When To Euthanize A Cat With Cancer

When To Euthanize a Cat With Cancer

All you’ve ever wanted was the best for your cat. But sometimes knowing what’s right for him or her can be very difficult, especially when it comes to euthanasia. When a cat is sick with a debilitating illness, such as cancer, or has been severely injured, your head may tell you that euthanasia is the right and humane thing to do. But your heart might say otherwise. So, what should you do? Is euthanasia the right answer for your cat’s situation? Or should you just let nature take its course? If you do decide to put your pet down, timing is another issue. How will you know when to euthanize a cat with cancer or another medical issue?

If you are wondering whether it is time to euthanize a cat with cancer, you are not alone. Many people ask how to know if their cat is suffering, what signs to watch for, and whether waiting is kind or only prolongs discomfort. While there is no single answer that fits every cat, your veterinarian can help you look at your cat’s quality of life, comfort, breathing, appetite, mobility, and behavior so you can make the most humane decision possible.

Unfortunately, there is no one right or wrong answer to these questions. Every cat’s situation and every pet parent’s situation are different. To help you make this difficult decision, here are several signs and symptoms that could mean it’s time to let your cat go.

How Do You Know If Your Cat’s Quality of Life Is Declining?

Is your cat thriving or just surviving? If you notice that your cat is no longer able to do the things that he or she used to take pleasure in, such as playing, eating, or interacting with others, your feline is probably just in survival mode. Keeping a daily log of how your cat is doing will help you determine whether your cat’s bad days far outweigh the good ones. If that becomes the case, you may want to talk to your veterinarian about end-of-life preparations for your cat.

Is Your Cat With Cancer No Longer Eating?

A lack of appetite is one of the first signs you may notice when your cat’s quality of life is on the decline. In some instances, you may be able to get your cat to start eating again by offering them “people” food, such as tuna, other types of fish, or chicken. Some pet owners will also use veterinarian-prescribed appetite stimulants to entice their cats to eat. Sometimes, however, these medications are of little benefit, as they do not treat the underlying cause.

Is Your Cat Having Trouble Breathing?

If you notice that your cat is having trouble breathing, this could be a sign of pulmonary edema or a fluid buildup in the lungs. Some causes of pulmonary edema include but are not limited to, illnesses such as pneumonia or asthma, cardiomyopathy, or pulmonary lung tumors. Cats that have difficulty breathing will often stop eating, which can lead to further health complications.

What Physical Signs Can Mean a Cat With Cancer Is Suffering?

If your cat’s health is declining, you may notice that his or her medications are no longer as effective as they once were. As a result, you may notice a worsening of any symptoms your cat may have. For example, if your cat’s pain medication is no longer working, your pet may find it too painful to move around, which could lead to other issues, such as weakness, poor hygiene (lack of grooming), or incontinence.

Can Behavior Changes Be a Sign It May Be Time?

A sudden change in your cat’s personality could signal that your cat’s health is in serious decline. Your normally friendly cat might, for instance, take to hiding in your closet. Or an aloof cat might suddenly become clingy.

What Are the Signs That Cancer Is Taking a Toll on Your Cat?

“Cancer” is a blanket term that covers a group of diseases characterized by abnormal cell growth. Because each cancer is different, symptoms and treatment protocols can vary greatly. Following are just a few symptoms and the type(s) of cancer they may signify:

Trouble urinating: Bladder tumors
Drooling or difficulty eating: Oral cancer
Uncharacteristic aggression, fearful behavior, walking in a circle, or walking as if drunk: Brain tumor
Difficulty defecating: Anal gland adenocarcinoma

If cancer is in advanced stages, you may have to make decisions based on your cat’s quality of life.

When Should You Call Your Veterinarian Right Away?

Call your veterinarian right away if your cat is struggling to breathe, seems unable to get comfortable, stops eating for an extended period, cannot urinate or defecate normally, cries out in pain, collapses, or seems suddenly distressed or confused. These signs do not always mean euthanasia is the only option, but they do mean your cat needs prompt medical guidance.

What If Your Cat Has Been Exposed to Rabies?

