My cat is dying and hiding. How do I comfort her without disturbing?

I'm so sorry Lilo has mammary cancer! Yes, cats can hide after being given medication. She's already not feeling well due to the cancer, and giving her medication (even though it's necessary!) will add some stress as well. I would let her hide for now, and she will come out when she's ready. I certainly hope she makes an appearance soon!

I am so sorry for your heartache, I know how difficult this time is. You have a couple of options to consider. 1) Let her pass at home. Make sure she's got a warm comfortable bed, allow her to be propped into a whatever position seems most comfortable. If she's having any difficulty breathing, it may help to prop her so that she's sort of lying on her chest, (so the breastbone is on the surface)--this allows both of her lungs to expand most comfortably. There is no medication that I can advise you to give her, but just being with her is the best thing you can do to make her comfortable. You can keep things she really likes (a cat toy she used to love, etc) and familiar scents (one of your worn t-shirts,etc) in the bed with her. Don't try to force her to eat or drink. 2) Call an emergency clinic. They likely have 24/7 full services, including euthanasia. Additionally, they may be able to refer you to "on-call" in home euthanasia services in your area. More and more of these at home services are available 24 hrs in metropolitan areas. Costs will vary, but will be more expensive than taking her in to your family veterinarian, due to the 24/7 service. You and your kitty are in my thoughts. Thank you for trusting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Hi there and thank you for using Pet Coach. I am sorry to hear that Angel has gone missing. Cats, as well as other animals, do not realize what death is. So when they are very sick and it is close to their time to pass, they feel sick and vulnerable. I believe that this is why cats and dogs will choose to be alone when they pass away. Many cats prefer to be in a dark and quiet place when they are not feeling well. I know this will not help bring Angel back but I hope this helps provide you with the information you are seeking. It is not that Angel does not love you, she was just feeling very sick and wanted to be alone. Please understand that when animals do this, it is not out of selfishness, it is because they do not feel well and want to be in peace.

I am so sorry about Didi, from what you are describing I am afraid you might be correct; she may be dying. If at all possible, get her to a vet right away. Otherwise, just try to keep her as comfortable as possible until she passes. I am so sorry, but there isn't anything I can really offer in terms of a solution to save her; if she is that ill she will need intensive medical attention at this point if she is going to live, and even at that she may not make it.

Thank you for submitting your question regarding SweetPea. I am sorry to hear about her diagnosis. Cats hide signs of pain very well. Typically I assume that cancer is painful and will always offer pain medications. Otherwise, I have owners watch for decreased appetite, hiding and crying as these can all be signs of discomfort. I hope this information helps!

I would have Carmen checked out by a vet. Whenever there is a behavior change, it's a good idea to have a health check done by a vet. It may not be that she is at the end of her life, it could be she has an illness that may be able to be treated. I wouldn't make an assumptions about her reaching the end of her life without having her seen by a vet. Give your vet a call today to make an appointment. Best of luck.

I would try tuna or canned food or something special for her and bring the bowl to her. I would offer her some and if she does not eat then place a small amount in her mouth and see her reaction. If she slings or drools and overly disgusted by it, then I would stop and let her be, you don't want to create any food aversions for the future. if she swallows it then you can try a little more.