false

/content/dam/new-combined-vet-hospitals-site/small-animals/2024-05-ssvs-clinics-and-buildings-camperdown-2024-photo-credit-nicola-bailey-165.jpg

50%

Palliative care and euthanasia for cats

Compassionate palliative care and end-of-life services, supporting comfort, dignity and quality of life

m-hero--simple

2000.1334.2x.jpeg 4000w, 1280.1280.jpeg 1280w, 440.293.2x.jpeg 880w, 1440.960.2x.jpeg 2880w, 800.533.2x.jpeg 1600w, 220.147.2x.jpeg 440w

false

_blank

Contact our Sydney location

h2

(02) 9351 3437

cmp-call-to-action--ochre

_blank

Contact our Camden location

h2

(02) 4655 0777

cmp-call-to-action--grey

What is palliative care?

Making decisions about your pet's quality of life can be one of the most difficult parts of pet ownership. Our role is to support you with clear information, guidance, and compassionate care.

Palliative care focuses on maintaining comfort and quality of life for pets with chronic or life-limiting conditions.

This may include:

  • Pain management
  • Support for mobility
  • Nutritional support
  • Management of chronic disease
  • Adjustments to the home environment

Palliative care does not aim to cure disease, but to ensure your pet remains as comfortable and supported as possible.

We will work with you to regularly assess your pet’s quality of life and adjust their care as their needs change.

How do I assess my cat's quality of life?

Changes in quality of life can be gradual and difficult to recognise.

We may discuss:

  • Appetite and hydration
  • Mobility and comfort
  • Behaviour and interaction
  • Continence and toileting habits
  • Ability to perform normal daily activities

These discussions help guide decisions and ensure your pet’s welfare remains the priority.

When should I consider euthanasia for my senior cat?

Euthanasia may be considered when a pet’s quality of life has declined and comfort can no longer be maintained.

This is a deeply personal decision, and there is no single “right” time. Our team is here to help guide you based on your pet’s condition and your individual circumstances.

What should I expect on the day of my cat's euthanasia?

  • You will have time to ask questions and discuss any concerns
  • You can choose to stay with your pet throughout the process
  • We will guide you through each step
  • Aftercare options will be discussed with you 

Can my cat have euthanasia at home?

Some owners prefer for euthanasia to be performed at home, where their pet may feel more comfortable in a familiar environment. This can be particularly beneficial for pets who are anxious or find the clinic environment stressful.

While we do not routinely offer home euthanasia services, we can recommend experienced veterinary providers who perform this service.

If this is something you would like to consider, please speak with our team and we can help guide you through the available options.

What happens after my cat's euthanasia?

We can assist with arrangements following your pet’s passing, including cremation options.

For some owners, body donation to support veterinary teaching and research may also be an option. This allows your pet to contribute to the training of future veterinarians.

If you would like more information about aftercare or body donation, our team can guide you through the available choices.

Support for you

We understand that losing a pet is difficult.

If you need support or would like to talk through your options, our team is here to help.

If you are concerned about your pet's quality of life, please contact us to discuss how we can support you.

Palliative care and euthanasia FAQs

Deciding when to say goodbye can be very difficult. Your veterinarian can help assess your cat’s quality of life, comfort, mobility and ability to enjoy daily activities to guide this decision.

No, euthanasia is designed to be a peaceful and humane process. Your cat is typically given sedation first, followed by medication that allows them to pass away calmly and without distress.

The cost of cat euthanasia varies depending on factors such as appointment timing, location and additional services like aftercare. Your veterinary team can explain fees clearly before proceeding.

Cat palliative care focuses on comfort, pain relief and quality of life for cats with serious or life‑limiting conditions. It aims to support both the cat and their family during this stage of care.

Yes, owners are welcome to be with their dog during euthanasia if they wish. Your veterinarian will explain each step and support you throughout the process.

In some cases, euthanasia may be required urgently or outside normal hours for animal welfare reasons. Availability and options can be discussed directly with the veterinary hospital at the time of contact.