Your cat or dog cannot tell you when they’re ready to pass on, but there are some subtle ways to tell.
Assess your pet’s zest for life.
Do they enjoy doing the things they love, like going for walks, playing with a favorite toy or snuggling with you on the couch? If they struggle to do these things or are no longer interested in them, it could mean they have lost the desire to go on and may be ready to pass on.
Evaluate their appetite and drinking habits.
Do they still eat their regular food and enjoy treats? Are they drinking adequate amounts of water? If they still enjoy eating and drinking to their heart’s content, it’s likely that they are not under unnecessary stress or in pain.
Watch your pet’s movement.
Do they struggle to get up and down or have a hard time bending down to eat from their food bowl? Are they disinterested in the walks they used to love? Overtime, pain medications may not be enough to keep joint pain at bay and your pet could be living in pain.
Consider their behavior.
Has their personality diminished at all or are they still bright, cheerful and excited to seek out your company? If your pet is still acting like their old self, it’s a good sign they are enjoying their life.
If you find yourself answering negatively to many of these questions, please talk to us about positive palliative care options to relieve some pain and stress. You know your pet best of all, and while we can offer some guidance and medical advice, we cannot make the tough decision for you. Should your pet not improve with palliative care, it may be time to say goodbye.