My senior cat is sick with weight loss. When should I euthanize?

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.

Hi there, Weight loss, hair pulling, and teeth grinding are all signs of serious disease and/or pain. I would be suspicious of something metabolic (like hyperthyroid disease) or cancerous with the weight loss and continued eating. I would expect this to continue to worsen without treatment and it already sounds like his quality of life is already in decline. Euthanasia would be a very kind option to prevent suffering. This website is helpful to many people making this decision: https://journeyspet.com/pet-quality-of-life-scale-calculator/ I'm so sorry you're making this decision right now. My thoughts will be with you and Hodges.

First off. I'm so sorry Choocherboo is sick! I work for a home euthanasia service, so I face this question all the time with my clients. I recommend looking at the cat's quality of life. Are they eating, drinking, doing things they normally enjoy like playing? Or are they having difficulty breathing, spend most days sleeping, don't eat, vomiting, are losing lots of weight, and/or appear very ill? When the cat's quality of life has declined, that's when euthanasia should be considered. Unfortunately I can't tell you what to do, but I do suggest evaluating his quality of life, and if it's declined, then euthanasia would be the kindest option. Best of luck, I hope this helps!

I am sorry to hear about Ernie's conditions. It certainly sounds like he has been through an awful lot and isn't feeling to well. Obviously without seeing Ernie in front of me, I can't give you my fully official opinion. However, if you feel that Ernie is no longer able to do the things he enjoys, can't eat a meal without being in pain, and is spending more time sleeping and hiding, it may be time to start seriously considering his quality of life. I know that this is a very personal and difficult decision, but sometimes it is the kindest and most humane decision you can make for your pet. All of the conditions you have named are incurable and are likely to progress. When in concert with one another, they may progress even faster. No one can make this decision for you, but I think you should do whatever you feel is right in your heart.

I would take Kiki to your vet to be evaluated. There are a number of conditions that can cater weight loss in cats, but some are treatable. Your vet will likely want to check some blood work to try to figure out what's going on with him. In general though when they have fewer good days compared to bad days their quality of life may be declining.

I'm sorry you are faced with making this decision. It is always tough. The best thing to do is to assess her quality of life. If her quality of life is poor then you know it's "time". I think these links will help you more. ( https://www.petcoach.co/article/the-decision-of-euthanizing-your-pet/ ) ( https://vet.osu.edu/vmc/sites/default/files/import/assets/pdf/hospital/companionAnimals/HonoringtheBond/HowDoIKnowWhen.pdf ) Hope this helps. Best wishes.

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!