Rabies is a fatal disease that is spread through the saliva of an infected animal. According to the CDC, unvaccinated cats that have been bitten by a rabid animal typically should be euthanized immediately. Consulting your veterinarian and state laws is vital.

What If Your Cat Has Severe Injuries?

Euthanasia may be the kindest decision for a cat that has suffered traumatic injuries after a violent incident or accident, such as being hit by a car or being attacked by another animal. If the outlook for your cat’s survival is bleak, medical treatment could just be prolonging your feline’s suffering.

What If You Are Not Ready to Make the Decision Yet?

Don’t be surprised if you will need some time to decide if euthanasia is the right answer for your cat. In fact, if you’re like most pet parents, you’ll probably change your mind several times before making a decision. It is important to note, though, that your cat may be uncomfortable during this time. So, you may want to reach out for extra care. For instance, you may consider calling a mobile veterinarian to provide in-home hospice care for your cat. Having a vet come to you means that your cat will get the treatment he or she needs without having to endure a stressful car ride and office visit. Further, if you do eventually decide on euthanasia, a mobile veterinarian can humanely put your cat to sleep in the comfort and familiar setting of your home.

What Happens During Euthanasia for a Cat?

Please take comfort in knowing that euthanasia will not be a painful process for your cat, and that your veterinarian will do their best to make the experience as calm as possible for your feline. Your veterinarian will begin the procedure by inserting a catheter into one of your cat’s veins. In most cases, your cat will receive some type of heavy sedation, which will be followed by a second injection that will stop your pet’s heart and lungs. Your cat may let out a sigh before passing away peacefully. Depending on your comfort level, you can either stay with your pet during this process, which only takes a few minutes, or you can choose not to. Neither choice is wrong.

It is also absolutely okay if you choose not to euthanize your pet. We understand that this is a very personal choice and not one anyone enters into lightly.

Frequently Asked Questions About Euthanasia for Cats With Cancer

How do I know when it is time to euthanize my cat with cancer?

It may be time to have that conversation if your cat is no longer enjoying daily life, is in pain that cannot be well controlled, has stopped eating, is having trouble breathing, can no longer move comfortably, or is having more bad days than good ones.

What are signs that a cat with cancer is suffering?

Common signs may include poor appetite, weight loss, hiding, trouble breathing, poor grooming, weakness, incontinence, pain, and major behavior changes. Your veterinarian can help you understand what these signs mean in your cat’s specific case.

Is it better to euthanize a cat with cancer or let nature take its course?

There is no one answer that is right for every family. The kindest choice depends on your cat’s comfort, quality of life, and prognosis. Many families choose euthanasia when it becomes clear that ongoing treatment will not restore comfort or dignity.

Do cats know they are being euthanized?

Euthanasia is designed to be peaceful and gentle. Veterinarians typically use sedation so the cat is calm and comfortable before the final injection.

Can I wait a little longer before deciding?

Sometimes families need a little time, and that is understandable. If you are unsure, your veterinarian may be able to help with hospice support, pain control, and quality-of-life guidance while you decide.

How Our Team Can Help You Make the Best Decision for Your Cat

Our experienced medical team is dedicated to providing compassionate guidance and care for cats that have been diagnosed with cancer. If you are trying to understand your cat’s options, quality of life, or next steps, our Pet Advocates can help explain the support and treatment services we offer.

If you would like to know more about our services, please contact us or reach out to one of our Pet Advocates. They can explain the treatment options we offer, including stereotactic radiation. This innovative treatment is a non-invasive way to deliver higher doses of radiation, precisely targeted to a tumor, reducing the risk of damaging healthy tissue near the tumor.

Compared with traditional radiation, your cat may have to undergo fewer treatment sessions with stereotactic radiation. In addition, we offer both telehealth services and in-person care at our centers. Find a location near you and contact us for more information.

RELATED: When To Euthanize A Dog With Cancer

The contents of this article were provided in part by Dr. Renee Alsarraf, DVM, DACVIM (Oncology), a board-certified veterinary medical oncologist and member of PetCure Radiation Oncology Specialists (PROS).