All animals exhibit some telltale signs that the end of their life is approaching, and dying cats are no exception. Learn how to recognize these signs so you can help make your cat's life more comfortable as they near the end.
It is an unfortunate fact of life that death must also occur. It is difficult to watch a dear friend reach the end of their days, as many cat owners will attest. It's possible some cats will die unexpectedly or blessedly in their sleep. What cats do when they are dying can vary, but according to Feline CRF.org, many cats will exhibit certain behaviors and signs before they pass on.
Some common signs of a cat dying are obvious changes in their normal temperament, a noticeable increase in hiding behavior, a loss of appetite for both food and water, and changes in their overall appearance. Appearance changes can include dull, matted fur, urine or feces in their hair, dilated or glazed eyes, lack of blinking, and a "sunken" look. Cats dying will often have seizures as well and will have difficulty breathing.
A cat that is sick and dying will often go through a drastic personality change. If they were formerly an outgoing fellow, they may now become something of a recluse and become irritable if you try to handle them. This is likely because they are in pain and don't want to be touched. On the other hand, some cats that were quite independent when they were healthy may now seek out the companionship of their owners as death draws near. This can be a difficult symptom to interpret, as many non-life-threatening illnesses can also lead to this behavior.
Cats seem to have the ability to know that they are going to die. A sick cat will often begin seeking out places that are comfortable to them yet away from their owners. For pet owners who allow a cat outside, this can cause problems. Cats will often seek out cool, shaded areas, such as under bushes, thickets of wild grasses, or under vehicles. If your sick or aging pet has suddenly pulled a disappearing act, check in these areas around your home first. Indoor pets will exhibit similar behavior, seeking out cool, dark areas in which to rest. Typical hiding places in the home include the cellar, under beds, or in rooms used for storage. A dying cat may not even come out when it is time for meals, to drink water, or use the litter box.
Cats that are ill or dying will avoid eating food and drinking water as well. It's important to note that a cat that isn't eating at all, even when you tempt them with a favorite treat, isn't necessarily dying. This cat may just need help! While a cat may skip a meal or two occasionally, an animal that hasn't eaten two or three meals in a row should be taken to a vet for an examination. A lack of appetite doesn't necessarily mean your cat is dying, but it should be taken seriously, particularly when seen together with other symptoms.
For expert advice about digestive disorders that cause poor appetite, constipation, diarrhea, or vomiting, consult LoveToKnow's eBook called Happy Tummy Cat. Written by a veterinarian, it helps you understand the underlying health disorders that may be at the root of your cat's digestive woes based on symptoms you can see and also tells you what to expect from the vet's visit and when to go.
Cats that are dying may also sit near a water bowl or even hang their heads over the bowl without drinking.
A cat that is close to dying may gradually develop more of an unkempt appearance. They won't have the energy to groom themselves as they normally would. In addition, their fur may even come out in small clumps or shed copiously. If a cat is extremely weak, they may urinate on themselves and can develop an odor or matted fur from this.
In addition to a sickly appearance, a cat's eyes may appear dilated when they are close to death. In other cases, a cat may appear to be blind, or their eyes are glazed over. If they're severely dehydrated, their eyes may also have a sunken-in appearance. If a cat doesn't blink when touched near the corner of their eye, they are probably unconscious and very close to death.
One sign that is exhibited by some cats that are dying is a series of seizures. This is one of the reasons why pet owners should provide their cats with a safe and comfortable place when they are nearing death. A cat that is having seizures may yowl and throw their head backward, making an uncomfortable-looking arch in their back. A cat may have one or two of these seizures or much more over a period of several hours before death takes them. During severe seizures, the cat will be minimally responsive between convulsions and will not even try to get up. They may not know you or their surroundings.
A cat's breathing may change when they are dying. Some animals will pant during their last hours or make wheezing sounds. The cat may keep their mouth open with his tongue hanging out. Toward the end, some cats will make little gurgling noises as the respiratory system begins to shut down. If a cat is panting and throwing themselves around or rolling, they are in severe distress and probably about to die. In other diseases, a cat may have agonal breaths, which are spasms in which their heart may already have stopped, but the breathing muscles still twitch as the muscles fail.
Some animals are so ill that an owner may take them to a vet to determine if it's time to consider euthanasia. After examining your cat, the veterinarian can help you decide if it is time to put your cat down. You may want to choose euthanasia if your cat has any of the following conditions and they cannot be treated:
- Severe pain
- Cancer that cannot be treated without invasive procedures
- Respiratory distress
- Any medical state in which you or your cat cannot keep them clean from urine or feces
- A systemic disease such as kidney failure, pancreatitis, heart disease, or cancer in which your cat is not responding to treatment, particularly if their quality of life is not good.
