Euthanasia

Knowing the right time to consider euthanasia is very difficult. We want to make the decision with your cat’s best interests in mind. Try to remember all of the things that your cat loves to do; getting treats, cuddling and greeting you at the front door are some examples. Is your cat still getting enjoyment out of those things? Are the good days outnumbering the bad days? Is your cat in a lot of pain? Those are the questions to ask yourself while you are preparing for this hard decision. Many times, your cat will help you make the decision by showing you that he or she is no longer getting enjoyment out of the things they have previously enjoyed.

When the time comes to say goodbye to your beloved friend, we will be here to help you. You will want to decide whether you would like to be present when the drug is administered and if you would like to bury your cat at home or have cremation performed. You also have the option of ashes returned to you to take home. If you decide to stay with your cat while the medication is given, we will place an intravenous catheter first, usually in the front leg. This allows the actual injection to be pain-free and your cat to be in a comfortable position, for example in your arms or curled up in a blanket.

If this is what you have determined is the best thing for your cat, please call our office, and we can go through the cost of the procedure with you. The cost varies greatly depending on your wishes. You may choose to bury your cat at home depending on local laws or have your cat cremated. You may choose to have your cat returned to your after cremation. Many options are available for a memorial.

Our sensitive and compassionate staff can provide you with the contact information for formal counselling if requested to help support you throughout the grieving process. We also provide a storybook that has information on how to discuss pet loss with children. Please do not hesitate to ask us for more information.