One of the biggest fears you always have as a pet owner is saying goodbye to your beloved cat. It is the hardest decision that you will face as a pet parent. Your cat is one of your family members, and when the time comes to putting your cat to death, it may not let you sleep in peace afterward.
When they see their cat turning old and suffering from any pain or illness, it is hard for many pet owners to believe that it is the time for euthanizing. Regarding euthanize appointments, we hear many questions. In this article, you will learn more about how to decide to euthanize your cat and how you should euthanize your cat humanely.
When is the Right Time to Say Goodbye to Your Cats?
The relationship between a pet and its owner is always something special. Pet owners are responsible for their pet’s care and welfare, and this caring develops attachment and love between both. Unfortunately, facing the death of your furry pets is the bitter truth that many pet owners face.
Cats can’t speak; they can only express their illness and pain through their mesmerizing eyes; therefore, when you notice any sickness or severe injuries in your cat, visit a veterinarian and induce its humane death through euthanasia. It is the only kindest thing you can do for your pet.
However, during this decision, you are not a solitary one; you will have assistance and support from your veterinarian, family, and friends, who help you go through this process. Quality of life is important for both pets and people; therefore, consider what is best for your cat and your family while making decisions.
Signs Indicating Your Cat is Suffering From Illness or Pain
If your pet no longer enjoys being with your family as she used to, or she doesn’t respond to you in the usual way, she might be suffering from any serious illness.
Moreover, the veterinarian is the only option to speak about your pet’s health and quality of life. They are highly qualified to observe any symptoms you might not pick up easily at home. Visit them and ask the following signs you noticed in your cat’s behavior before making any decision.
Chronic pain
Crying
Refusal to go outside
Decreased appetite
Vomiting or diarrhea
Lethargy, weakness, sleeping all the time
Avoid physical contact with family
Trouble breathing
Weight loss
Incontinence (urine or stool)
The above signs indicate that your cat no longer has a quality of life. For this, only a vet can instruct you what to do in this situation, whether to go for hospice care, in-home euthanasia services, or other alternatives.
What Happens During Euthanasia?
A vet will explain all the procedures of euthanizing your cat. If you have any queries about your pet’s health, ask them. You will need to sign a consent form that asks for your permission for the vet to go ahead with the process. Your vet will assure you that the appointment will be calm, and your cat will be treated with dignity.
Euthanasia will be started by giving an injection into a vein on a cat’s front leg. Weak cats will be given a light sedative to calm and relax their last moments. If your pet is very old or fragile, it will be injected into another area. A gas anesthetic is used for small pets, which is dangerous for humans to breathe in; therefore, it would be better for you to stay away during the procedure.
Before performing euthanasia, your pet will be taken to another room where they have the right equipment. One of the nurses will hold your cat while the vet gives an injection. Many vets prefer to place a catheter first before the injection. You might be wondering if the injection is painless, don’t worry because it will be painless. Your cat will only feel a sharp scratch for a moment.
The injection is an anesthetic that has been given in a higher-than-normal dose to stop the heart. Your pet will feel sleepy at first, then quietly fall unconscious within a few seconds, as with all anesthetics. Their breathing and heart will stop after a short period, and the vet will examine your pet using a stethoscope.
Your pet’s eyes may remain open after they pass away. They can sometimes empty their bladder or bowels as everything relaxes. This is completely normal and causes no concern. Their muscles may quiver or shake, and they may make a few deep breathing sounds from time to time. This can be scary if you aren’t expecting it, but it is an instinct — your pet has already gone away and isn’t in agony or distress anymore.
What Happens With My Pet’s Body After it is Put to Sleep?
After the euthanasia procedure has been performed, it is up to you what you would like to do with your cat’s body; whether you want to bury the cat or have her cremated. In these circumstances, your vet can arrange this. Depending on the situation, there is also another option of doing this at home.
How Can I Make My Children Cope With the Cat’s Death?
To make your children cope with your cat’s grief, many parents think that a new pet cat will work for them, but no, it is not yet the right time to bring a new one into your home, because you and your family need some time to get over the cat’s death.
It would be best if you told the truth about your cat’s euthanasia. Be honest with your children in this painful moment. Ask your children to share their feelings, talk to them openly and try to make them focused on the good times. Moreover, if you have buried your cat’s body, then you can take your children to the pet’s grave and let them write a message for the cat.
Final Thoughts
After euthanasia, many pet owners feel guilty over their pet’s passing, but remember that there is nothing to feel bad about it after losing your loved one because it will not let you overcome the grief for months and even for years. Share your feelings with your family and friends for their help and support.
