I want my dead cat back11/11/2023 ![]() We are all different so the best advice is to do what you feel will be best for you and your cat. However, it is easy to understand why some people feel it is just too difficult or fear their own distress will upset their cat. Being there for your cat at the end so they can hear your voice and feel your touch may be less stressful for them and gives you a chance to say goodbye. Finally, your vet will check for a pulse or heartbeat and may place your cat in a sleeping position. Your cat’s eyes are also likely to stay open and, as their muscles relax, their lips will pull back and their bladder or bowels may empty. Don’t worry if you hear them take a deep breath or two and see their muscles twitch, these are not signs of pain or distress. Your cat will quickly lose consciousness and a few moments later their heart and breathing will stop as they painlessly slip away. However, if your cat is very sick or old, the vet may find it easier to find a vein in another part of the body. They will then gently inject a high dose of anaesthetic into the vein so it goes directly into the bloodstream. Your vet may begin by shaving a small patch of fur on one of your cat’s front legs. Your vet may also give your cat a sedative to help relax them if they are particularly fearful. As it is a very distressing time you may want to consider paying in advance of the appointment as you are likely to be upset at the time.įirstly, you will be asked to sign a consent form stating you want the euthanasia to go ahead. Your practice will always be happy to chat to you about the various costs and options. ![]() Costs also vary depending on whether you want the vet to look after the body afterwards. Get in touch with your vet to discuss your preferences.Ĭosts vary from practice to practice but it will cost more if you decide you’d like the vet to come to your home rather than the procedure being carried out at the surgery. You can arrange a time to have your cat put sleep at your vet’s surgery or it may be possible for the vet to come to your home. Care must be used when using the term ‘put to sleep’ as children sometimes think this means the pet will wake up again. You may also hear people use the phrases ‘put down’ or ‘put to sleep’. It can be difficult to make decisions when you are very upset and having a plan in advance can be helpful.Įuthanasia literally means a ‘good death’ and is the word used to describe when a vet humanely ends the life of an animal. If your cat has a terminal but slowly progressing condition it is better to discuss these difficult issues with your vet sooner rather than later after diagnosis so that you are clearer about what might happen in the future. By listening to the advice and guidance of your vet, at least you will know you are making the kindest decision for your cat, giving them a chance to pass away painlessly and peacefully. It’s important to talk it through with your vet and you may also wish to involve your family in helping you decide. In this distressing situation, you will want to act with their best interests at heart and start to consider whether euthanasia might be the kindest choice.Ĭhoosing to have your cat euthanased or ‘put to sleep’ is one of the hardest decisions you will ever have to make. Due to illness or old age, your cat may no longer be enjoying a good quality of life. Sadly, our cats have much shorter lives than we do – the average life expectancy of a cat is 14 years. If it isn’t good news and the outlook for your cat is poor, they will talk you through the options. Your vet will recommend any further tests or treatments your cat may need. If you notice any of the above or are simply worried about your cat, the best thing to do is take them to your vet for a check-up. Less tolerant of people or other pets, or less interest in play or favourite activities ![]() Reduced interest in food or drink, or increased drinking or a sudden ravenous appetite Vomiting or diarrhoea lasting more than 24 hours Unusual discharge or bleeding from the eyes, nose or mouth Recurrent sneezing, coughing or laboured breathing You may notice your cat has changed their routine or simply isn’t ‘quite right’ – or you may spot one of the following:Īny unusual changes in behaviour but particularly lethargy or being withdrawn As your cat gets older or if they become ill, you might worry that you won’t be able to tell if they are still enjoying a good quality of life.Īny changes in their routine or behaviour could be signs their health and or quality of life is deteriorating. Cats are also very good at hiding signs of illness or injury. Your cat can’t tell you how poorly they feel or if they are in pain. ![]()
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