come to alleviate pain and prevent further suffering.
Ideally we want to time Euthanasia for when the ‘joy’ has gone. For when ‘living’ stops and before ‘suffering’ starts.
I personally think it is a gift to your loved pet. You know your pet best and can see they are suffering and you selflessly choose to release them from this pain and suffering knowing that their loss is going to cause you great heartbreak.
Consulting with Your Veterinarian
Your veterinarian is your best resource. They can provide a professional assessment of your cat’s condition and possibly a diagnosis, provide palliative care and pain management options and help you understand the progression of your cat’s illness.
Ask your regular veterinarian for the exact signs of suffering likely to be associated with your pet’s condition or disease. With this information, a palliative care plan, the list of criteria below and all your love, you will be able to make the best decision for your cat when the time comes.
Key Signs That It Might Be Time
When cats and dogs are suffering, they may not show outward signs like whimpering, vocalising or crying, but I still think they communicate to you when they are ready. You just need to listen to them and to your heart.
1. The Joy is gone.
The routine they loved and followed they are not engaging in any more.
2. ‘The Look’
Many animals when they have had enough and have lost their quality of life, will have a look in their eye and if you see it, it can be unmistakeable. It is a vacant stare into nowhere and they try to disengage from you and everyone around. At this stage it is not you that has decided it is time for euthanasia, it is your cat. They want to be somewhere else.
3. Chronic Pain
Cats with chronic pain, despite medication or treatment, can often be seen struggling with daily activities or avoiding contact with you or doing the essentials such as toileting, eating or drinking. If your cat is constantly in pain and the pain management strategies are no longer effective, it is a strong sign to consider euthanasia.
Other indicators that your cat is likely in pain is:
- The muscles in their hindquarters weaken and they cannot jump up to normal resting places or can barely stand on all legs or must crawl.
- Unable to get into the cat litter to soil and may soil in random places or try go in the litter but miss completely and then be embarrassed by it.
- Severe diarrhea / vomiting / bloody stools
- Vocalising in a distressed or unusual way.
- Reduced grooming or maybe even stopped grooming
- Persistently licking one site which can indicate pain at that site.
- Refusal to eat.
4. Loss of Mobility
Losing the ability to comfortably get around unaided, significantly impacts their quality of life. Mobility is vital to consistently get to food, water, seek out appropriate temperature and to be able to toilet.
This may be from arthritis, diabetes, neurological issues, or other conditions. If veterinary care, mobility aids or treatments are not improving their situation, then it may be time.
5. Loss of dignity
If your cat is soiling or unable to clean themselves it can be extremely distressing for them. Cat do not want to soil their bed or in the house or themselves and some are so embarrassed that may even try cleaning up their accidents.
6. Persistent Illness
Conditions like advanced cancer, hyperthyroidism, diabetes, renal disease or severe organ failure can lead to a progressive decline in the quality of life. It may be worth discussing with your regular vet if there is any suitable treatment or palliative options with you regular vet. If treatment and palliative care options are no longer allowing your pet to have joy then it may be time. Your regular vet can give you criteria to look for that is specific to your cats condition in addition to the standard criteria.
7. Severe Illness
Vomiting, diarrhoea, blood in stools, or any distress which is not responding to treatment.
8. Loss of Appetite
Some cats I see for euthanasia are still eating something and will continue to eat or drink in spite of pain and suffering, so I believe if they are still eating but have other important indicators, you still need to consider euthanasia.
However, if your cat is refusing food despite veterinary diagnosis and treatment, then I think your pet is trying to tell you that they have had enough and it is really time to listen to them. Your cat has decided it is time.
9. Behavioural Changes
You know your cats normal routine, behaviour and what is a highlight in their day. Changes in behaviour give a very important indicator of quality of life. Things to look for are:
- Irregular behaviour patterns: pacing, circling or unable to settle especially at night.
- Increased vocalising
- Increased aggression, less tolerant as they are in pain
- Seeking out unusual places to sleep or hide, to disengage or even die
- Your pet no longer enjoys or seeks out contact with your family
- Loss of interest in routines.
10. Difficulty Breathing
Respiratory distress, excessive panting, gasping for breath can be distressing and may indicate severe health problems. If your cat is struggling to breathe then they need urgent veterinary care or euthanasia. If you cat is breathing with an open mouth this is a severe emergency and they will be distressed. It is not fair to leave your pet to struggle breathing. It is very scary for them and an awful death.
If you observe that pain, loss of mobility or dignity have stolen the joy from your pet’s life, then the most respectful and kind gift you can give your pet is euthanasia.
Preparing for the Decision
Making the decision to euthanise your cat can be emotionally exhausting.
When you think the time is approaching, reach out to The Gentle Farewell and I can explain the entire process to you and answer any questions that you might have and we can develop a personal plan for your cat and your family for when the time comes.
Here are some steps you may want to consider in preparation:
- Spend Time Together
Cherish the time you have left with your cat. Create special moments and ensure they are comfortable and loved. Sit outside with them and just be together in the fresh air. - Discuss with Family
If you have family members who are also attached to the cat, discuss the decision with them to ensure everyone is on the same page. Who would like to be present? Where would be the best for all the family? What keepsakes would everyone like? What is everyone’s consensus on aftercare? For more information on supporting children through pet euthanasia please visit here - Consider Your cat’s Needs
Reflect on your cat’s needs and preferences, and how they align with their current state. Sometimes, making their last days as comfortable and joyful as possible can provide peace of mind. Sometimes, you need to make an urgent decision to free them from pain or suffering, even when you are not ready. - Plan for the Process
Euthanasia at home has advantages of providing privacy for the family and reducing anxiety for your cat. Cats almost always dislike a car trip and visiting the vet and when they are struggling or unwell this could be even more distressing so a home visit is ideal.. - If you cat is already at the vet and it is painful to move them or they cannot be removed from oxygen, then euthanasia at the vet hospital may be the best option for your cat, even if this is not what you hoped for.
Final Thoughts
Choosing euthanasia for your cat is a deeply personal decision, based on love and compassion. It’s about recognising when the suffering outweighs the joy and making the most humane choice for your beloved companion. By carefully evaluating their quality of life, seeking professional guidance, and considering their needs, you can make a decision that is both compassionate and respectful of the bond you share.
If you’re struggling with this decision, remember that you’re not alone. Many pet owners face this challenge, and reaching out for support from veterinarians, friends, or support groups can help guide you through this difficult time.
