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When should I consider humane euthanasia for my suffering cat?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 14 lbs

Mimi is somewhere between 10-15 years old. She's diabetic and has been on insulin for about 2 years. Her bad days are starting to be more than her good days. She doesn't let anyone touch her anymore, the only reason she gets her insulin is because she's eating and ignores us in preference of food. Is it better to put her to sleep when she's still having good days, or to wait until shes basically gone? I don't want her to suffer but I don't want to lose her either.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on April 29th, 2020

Poor Mimi. This is such a hard decision to make, I've been there many times myself. You are right that it's better to put her sleep while she still has some good days. You don't want her to get really bad and suffer. I understand not wanting to lose her, but one of the greatest gifts you can give her is letting her go without any further suffering. I hope this helps!

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