Signs that a Pet May be Dying

The first signs that a pet may be dying are usually subtle, so much so that a pet owner may not even recognize them until much later. If the pet is known to be ill, or is very old, these signs may signal the need for increased comfort care or euthanasia. If the pet is showing these signs unexpectedly, however, it’s very important to get it to a vet as soon as possible.

The first signs in a pet may be behavioral. Perhaps Patches, a beloved cat, is usually very friendly and greets each member of the family in the morning. If Patches is dying, she may not be interested in giving affection to her owners, and may appear withdrawn or begin hiding in unusual places. A dying pet may sleep more than is usual, and may appear to be lethargic and slow to respond. A pet may stop grooming itself in the last few days or weeks of life, and may appear irritable or hostile if it is in pain.

Since pets are unable to tell their owners when they are in pain, pet owners have to be very observant. Any pet that is hurt or ill should be taken to the vet as soon as the injury occurs or the illness begins. Only a vet can prescribe pain medications, properly set broken bones, and assess the possibility of serious illness or internal injuries. It is cruel to let a pet suffer needlessly.

When an animal is in pain, it may gasp for breath or pant. The pet may seem reluctant to move, or may refuse to move at all. The pet may react by growling, hissing, or biting when touched in a place that’s painful. Severe pain can cause drastic changes in the behavior of an animal, and should be a clue that something is drastically wrong.

If a pet is not eating, can barely move, and is in severe pain, it is kinder to have the pet put to sleep. Making the decision to euthanize a pet can be very difficult, since the relationship with a beloved pet can be so close. The ASPCA suggests that owners make an advance appointment for the pet to be euthanized, and then the appointment can be canceled if the owner changes his or her mind.

The ASPCA also offers a pet loss support program that helps pet owners through the decision-making process for euthanasia, and gives grief support and advice after the pet has been put to sleep. The pet loss support program can also give information about the dying process, and can refer pet parents to their veterinarian for further information.

If any signs that a pet may be dying are observed, it’s important to act quickly to minimize the animal’s suffering. Give the pet a quiet and comfortable place to lie down, cushioned with a pillow or soft blanket. Give the pet as much affection as it seems comfortable with, and talk softly and soothingly, in a quiet voice. Call a vet and describe the animal’s symptoms, and ask what you can do to make the pet more comfortable. Keep incontinent pets clean by changing bedding and wiping dirty fur with a warm, wet cloth. If the vet recommends medication, administer it only according to the vet’s instructions.

The loss of a family pet can be very difficult, and having a memorial service to honor the passing of your pet may provide feelings of closure. It will take time for the pain of loss to subside, and it may never go away completely. Losing a pet is easier, however, when the owner knows he or she did everything possible to make a pet’s last moments comfortable and dignified..

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