Is it time to put down my 20-year-old sick cat before I move?

Having him euthanized is a valid option if his quality of life is not good. If he cannot control his bowels and is not able to eat, that is not a happy life for him. Older cats can have liver, kidney disease and diabetes that can cause illness. You may want to have a vet examine him to see what the treatment options maybe before making that difficult decision. They can tell you want to expect long term to see what his quality of life will be like if he starts on a treatment. You know him better than anyone, so you will be able to know best how happy he currently is.

Poor Zoe! Usually CKD is a condition more associated with older cats. Obviously I can't see her blood work so don't know how bad she is in medical terms. However, it is very hard to know how long a cat with CKD has. Sometimes it is months, sometimes years. If she is comfortable at the moment I would let her be and monitor the situation. If her signs worsen and she starts vomiting and being unwell you ought to consider putting her to sleep. However, there is no reason why she can't travel to your new home with you if her signs are still manageable.

Hi, it sounds like he is going to pass away, I would personally request a home visit so that he can be put to sleep without suffering . He could be going for days and it’s not fair on him in this condition. I understand why you don t want him to take to the vets, however at home it will be less traumatic and there is the option of giving him a sedation so that he does not realise so much what’s happening. Thinking of you at this difficult time,

Yes, euthanasia is most definitely becoming likely, the main criteria being quality of life in an instinctively clean and independent cat who is becoming unable to exhibit normal behaviors. Acupuncture and physiotherapy may provide some options depending upon the severity of damage

I'm sorry to hear that your kitty isn't doing well. Before considering euthanasia, I would recommend taking him to the vet for an exam and some basic lab work to find out what is causing these issues. Some problems, such as hyperthyroidism, are very treatable with medication once a diagnosis is made.

Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I’m not sure exactly what can be going on with Gracie, but just like people, cats are more likely to get sick with age. Thinking about euthanizing Gracie is not wrong, and is a responsible, albeit difficult decision. There is no “right” time to euthanize a pet, and this is different for every pet owner. Some people consider euthanasia once an animal can not eat or drink independently. I recommend considering what makes Gracie herself to you - what aspect of her personality makes her unique? Is there a window she always looks out of, or a favorite treat, or a meal she won’t pass up? If these things start lacking in her life, it may be time to consider euthanasia a little more. I’m happy to answer any other questions you may have!

I'm sorry you and KJ are going through this. It sounds like he is very unwell, and he is likely in a lot of pain. Please have him seen by a veterinarian immediately. Your vet will be able to perform a physical exam to help figure out what is going on, and offer treatment options. If your vet determines that euthanasia is a reasonable option, they will let you know. It may well be the case that euthanasia is recommended, but it's impossible to tell without an exam. There are a number of factors that could have lead to KJ's current condition, but it is essential that you get KJ to a vet immediately so that he does not suffer.