End of Life Care
Our veterinary team understands firsthand how painful it is to say goodbye to a feline friend, so we’re committed to doing everything possible to support you during the process.
Hospice Care
Hospice Care is an end-of-life stage that begins once your veterinarian determines that further treatment will not improve your cat’s condition and that continuing any aggressive procedures might cause unnecessary pain or discomfort.
At this stage, our primary goal is quality of life, and we take every comfort measure possible so you can have more precious time with your cat.
Aligned with our passion for individualized veterinary care, our team will develop a customized plan, including:
- Pain Management through medication
- Comfort measures with special bedding or a temporary litter box that’s easier to use if your cat has mobility issues
- Nourishment techniques to make food more attractive for your cat
- Grooming needs that are unique to your cat’s condition, including gentle brushing, wiping drainage, etc.
Hospice care is not meant to take the place of euthanasia – there will be a point in hospice care that euthanasia is the most humane course of action for your beloved friend.
Knowing When It’s Time
A decision concerning euthanasia may be one of the most difficult decisions you will ever make. Although it is a highly personal decision, it doesn’t need to be a solitary one. Your veterinarian can help you make the best decision for your cat, and we’re here to support you through the process.
Our veterinarians administer a tranquilizer first to relax your cat before injecting it with the euthanasia drug. Your pet will immediately become deeply and irreversibly unconscious and will no longer be able to experience pain. It’s not uncommon for a pet to move its legs or head, or even breathe deeply several times, after the drug is given. These are reflexes and are not an indication that your cat is suffering.
It’s never an easy decision to make, but euthanasia is often the kindest thing you can do for a pet that is extremely ill or injured without hope of recovering. As you grieve the loss of your pet, we’re here to help you decide how to handle your cat’s remains.