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Coming face to face with the death of a beloved pet can be an incredibly difficult and heart-wrenching experience. However, being able to recognize the signs that indicate a cat has passed away is crucial for grieving and seeking closure. Understanding these signs can help pet owners navigate the moment of loss with dignity and empathy. In this guide, we will explore the various physical and behavioral indicators that can help you determine whether your cat has died. By knowing the signs of a dead cat, you can both prepare yourself emotionally and handle the situation responsibly, honoring your furry friend’s memory.
This article was co-written by Melissa Nelson, DVM, PhD. Dr. Nelson is a Veterinarian who specializes in Adult and Pet Health in Minnesota, where she has over 18 years of experience as a veterinarian in a rural clinic. She received her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the University of Minnesota in 1998.
This article has been viewed 214,822 times.
In the final moments of life, cats will exhibit certain behaviors and you can tell that the cat is about to die. Cats may refuse to eat or drink, lose energy, and lose weight. Many cats instinctively want to be left alone in their final days. Recognizing the signs of a dying cat helps you give your cat the most attention and special care.
Steps
Watch for signs of a dying cat

- Place your hand on the cat’s left chest, just to the right of the front paw.
- Use a stopwatch or smartphone to count the number of heartbeats you feel in 15 seconds.
- Multiply the number you counted by 4, and you get the cat’s heartbeat in 1 minute. You need to assess whether this heart rate is in the healthy range or below the normal range.
- A weakened cat may also have a drop in blood pressure. However, you need a special device that can measure your cat’s blood pressure.

- Sit near the cat and listen to the cat breathe. Observe the number of times the abdomen rises and falls with each breath.
- Use a stopwatch or smartphone to count your breaths for 60 seconds. [3] X Research Sources
- If breathing is rapid and labored, the cat may receive less air and is dying.

- Use a thermometer. You can insert a pet thermometer into your cat’s ear. If you don’t have a pet thermometer, you can use a digital rectal thermometer to take your cat’s temperature. You can insert a thermometer into your cat’s rectum and take it out and read the temperature after the beep.
- Without a thermometer, you can feel the cat’s paws. A cat’s paws that are cool to the touch are a sign of decreased heart rate.

- Check your cat’s waste. Cats that do not need to eat often go to the bathroom less often and have dark urine.
- Because they are so weak, cats often have difficulty or no control over their urinary and intestinal tracts, so you may see cat waste strewn all over the house.



- For example, chronic kidney failure is common in older cats. Symptoms of kidney failure are often very similar to signs of imminent death. However, with timely veterinary intervention, cats with chronic kidney failure can live many years.
- Cancer, lower urinary tract disease, and tapeworms can also be cured when cats show symptoms similar to dying. [7] X Research Sources
Make your cat comfortable

- Many cat owners are now doing “end of life at home” regimens to help their cats pass away more easily. Owners often care for cats around the clock to prolong the cat’s health and comfort for as long as possible.
- If you are uncomfortable with a certain form of treatment, you can schedule regular vet appointments to meet your cat’s care needs.

- Make sure your cat’s bedding is clean at all times. Every few days, you should wash the blanket once in hot water. Do not use scented laundry detergent to avoid irritating your cat.
- If your cat is going to the toilet uncontrollably, you should line the bed with a towel that can be easily changed after each time the cat urinates.


- Cats hide more than usual
- Cat panting or struggling
- Cats move reluctantly
- Cats eat or drink less than usual

- You should keep a record of your cat’s pain and distress. If the number of days your cat is in pain and distress exceeds the number of days she can get up, walk, and breathe normally, you should consult with your veterinarian about how to help her end the pain.
- If you decide to euthanize your cat, your veterinarian may prescribe a sedative followed by medication to help the cat pass away peacefully. The process is usually painless and only takes about 10-20 seconds. [10] X Trusted Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Go to the source You can choose to stay with the cat or wait outside. [11] X Research Source
Handling after the cat dies


- Some places will allow you to bury your cat yourself while it is illegal in others. Before deciding where to bury your cat, you should research local laws. [13] X Trusted Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Go to source
- It is illegal to bury cats in parks or other public places.

Advice
- Be sure to consult your veterinarian when your cat shows the first signs of illness. Medical intervention can significantly extend the life of a cat.
This article was co-written by Melissa Nelson, DVM, PhD. Dr. Nelson is a Veterinarian who specializes in Adult and Pet Health in Minnesota, where she has over 18 years of experience as a veterinarian in a rural clinic. She received her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the University of Minnesota in 1998.
This article has been viewed 214,822 times.
In the final moments of life, cats will exhibit certain behaviors and you can tell that the cat is about to die. Cats may refuse to eat or drink, lose energy, and lose weight. Many cats instinctively want to be left alone in their final days. Recognizing the signs of a dying cat helps you give your cat the most attention and special care.
In conclusion, knowing the signs of a dead cat is essential for any pet owner or animal lover. Identifying these signs early can help ensure that proper care and attention is given to the cat in its final moments and in handling its remains. By understanding common indicators like lack of responsiveness, absence of breathing and heartbeat, stiffening of the body, and changes in body temperature and color, one can make an informed decision about seeking veterinary assistance or preparing for a respectful and dignified burial. It is important to remember that losing a cat is a difficult and emotional experience, but being aware of the signs of a dead cat can enable us to honor their lives and provide closure in the most compassionate manner possible.
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