I had to take my kitten to the emergency room, where they conducted numerous tests and ultimately decided that euthanasia was the best option. I was devastated. I had already paid $598 for all the tests and procedures. In the euthanasia room, when asked about services, I requested cremation but wasn’t given any prices. Overwhelmed with grief, I was presented with a $700 bill, which I assumed included everything, with euthanasia costing $102. However, a few days later, I noticed charges of both $598 and $700 on my credit card statement. When I emailed them, they replied that the euthanasia alone was $700. I feel completely taken advantage of during this difficult time. Is that amount excessive, or am I mistaken?
From what I’ve seen, euthanasia typically costs between $300 and $400 in an emergency room. Private cremation with an urn usually adds another $200 to $300. While $700 seems quite high, I understand how costs can rise in more expensive regions.
They should have discussed the pricing with you and provided an estimate for you to sign before proceeding with any treatment. It might be a good idea to request an itemized invoice to see how the charges break down. I’m really sorry for your loss.
If it was an emergency vet, that price isn’t surprising.
It’s not only for euthanasia; it also covers the medication, the veterinary professional providing the service, the cremation service, and probably a container for your pet’s ashes, which often includes a plaque with the pet’s name.
I also used cremation services. Emergency vets tend to charge more, but two years ago, I paid $540 for cremation and euthanasia at my vet, whose prices are quite reasonable. I didn’t opt for a fancy container for the remains since we were spreading them.
Stop downvoting OP she is struggling with this.
I’m sorry to hear that people are being unkind to you regarding this situation. Veterinary offices often mark up procedure prices significantly, especially at emergency clinics. My emergency vet has always provided itemized receipts detailing everything, and they should have done the same for you, especially considering you were likely very upset. I’m really sorry about your cat, and I hope you find a way to heal.
In the UK, when my cat needed to see an emergency vet, I spent £1,500 on his tests, euthanasia, and cremation, not including the £150 bracelet I had made from his ashes.
Pet care and services can be costly, even after a pet’s passing. I had an emergency vet bill of $1,200 and spend $80 on a bag of prescription cat food. Unfortunately, that’s just the reality. I wouldn’t say they took advantage of you; while this might be on the pricier side, it’s not unusual. It’s a tough lesson to learn, but it’s important to ask about costs before agreeing to any services.
About a month ago, I spent just over a thousand dollars for my cat’s euthanasia and private cremation. My cat is elderly and weighs around five pounds, probably similar to yours. Unfortunately, emergency vet services can be quite pricey, and handling cremains can also be regulated and costly.
The vet I visited provided me with an estimate and had a technician explain the process to me before anything was administered. I’ve never experienced it any other way. I suggest you leave a review expressing your wish that someone had given you an estimate ahead of time.
I’m very sorry for your loss.
It would have been helpful if they provided a price list when discussing options, but many vets only give cost estimates upon request. Some people prefer not to factor in price during such a difficult time as euthanasia. I understand your distress, but it was your responsibility to inquire about costs if it was important to you.
I don’t believe you were taken advantage of. Your total bill is lower than I would have anticipated for the range of tests, euthanasia, and cremation at an emergency vet, which usually costs significantly more than a regular veterinary clinic. When I had my last pet euthanized a couple of years ago, the bill for home euthanasia and private cremation for my small dog was just under $700 at my regular vet—not an emergency practice, which typically charges more. The home service added $60 to the cost, and cremation, especially private cremation, can be quite pricey.
The vet I went to provided an estimate and had a technician explain everything to me before proceeding. I’ve always experienced it that way. I suggest leaving a review mentioning that you wish you had received an estimate beforehand.
The issue is that you’re feeling overwhelmed, making it difficult to think clearly about this decision. It seems the vet didn’t communicate that the $700 fee for the final expenses was separate from the regular vet charges. Emergency vets often have much higher fees than standard vets, which is quite frustrating.
My total bill came to $668.00, which included $468.00 for the euthanasia and for returning her remains. The remaining $200 was for the doctor to inform me that it was time. I live in a very pricey area, so costs are high, and going to the emergency room adds to the expense since they operate 24/7.
OP, are you receiving the remains back? If not, you might be paying for the return of the ashes. $700 is quite steep for just getting the ashes, especially if that’s not the case.