Putting a cat to sleep

Euthanasia, or having a cat 'put to sleep', is difficult issue that is never easy to deal with and is always an emotive issue.Most vets would agree that it is not the length of a cat's life that is of prime concern, but the quality of its life. There is obviously no necessity to put down all cats at a certain age because they are old - different cats will age at different rates. There are plenty of sixteen-year-old cats around that still behave like kittens. Similarly, there is no need to put a cat to sleep simply because a terminal condition such as cancer has been diagnosed - the cat may well be able to live several more happy months before life becomes a misery.

However, when your cat is suffering from extreme pain which is difficult to control, your vet may suggest that euthanasia is the kindest option.Taking the decision to euthanasia is one that shouldn’t be taken lightly, but your vet is there to help you make the right choice. The advice of your vet will be invaluable in making the right choice. When there is no reasonable alternative, to enable a cat to die in peace and dignity can be a tremendous relief.

What happens when a cat is 'put to sleep'?

The process of putting a cat to sleep is straightforward. It involves giving a large overdose of an anaesthetic agent, that will simply cause the cat to lose consciousness and then die very rapidly. This is usually given by intravenous injection using a vein in the front leg. Unconsciousness and death usually occur within seconds of the injection being administered. Sometimes as the cat loses consciousness it will take a deep breath, or gasp and exhale loudly, and occasionally there may be some involuntary twitching for a few moments after death has occurred, but this isn’t a sign of life. Euthanasia carried out in this way is quick, controlled, stress-free and painless. If the vet sees that a cat is very nervous, sometimes a vet may administer a sedative to calm it down prior to euthanasia to make sure ensure that its final moments are completely free of any stress.

Can I stay with my cat when it is 'put to sleep'?

The choice is with the owners as to whether they stay with their pet or leave it alone with the vet. Don’t feel guilty, however, if the situation is too distressing and you have to leave the room. The best advice, if you stay with your cat, is to try your best not to get too upset at first, as this can be picked up by your pet.

Can I have my cat 'put to sleep' at home?

Some vets will euthanise a pet at home, but this is something that you will need to speak to your personal vet about. If you do go to the vets, be sure to tell the receptionist that you would like to schedule the appointment at a time when the veterinarian is not in a hurry with other appointments or surgery. You might even request that your appointment be the last one of the day or the first one in the morning.

What will happen to my cat after it is 'put to sleep'?

There are four options that your vet will be able to arrange depending on your wishes:

• You may choose cremation and leave the cat with the vet to undertake this - this is the most common option.
• You can take the body back for burial at home in your garden.
• You may choose burial in a 'pet cemetary' - your vet can help to arrange this.
• Your vet can arrange for an individual cremation with return of the ashes - although relatively expensive, this is another service that your vet can arrange.

Dealing with grief

Many, many pet owners experience a very strong and lasting sense of pain and grief after the passing of a special pet and it may be difficult to find friends who understand what you are going through. This can be a very lonely and private grief since the pet owner often is reluctant to disclose the source of their saddened state for fear of ridicule. Plus it is very common for the pet owner to think they see or hear their deceased pet in the home or out in the garden long after it is gone. If someone hasn't personally experienced the loss of a loved pet they may be able to fully connect with the pet owner who is grief stricken.

It can help to talk to someone about your feelings, and if you need to speak to someone, contact the Pet Bereavement Support Service co-run by the Blue Cross and the Society for Companion Animal Studies on 0800 0966606