Cats are our beloved pets and a part of the family. When we see them not feeling well, it breaks our hearts. Knowing the signs that your cat is dying can help you make arrangements for comfort and peace in their final days.
This article will discuss 15 signs that may indicate your cat is dying.
1. Lack of Interest in Eating and Drinking
One of the earliest signs that your cat is dying is a lack of interest in food and water. It is usual for cats to lose their appetite when they are not feeling well. Still, it could signify a severe medical condition if they have not eaten or drunk anything for more than 24 hours. Suppose your cat is losing weight and showing signs of dehydration. In that case, it is essential to take them to the vet immediately.
Another indication of a dying cat is if they are not interested in its favorite treats or toys. If your cat used to be excited to get goodies or play with their toys but now shows no interest in them, it could be a sign that something is wrong.
If your cat is refusing to drink or eat, there are some steps you can take to help them. First, make sure their food and water bowls are clean and that the food is fresh. You can also try offering wet cat food, which is easier to digest. Finally, ensure your cat is in a quiet and comfortable area free from distractions.
2. Extreme Weakness
Another sign that your cat is dying is an extreme weakness. If your cat seems to be having problems standing or walking or lacks the energy to jump or climb stairs, it could be a sign that something is wrong. It is important to note that cats who are elderly or suffering from an illness may have difficulty moving around. If your cat shows extreme weakness, take them to the vet immediately.
If your cat is showing signs of extreme weakness, there are some things you can do to help them. Make sure they have a comfortable and safe place to rest. Give them wet cat food and ensure they have access to clean and fresh water.
3. Changes in Appearance and Smell
If your cat is dying, you may see changes in its appearance and smell. Their fur may become matted, and their eyes may become dull. You may also see a difference in their scent, as ill or dying cats may have a distinct odor. If you notice these extreme changes in your cat, you must take them to the vet immediately.
If your cat shows a significant change in their appearance and smell, there are some steps you can take to help them. First, make sure their fur is kept clean and well-groomed. Give them easy-to-digest wet cat food and ensure they’re in a quiet and comfortable area free from distractions.
4. Always Seeking Solitude
Cats are naturally solitary creatures, but if your cat is always seeking solitude, it could signify something is wrong. If your cat is avoiding their favorite spots or hiding in dark places, it could be a sign that they are in pain or feeling unwell. If you notice your cat is always seeking solitude, it is essential to take them to the vet immediately.
If your cat is always seeking solitude, there are things you can do to help them. Make sure their food and water bowls are clean and that the food is fresh. Ensure your cat is in a quiet and comfortable area, free from potential distractions.
5. Lower Body Temperature
If your cat’s body temperature is lower than usual, it could signify something is wrong. A typical body temperature for a cat is between 100-102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. Suppose your cat’s temperature is lower than average. In that case, it could signify that they are dehydrated or suffering from an illness. If you notice your cat’s temperature is lower than usual, it is vital to take them to the vet immediately.
If your cat’s temperature is lower than usual, here are things you can do to help them. First, make sure their food and water bowls are clean and that the food is fresh. Ensure your cat is in a quiet and comfortable area, free from distractions.
6. Decrease in Heartbeat Rate
If your cat’s heart rate is lower than average, it could signal something wrong. The average heartbeat rate for a cat is between 140-220 beats per minute. Suppose you notice your cat’s heartbeat rate is lower than usual. In that case, it is essential to take them to the vet immediately.
If your cat’s heartbeat rate is lower than usual, there are some steps you can take to help them. Discuss with your veterinarian. Check if there are medications your cat needs to take. Keep your cat comfortable the best you can.
7. Labored Breathing
If your cat is having difficulty breathing, it could signify something wrong. If your cat is panting, wheezing, or making labored breaths, it could be a sign that they are in pain or suffering from an illness. If you notice your cat is having difficulty breathing, it is essential to take them to the vet immediately.
If your cat has difficulty breathing, here are some things you can do to aid them. Give them access to fresh air when possible. Consult with your veterinarian if you need oxygen masks for your cat. Make sure your cat is fed and comfortable at all times.
8. Change in Behavior
If your cat’s behavior is changing, it could be a sign that something is wrong. Suppose your cat is displaying signs of aggression or withdrawing from their everyday activities. In that case, it could signify that they are in pain or suffering from an illness. If you notice your cat’s behavior has changed, it is essential to take them to the vet immediately.
If your cat’s behavior has changed, there are some steps to take to help them. First, make sure their food and water bowls are clean and that the food is fresh. Try not to disturb your cat by placing them in a distraction-free zone. Consult with your vet for any additional steps.
9. Longer Sleeping Hours
If your cat sleeps longer than usual, it could signify something is wrong. Cats usually sleep for about 16 hours a day. Still, if your cat is sleeping for more extended periods, it could be a sign that they are in pain or suffering from an illness. If you notice your cat is sleeping for more extended periods, it is essential to take them to the vet right away.
If your cat is sleeping for more extended periods, there are some steps you can take to help them. Considering that they may be terminally ill, the best you can do is leave them alone in a comfortable space. It’s best to talk to your veterinarian and schedule a checkup to see how to care for your dying cat.
10. Little to No Grooming
If your cat is not grooming itself, it could signify something is wrong. Cats are naturally clean animals, and they enjoy keeping themselves well-groomed. If your cat is not grooming themselves, it could be a sign that they are in pain or suffering from an illness. If you notice your cat needs to groom themselves, it is vital to take them to the vet immediately.
