End-of-Life Planning Guide for Senior Cats. AgingCatCare.com

This is one of the hardest parts of loving a cat, and the fact that you're reading this speaks to how deeply you care. Thinking through these decisions while you're calm and clear-headed means you won't have to make them in a moment of crisis. There are no right or wrong answers here, only what feels right for you and your cat.

1. Quality of Life Criteria

These are your personal benchmarks. Cats often hide pain and illness, so filling these in now gives you a frame of reference when emotions run high.

My cat's quality of life is acceptable when...

I will begin end-of-life discussions with my vet if my cat shows...

For example: hiding away constantly, stopping grooming, refusing food or water, no longer using the litter box, pain that medication no longer controls, or no longer jumping up, interacting, or seeking affection.

The things that matter most to my cat are:

Signs I've agreed with my vet to watch for:

2. Veterinary Consultation Questions

Bring this list to your next appointment so you don't forget anything important.

What is the likely progression of my cat's condition?
What will the end stages look like?
Are there still treatment options we should consider?
Is hospice or palliative care an option to keep my cat comfortable at home?
How will I know when my cat is suffering vs. just having a bad day?
What does the euthanasia process involve?
Can it be done at home? What does that cost?
How far in advance should I schedule?

My additional questions:

3. Aftercare Preferences

Making these decisions ahead of time is a kindness to yourself during an incredibly difficult moment.

In-home euthanasia (a peaceful goodbye in familiar surroundings)
In-clinic euthanasia
Cremation, individual (ashes returned)
Cremation, communal
Home burial (check local regulations)
Pet cemetery burial
Keepsake: paw print impression or fur clipping
Other:

Preferred provider:

Phone:

Estimated cost:

Special requests:

4. Support Resources

You do not have to go through this alone. These are people and organizations that understand.

ASPCA Pet Loss Hotline: (877) 474-3310
Pet Loss Support Hotline (Cornell): (607) 218-7457
Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement: aplb.org

Local support groups:

My personal support people:

5. Memorial Ideas

There is no wrong way to honor the bond you shared. Choose what feels meaningful to you.

Photo book or album
Paw print impression or fur clipping keepsake
Custom portrait
Memorial stone or garden marker
Donation to a cat rescue or animal charity in their name
Plant a tree or garden
Memory box with collar, tags, favorite toy
Other:

6. A Letter to Your Cat

Write a letter to your cat, or capture your favorite memories together. There is no format to follow. Just write what is in your heart.