The extra padding can also prevent pressure sores that could develop if they lie in one position for too long, which is a big problem for many terminally ill cats. The extra bedding can also serve to keep your cat warm. If your cat seems like they’re struggling to stay warm, give them a heated cat bed to rest on.
Keep their favorite toys close by so they can play if they want to. Don’t put your cat’s litter box and food/water right next to one another. Place them in separate corners or adjacent rooms. Your cat won’t use the litter box if it’s super close to their food.
You should still talk to your cat if you normally do. Let them know how much you love them. Tell them how much they mean to you. Your cat will be comforted by your voice. Do not introduce your cat to new people or animals during this time. It’s also not a good idea to have tons of friends come over. Let your cat naturally choose an area that will give them the peace and quiet they desire. Cats hang out where they want to be, so don’t force your feline to stay in an area they don’t want to be.
Cats are sensitive to bright lights to begin with, but a cat nearing the end of their life will be especially bothered by super bright lighting.
If you don’t have steps or a ramp for your cat, stack a few boxes or pieces of luggage to create a makeshift set of steps. The steps should be stable and steady and provide enough space for your cat to comfortably jump on and off.
Turkey and chicken are similarly delicious treats. Just make sure you don’t feed your cat anything with onion powder on it, since it’s highly toxic. If you are going to take your cat to the vet to cross the rainbow bridge, the final meal can be whatever you want. A little fried chicken, their favorite canned food, yogurt, or whatever your cat would love. Whichever tasty food you give them, make sure that it has a strong and appealing smell. Your cat probably won’t have a big appetite in their final days, and giving them food that is very aromatic may encourage them to eat at least a little bit.
Other than mashing dry food, you can grind it up in a blender. If your vet recommends feeding your cat baby food, you can mix it with some water to make it even softer. Talk with your veterinarian if you are unsure what types of foods your cat can eat, and would want to eat, at the end of their life.
If your cat isn’t drinking the way they normally do, try adding water flavoring. You can buy this stuff at any pet store. It’s designed to make the water tastier and smellier for your cat.
If your cat has a terminal illness, such as cancer or chronic kidney disease, develop a plan with your veterinarian to manage and minimize your cat’s discomfort. Terminal illnesses often require palliative care, which refers to medical interventions designed specifically to minimize pain.
If your vet hasn’t offered up pain medication, don’t worry—your cat is probably not in pain. All illnesses are not created equal, and your cat may not need meds. Ask your vet for info here.
Use a large plastic storage bin to make your own low-entrance litter box. You can cut an entrance on one side to provide easier access. The high sides of these bins help contain litter when the cat digs and covers. Some cats, especially older declawed and arthritic cats, can’t/don’t squat to urinate and may accidentally urinate or defecate over the side of a smaller box. These bins eliminate that problem.
Something to consider: a cat losing the ability to keep themselves clean or control their bladder and bowel is considered one of the bigger signs that it may be time for euthanasia. Check your cat regularly for evidence of soiling or wetness. Wipe them with a wet towel to keep them clean, as needed. [12] X Trustworthy Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty Go to source Cat diapers are also available to help contain the mess.
Euthanasia is a painless and humane way of ending your cat’s life. Your vet would administer an overdose of an anesthetic drug. After a few seconds, your cat would slip peacefully into unconsciousness and eventually stop breathing. [14] X Research source Do not feel ashamed or guilty for thinking or talking about euthanasia. Many pet owners struggle with the idea of putting their pets to sleep, even if it is recommended by a vet. Your veterinarian can help you sort out your emotions and questions regarding euthanasia.
Ask yourself, “Am I keeping my cat alive for myself or for my cat?” How you answer that question will help you decide when the time is right to euthanize them. One common rubric is, “Are there more good days than bad?” In other words, even if things are bad sometimes, are there more playful, pleasant days than difficult days.
Give yourself enough space to mourn. Consider taking days off of work before and after work so you can spend time with your cat and then grieve in peace. On the day of the appointment, put your cat in the carrier and take them to the vet.
Some people do not prefer at-home euthanasia. The idea of going through something like that where you live can be upsetting to a lot of people. Do not beat yourself up about this decision. You’re with your cat, and they’ll be comfy at the end regardless of where they are.
Your veterinarian can give you information about pet cremation and burial services. If you have your cat buried at a pet cemetery, you can go visit them. However, it’s more expensive than cremating your cat. If you wake up to find your cat has died at home before you’ve had the opportunity to take them in for euthanization, call your vet. They’ll be able to offer guidance on what to do.
The pre-active dying phase refers to the months (or weeks) leading up to your cat’s death where the initial signs that something is wrong will develop. Every cat’s end of life cycle is unique, but most of these symptoms and signs will be present for most cats as they pass on.
The speed of weight loss is often an indicator of how long it will take for a cat to pass. If they start slowly shedding pounds, the pre-active dying phase may take months. If the weight loss is rapid, it may only take weeks.
Behavioral changes will often occur throughout the pre-active and active dying change.
Your cat will often gradually slow down on the grooming gradually as they reach the end of the pre-active dying phase.
A disinterest in play is a common sign that your cat has entered the pre-active dying phase.
Slight lethargy is common during the early pre-active dying phase. Extreme lethargy (i. e. not able to get to the food bowl or litter box) is often the last sign your cat has a few days left.
Hiding is typically one of the last signs that a cat is about to pass away. If your cat continues to hide from you and other people with an uncommon frequency, they may only have a few days left. Frequent hiding is typically a major indicator that a cat has entered the active dying phase.
