My aging cat is declining. When is it time to consider euthanasia?

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.

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!

If you feel Ella’s quality of life has declined and your veterinarian does not think this is a temporary setback it may be time. Fecal incontinence is concerning - in my opinion the ability to urinate and defecate in the right place is a part of a pet’s dignity and incontinence can affect quality of life. The decrease in appetite and weight loss may be progressive. You may want to schedule a consultation with your vet to discuss everything in more detail. This is such a difficult decision to make, but ultimately you will do what’s best for Ella.

I'm so sorry G is so sick. I work for an home euthanasia service, so I face these kinds of questions frequently with my clients. I would look at G's quality of life in make the decision as to when to euthanize him. If he's in pain, losing weight, having diarrhea, detached, and head pressing, his quality of life isn't very good. When a cat is in constant pain, they will be suffering daily, and in my opinion, that is when it is time to let them go peacefully. It's never easy to say goodbye to a beloved pet, and they are often ready to go before we are ready to let them go. By letting G go peacefully and without further pain, you will be giving him one last great gift. If you'd like to discuss this further with me, I'd be happy to consult with you. Just click the "consult online" button under my answer. Again, I'm sorry he's so ill :-(

Yes unfortunatley in cases where a diabetic cat is not able to be medicated and maintain hydration, euthanasia is the best option. The fact she has other complicating factors reducing her mobility and causing her discomfort means this may be very soon to prevent suffering. See the following article for information on helping to decide when http://vet.osu.edu/assets/pdf/hospital/companionAnimals/HonoringtheBond/HowDoIKnowWhen.pdf

It sounds like Spooky has severe arthritis. There are medications that can help with the pain, however some of them are off-license and only vets specialised in feline medicine will prescribe them. I suggest you find a veterinarian specialising in cats and have him examined. The vet may want to do xrays and blood tests to ensure that the kidneys and liver are healthy and to verify that he is not suffering from peripheral neuropathy caused by diabetes. From what you describe he is a happy chappy and not anywhere close to euthanasia. However he may need some treatment to ensure he has a good pain-free quality of life.

This is a very difficult decision but moving such an elderly and infirm cat would not be advisable and could precipitate progression of kidney disease. Euthanasia is a very valid option in this case and will ensure he does not suffer from any stress or upheaval