VCA Hospitals provides additional information on how to assess your cat's quality of life. If the vet agrees with you that your pet should be euthanized, you'll be given a chance to say goodbye before the vet administers the injection.
Cats often pass away without anyone noticing that they've gone. For pet owners who know that death is imminent, preparing for the event can help them say goodbye to their friend.
Occasionally, taking a pet to the vet isn't an option. In these cases, making the animal safe and comfortable is the best thing that you can do for them. If you have access to a large animal cage, place the cat in it along with water, a soft bed to lie on, and a litter box. If no cage is available, a quiet room with a door will suffice, along with soft bedding, water, and a litter box.
It is never easy to say goodbye to a cherished pet and member of the family, but being able to recognize that your cat is dying might just be a blessing in disguise. You'll be able to give your pet some measure of comfort in their final hours by telling them how much you love them, gently stroking them to comfort them, and just being there with them as they make that journey over the rainbow bridge.
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Whether your cat is old or has recently been diagnosed with a serious illness, you need to be extra careful to keep an eye on their health. But being aware of it and knowing what to look out for are two very different things. How to tell if a cat is dying? Here are six signs to look out for.
1) Your purring cuddle-magnet wants to be left alone
It can feel like a personal slight when your normally loving little bundle of joy starts to try and hide away from you. They might even become irritated or lash out rather than purring their usual enjoyment when you try and pet or comfort them.
A desire to be alone so that they can relax and remain calm is natural for cats if they can sense that they are coming to the end of their life. Try not to take it to heart if they prefer to spend time in seclusion, perhaps behind the sofa or under a bed. If your cat frequently starts spends time outside – more than they normally do – and are likewise seeking out cool, quiet places like underneath the shed, your car or in bushes, this may also be a sign.
2) Your strong, independent feline suddenly becomes a cuddle-puss
But that dramatic change in behaviour can work the other way too. Many cats who usually prefer to be left to their own devices will suddenly be desperate for attention and soothing cuddles when they can tell their end is coming. They may also start to follow you around constantly where normally a brief appreciative leg-rub after you give them their food is the most you usually get.
Such a change in behaviour is usually welcomed. But do be aware that swings like this can be one of the signs your cat is dying or sick.
3) They have no desire to move
When he or she is in great pain or feeling particularly weak, your cat may not be their usual energetic self. If your pet suddenly no longer shows interest in chasing their favourite toys, or they will not follow you into the kitchen even when food is on offer, you might be concerned.
When they reach a stage where they cannot or will not move for an entire day, even to relieve themselves, that is definitely not a good indication and it is time to call your vet.
4) Your normally hungry moggy can’t face dinner
Some cats will happily skip a meal if they hunt for themselves or simply because they fed well previously. If they miss two or three meals in a row, this may be a sign of an underlying medical problem.
This does not have to mean they are in immediate danger, however. Though it is definitely worth consulting your vet! Parasites and other medical issues can also lead to your cat not wanting anything to do with their food. However, a lack of appetite in cats is not a good sign, especially if your pet is old or sick.
5) Your normally well-groomed kitty starts to look tired and dishevelled
A cat-on-cat scrap or an energetic life outdoors can leave your adventurous cat looking a little the worse for wear. However, cats will always try and rectify any uncleanliness as soon as possible.
Cats who are dying regularly have less energy to spend on personal grooming. The fact they may be shedding hair or losing fur in large sections can make this worse. Or it can be combined with a loss of appetite, leaving them much thinner than normal. If your usually well-trimmed moggy starts looking a little ragged, it can be a sign of serious illness.
6) They can’t see or breathe properly
Signs a cat is dying can vary enormously:
If they start walking into walls it can be a sign that they are losing their vision.
A slow and sedate movement may indicate their ability to think quickly is being hampered by illness.
Unsteady breathing is always a serious concern, as it can indicate their respiratory system is struggling.
How to tell if a cat is dying – if in doubt, always consult your vet
If you are struggling with how to tell if a cat is dying, you should talk to your vet. Make it so that your vet visits you rather than put your pet through the caged trip to the surgery.
Try to remember all the happy times you and your cat have spent together. Remember too that death is a natural part of life. Your cat will always appreciate you for the joy and support you provided throughout their life. The will also love you for the fact that you were there to help them in the end.
For more information, contact Cloud 9 Vets.