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My senior cat is sick with weight loss. When should I euthanize?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Male | neutered | 15 years and 2 months old | 8.3 lbs

15 yo cat been sick for 2 months. Vet visit confirmed he isn't in any obvious pain. But has weight loss, diarrhea, detached, wandering, and saw head pressing 3 times over 3 weeks. I know he's ill and I just want him comfy until it's time to euthanize. I have chosen not to seek various diagnostic to maybe know what is wrong and various treatments. I struggle with the decision of when to euthanize. I'm single and no kids. Any advice is much appreciated.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on January 19th, 2017

I'm so sorry G is so sick. I work for an home euthanasia service, so I face these kinds of questions frequently with my clients. I would look at G's quality of life in make the decision as to when to euthanize him. If he's in pain, losing weight, having diarrhea, detached, and head pressing, his quality of life isn't very good. When a cat is in constant pain, they will be suffering daily, and in my opinion, that is when it is time to let them go peacefully. It's never easy to say goodbye to a beloved pet, and they are often ready to go before we are ready to let them go. By letting G go peacefully and without further pain, you will be giving him one last great gift. If you'd like to discuss this further with me, I'd be happy to consult with you. Just click the "consult online" button under my answer. Again, I'm sorry he's so ill :-(

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    Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Did your veterinarian do blood tests? Your kitty could be suffering from hyperthyroidism, which is easily treated, or kidney failure, which can also be treated so your kitty has a good quality of life. With hyperthyroidism he can still live many years having a good life. Please have blood tests done, rather than letting him suffer and slowly die.

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