Afterthoughts

We have put a list together of topics that we feel can be overlooked when caring for a senior cat, especially if they are dependent on you as they will keep you on your toes. Some things can go unnoticed, forgotten or ignored and sometimes you don't want to think about them as they are difficult topics to discuss.

As your senior ages and starts to slow down its time to monitor and key an eye on their habits. Don't worry if your senior companion shows any of these signs. If they are showing multiple signs or consistently getting ill and you are worried or concerned consult your vet and they can advise.

This primarily comes down to your cats quality of life and some signs are more obvious than others. Friends who have said goodbye to their cats have always said you will know when it is time. You will know when it is time but you may find the hardest part is knowing you only have so many days left with them.

Vets are honest when it comes to pets wellbeing. They will normally talk to you if they think your cat is near their end of life. Its normal to feel selfish and not want to let them go but it wont be fair for them. You can only do so much and for them to get this far you should be proud. Its the right moment in time and the kindest time for them.

When you have set a date to say good bye to your little one its time to spend as much time as you can with them. Make it a time to celebrate and plan a get together or party with family and friends. Give them all the love and fuss they want and need. Its a natural feeling to have wanted to have done more or have spent more time with them when they have sadly passed.

Buy them nice foods such as tuna and prawns and even foods you remember them cheekily stealing off your plates. Just remember to give them small portions as they are still grazers and wont eat large portions. Depending on their current medication you might want to schedule changing their diet to the last few days. You still want them to be comfortable in their final days and the wrong foods may upset them.

Saying goodbye is never easy and you don't have to go through it alone. You can have a burial at home or request an individual or communal creation. It can be a personal decision but you can decide whether to be there during the euthanasia procedure. Whatever option you choose your cat is in the best care and you can remember your amazing memories. Euthanasia can be done at your local vet or at home and with your family and friends. Consult your vet to see which is right for you.

Everyone grieves differently. It can be applied to many experiences in life from trauma to the loss of a loved one. It can hit at random times and in different forms and emotions, and may not hit for sometime. You have to grieve in your own way and their is nothing wrong with wanting to spend some time on your own to process your own feelings.

When you are feeling low and ready to talk, reach out to family and friends. Not everyone is a cat or animal person but they will be there to listen. Talk as much as you need to and don't think you are talking to much. It is better to get it out. Talk about your feelings and also share you amazing memories.

Take one step at a time as it can be a big change in routine. When you are ready checkout our keep sakes section to help keep your cats memory alive.