Cat Euthanasia

We all get older and none of us live forever. This includes our cats. It is important to ensure our cats have a good quality of life and when the quality of life decreases, euthanasia can be the last act of kindness.

When should I consider euthanasia?

Considering euthanasia can be a very hard decision. The quality of life plays a huge role in this decision, is your pet eating? Are they happy? Are they in pain/ are they hiding? There are a lot of factors in making this decision. The veterinarian can be very helpful during this time, you can bring your pet in to be assessed and then based on how they are doing during an exam and how their QOL is, they can help give their opinion.

What happens during euthanasia?

During a euthanasia, your pet will have an intravenous catheter placed. Once that is placed, there is no more pain associated with the procedure. When you are ready, the doctor will give an injection of ethanol, which is an overdose of an anesthetic agent. The injection works immediately as your pet falls asleep and then peacefully passes away.

Can you stay with your cat during euthanasia?

You can absolutely stay with your cat. At North Hill Animal Hospital, we have a specially appointed comfort room that will accommodate your family and you can take all of the time you need. Of course, it is your choice and you do not need to stay if you are not comfortable with it.

Do you offer pet bereavement support service?

If needed we have numbers we can give to help with bereavement support.