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My sick cat still eats and purrs. How do I know when to put him down?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 15 years and 9 months old | 10 lbs

I am struggling whether to put my cat down. For probably 10 years he has a virus and or allergies that causes him to have severe mucus all the time. His nose gets crusty and he has difficulty breathing at times just because his nose is clogged. I have tried everything to no avail. He has known kidney disease, has lost some weight in the last few months. He has some sort of crusty ear drainage now. He feels hot, my difficulty is he still purrs, eats, drinks and seeks out love.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Makenzie Kurth, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 29th, 2018

I am so sorry to hear about Sunny. I know how difficult this decision is. It sounds like Sunny may have chronic rhinitis - which is notoriously difficult to treat. He also has some other “old kitty” problems like kidney disease. When I discuss quality of life with my clients, I remind them that no one knows their pet better and therefore you are the only person qualified to make that decision. We talk about “measuring” quality of life with markers such as: is he still eating and drinking? Is he comfortable? Is he pain free? Can he walk? Does he interact with his humans? Or, we use the good day/bad day system. When Sunny is having more bad days than good, it is time to think seriously about humane euthanasia. Finally, it is never wrong to seek a “quality of life” exam with your vet to talk about any end of life treatments meant to buy comfort and the best quality time you can have with Sunny. I hope that you can find peace and clarity for yourself and Sunny. I wish you all the best in the time ahead- no matter what you choose.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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