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How to know when it's time to humanely put my suffering cat to sleep?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Maine Coon | Male | neutered | 17 years and 7 months old

I have a Maine Coon cat that is almost 18 years old. In the past year he has started to display some symptoms that cause me concern. He vomits 5-6 times a day. Sometimes right after eating sometimes just bile. He cries a lot. He sometimes stands in one spot and just appears to be dazed. Sometimes though he seems fine. I dont want to do anything rash and honestly can not afford diagnostics but want to do the right thing for him. How do you know when it is time to put a pet to sleep?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By David Darvishian

Veterinarian

Published on November 15th, 2017

Hi and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Sorry to hear about Jake. Your question is one that is frequently asked. I try to counsel clients that once a pet stops eating, drinking, and just basically lays around, it's time to start thinking about one of several courses of action. These would be a diagnostic workup or start considering euthanasia. You said that you don't want to do a workup so I guess you should start considering euthanasia. It is possible that Jake has something that is very treatable like hyperthyroidism, but of course, that would involve a diagnostic workup. There are many things that it could be and some of them are treatable, and of course, some are not. Liver disease, kidney disease, diabetes, or even cancer are just some of the possible causes. The problem with vomiting is that unless you intervene, he will just continue to get weaker and weaker from fluid/electrolyte losses. This will lead to extreme lethargy, shock, and even death. I learned over the years that this experience is different for everyone. Some people can not under any circumstances, make the irreversible call of ending their pets life. I counsel clients but never push them unless I truly think that the pet is suffering. I would just say go with your heart and remember, sometimes euthanasia is the last gift of love that pet owners can give their beloved companions. Please know that whatever you decide, it is the right decision. Again, I'm sorry that you are going through this with Jake.

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    Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

    Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

    Published on September 12th, 2017

    Hi there! Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Sorry to hear that Moti is not feeling well. Vomiting, weakness, increased water intake and decreased urine production can be observed with kidney disease and failure, among many other conditions. This would be common in an older kitty. I think it would be good to have Moti evaluated by your veterinarian for further diagnostics and treatment. If you are unable or prefer not to proceed with further treatments for her and she is not feeling well, humane euthanasia would be fair to consider. I am really sorry and hope that he feels better! Have a good evening!

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