Having one or 2 of the following signs like weight loss or cancer doesn’t essentially indicate your cat’s time is approaching, however you must think about speaking along with your health insurance agency and veterinary if multiple symptoms are present.
As hard as this decision may be, sometimes the suffering is just too much, and the kindest thing is to put an end to it. Without further ado, here are the signs you should pay attention to:
1. Excessive loss of weight
Most cats rarely step on scale more than once in a year; hence, you may not recognize a gradual weight loss. You can only realize that your cat is shedding off some pounds slowly if you carry him frequently. However, at a point, you are bound to notice that your pooch is already slim.
Some possible causes of extreme weight loss include loss of appetite, body’s failure to process nutrients, among others.
2. Incontinence
A lack of control over bladder or bowel muscles, which often result in an involuntary discharge of urine or feces is referred to as incontinence. Aging cats usually exhibit the condition regardless of their breed. According to Pets WebMD, some possible causes of incontinence include hormonal imbalances, kidney diseases, urinary tract infections, degenerative spinal conditions, among others.
A mess may result from frequent dripping of feces or urines, which also irritates the skin. Incontinence may be affecting an older cat that is regularly involved in accidents inside; and consequently, it may become feeble to move outside. While an end to life of a pet is not solely characterized by incontinence, when noticed, endeavor to contact your veterinarian.
3. Chronic Pain`
Identifying the signs of chronic pain in cats can be quite challenging, considering that cats cannot tell you how they are feeling exactly. However, a reliable solution is paying attention to the body language, attitudes, and movements of your pet.
A regular therapy or medication may be all it takes to get him back, in some cases – and not, in other cases. Also, pain management processes that you have always used are now ineffective. Once you realize that medication doesn’t help anymore, or the usual physical therapy has become ineffective, then it is most likely that the cat is in severe pain, which may affect his life-quality.
4. Lack of Interest
The life quality of a cat can be assessed by the cat owner by writing down five activities that the pet loves to do. Such activities may include eating, greeting the owner once they arrive, playing fetch, among others. Ensure that you make your list according to the favorite activities of your cats
Once you notice that your cat can’t do at least three of those things anymore, then its life-quality has been affected. At this point, most veterinarians usually recommend euthanasia.
5. Changes in Mood
Sick cats usually express a mood change alongside a lack of interest. You may see cats that used to be affectionate around children become dull or aggressive towards the same situation which they used to love.
They may become short-tempered due to low life quality and pain. While around family, they may exhibit strange behavior and become intolerant to situations which they used to tolerate. Also, signs of depression, such as a long period of sleeping, inactivity, etc. may be expressed.
6. Isolation
As a sign of expressing that last day is close, some aging cats do withdraw from their relatives. According to some canine behaviorists, cats often withdraw from others instinctively to prevent slowing down the others or causing unnecessary pain for their families.
While this theory is yet to be accepted widely, social withdrawal is a common behavior among cats that are close to death. They usually isolate themselves in hidden areas and tend to spend more time alone.
7. Drastically reduced or zero appetite
Most cats love eating; dinner time is always a great time, and they will accept every treat offered happily. However, when you realize that your cat has become less enthusiastic about mealtime, then something is amiss. A cat tends to lose its appetite once their organs become less active. All of a sudden, they will need more strength to eat than necessary.
During this period, even the fattest bone won’t be enough to tempt them into eating anymore. Without a healthy diet, there will be a gradual decline in their wellness. While a temporary fast may result from a harmless condition such as slight stomach ache, leaving the foods untouched for many consecutive days deserves the attention of a veterinarian.
8. Difficulty in breathing
Breathing problems may surface once the body begins to shut down. Chronic cough or inability to breathe deeply are few of the possible ways through which dying-induced breathing problems can manifest.
You may hear an uneven rate of breathing or long, painful pauses between inhale and exhale. Ultimately, the cat’s energy will be drained by strenuous breathing, and eventually, results in frequent lethargy.
9. Loss of Coordination
Senior cats tend to exhibit a reduction in their ability to perform cognitive functions and coordination. Once a cat is close to his final days, it may start to stagger while walking with a dizzy appearance.
Sometimes, they may even walk into a piece of furniture as they find it difficult to move around. Aging cats often become sedentary due to disorientation and their inability to control limbs.
10. Trouble Standing
Aside from the loss of coordination, pains, and muscle weakness may also prevent your old-aged cat from walking around. As a result of old age and loss of appetite, the muscles will deteriorate.
Don’t be surprised to see your cat which used to jump fences now finding it hard to stand or walk on its own. At this point, the cat may become frustrated and depressed – any effort to stand will result in a collapse as a result of weakness.
Conclusion
As a pet owner, it can be quite painful to see your cat out of shape health-wisely. Most importantly, you never want him to struggle. However, while calling the final shot to your dog’s life may be difficult, you have to prioritize your dog’s need over your affections. You have to be objective. Speak to people who have passed through a similar situation.
Also, talking to your families and friends will help. Finally, get recommendations from your veterinarian, and choose the best decision for your cat. While considering your options, palliative care may be administered to keep your cat comfortable temporarily.