If your cat is not grooming themselves, there are some steps you can take to assist them. First, make sure their food and water bowls are clean and that the food is fresh. If your cat is up for it, you may try and brush its coat and see if it can improve its disposition. Be gentle with brushing your cat.
11. Significant Weight Loss
One of the first and most obvious signs that something may be very wrong with your cat is if it has lost much weight quickly. Several diseases and health issues can cause weight loss. If this is the case, you must take your cat to a medical professional as soon as possible if you notice this sign. Cats can also lose weight due to old age, which is challenging to prevent.
Cats need to eat to stay healthy and maintain their weight regularly. Suppose your pet cat is eating less than the average or refusing to eat altogether. In that case, it could signify something is wrong. Taking your cat immediately to the vet would be best to rule out any potential medical issues.
12. Problems Using the Litter Box
If your cat is having difficulty or challenges using the litter box, this signifies something is wrong. Cats are very particular about their bathroom habits. If they are having trouble using the litter box, this could be a sign of a medical issue.
Cats having difficulty using the litter box may be straining while trying to go or may have accidents outside the litter box. This could signify a urinary tract infection or another medical issue. If your cat is having problems using the litter box, it is vital to take them to the vet as soon as possible.
13. No Longer Playful
One of the most noticeable signs that your cat is in trouble is if it is no longer playful. Cats are naturally curious and love to explore, so if your cat is no longer interested in playing or seems lethargic, this could signify something is wrong.
Cats may become less playful as they age. Still, if your cat is suddenly less interested in playing, this could signify a medical issue or old age. It is vital to keep an eye on your cat’s behavior and take them to the vet if you notice any changes.
14. Curls Up in a Loaf Position
Another sign that your cat may be in trouble is if it is curling up in a loaf position more often. This is a classic sign of pain or discomfort in cats and should not be ignored. If your cat is curling up in this position more often, it is vital to take them to the doctor as soon as possible.
Cats may also be less likely to jump or climb if they are in pain. If you notice that your cat is no longer jumping on furniture or climbing up to high places, this could be a sign that something is wrong. It is essential to bring your cat to the vet as soon as possible if you notice any changes in its behavior.
15. Unresponsive When Called
The final sign that your cat may be in trouble is if it is unresponsive when called. Cats are usually very responsive to their owners and will come running if they are called. If your cat is no longer responding to your calls, this could signal that something is wrong.
Cats may also become less social if they are in pain. Suppose your cat is no longer responsive or interested in cuddling or playing with you. In that case, this could signify something is wrong. It is essential to bring your cat to the vet as soon as possible if you notice any changes in its behavior.
Suppose your cat is unresponsive when called or is no longer interested in playing or cuddling. In that case, it is essential to take your cat to the doctor as soon as possible. This could signify an underlying medical issue, so it is critical to get it checked out as quickly as possible.
How do you help your cat when it’s dying?
It is upsetting to face the reality that your cat is terminally ill. Still, there are many things you can do to make them feel more at ease at this difficult time. Here are five valuable tips on how to help your cat during this period of life.
Tip #1: Ensure your cat has enough additional bedding to keep them warm and comfortable.
When your cat is getting close to the end of their life, it will most likely want to cuddle up and be as comfortable as possible. Thanks to their additional blankets and bedding, they will have plenty of padding to lounge and sleep on. Disperse several pillows, fluffy blankets, and cat beds across your home in various locations.
Tip #2: Put everything your cat requires in a spot that is simple to access.
Please do not force your cat to use the stairs to access their food, water, or litter box; this might be stressful for them. Keep everything close by, on the ground, and in a location that is simple to access to make your companion as comfortable as possible. Make life as straightforward as possible for your cat.
Tip #3: Reduce the amount of activity and noise near your cat.
When your cat’s life is coming to a close, it is essential to provide them with a sanctuary where they may unwind. It should be a place where they can be as comfortable as possible in their remaining days. Maintain a tranquil environment for your cat, away from distracting noise or activity. You should refrain from shouting, keep any other loud pets confined to other areas of your home, and shut the windows if it is particularly noisy outside.
Tip #4: Turn down any bright lights and make sure your cat has access to natural light.
Altering the lighting in your cat’s environment to make it more comfortable for them is one way you may do this. During the day, you should tilt the window awnings or blinds to let in some natural light. After the sun has set, you should give your cat some gentle illumination.
Tip #5: Make it easier for your cat to access her favorite locations around the house by providing her with a ramp or stairs.
Most felines enjoy spending some of their time perched in elevated positions. Get some cat stairs or a pet ramp for your cat if it likes to share your bed, sits on top of your dresser, or has a favorite window perch. This will make it easier for your cat to climb up to their preferred hangout, whether it’s your bed, a dresser, or a window perch.
Other things you can do to ease the transition for your cat include keeping your veterinarian informed and providing a warm bed in a quiet location. You must also regularly wash their bedding, assist your cat in getting to the litter box, and monitor your cat’s pain. If necessary, discuss end-of-life care and euthanasia with your veterinarian.
Conclusion
It is heartbreaking to see our beloved cats not feeling well. Knowing the signs that your cat is dying can help you make arrangements for comfort and peace in their final days.
If you see the signs in this article, you must immediately take your cat to the vet. Knowing the signs that your cat is dying can help you provide them with the care and support they need in their final moments.
Ensure your cat is in a quiet and comfortable area, free from distractions. Knowing the signs that your cat is dying can help you provide them with the care and support they need in their final moments.
Further Reading
