My cat has FIV and IBD. His recent blood tests showed severe non-regenerative anemia. The past few months have been really tough. He’s had bloody stools, refuses most foods, and has lost a lot of weight, now down to just 7lbs with almost no muscle left.
He seemed to be improving on a raw diet, but then he broke two teeth, had to get them removed, developed an abscess, and needed antibiotics. Now his mouth is healed, but he still isn’t eating, has started pooping outside the litter box even though it’s clean, and spends most of his time hiding and sleeping.
My partner thinks we may need to consider euthanasia since nothing we’re doing seems to help. He’s on steroids and appetite stimulants, but they aren’t making much difference. I keep wondering if there’s more we could try or if maybe there’s something we missed that could help him turn around.
I’ve never been in this position before, and it’s really weighing on me. How do you know when it’s the right time to make that kind of decision?
It’s so hard to make this decision. I think when they have no quality of life, and when you feel you’ve done everything you could, it might be time to let them go. If your vet agrees that there’s nothing more to be done and your cat seems to be in pain without relief, that might be the signal. I know it’s one of the hardest choices. You obviously love him a lot. Wishing you strength and peace with whatever you decide.
I’m a vet. This is something your vet can help guide you with, as they can give an objective opinion on your cat’s quality of life. Sometimes euthanasia is a way to relieve suffering, and cats don’t have a concept of time or future; they only know how they feel now.
One approach is to think about whether your cat is thriving or simply surviving. There are quality of life questionnaires that can help you evaluate his situation. I often recommend the Cloud 9 Vets questionnaire online to give some insight into areas where he might be struggling.
@Clove
Thank you. My vets have been helpful, but they don’t seem to have a clear answer for what else to try. A few weeks ago, I asked if euthanasia might be something to consider eventually, and they said maybe if he continues to decline, especially since he might need a blood transfusion, which we can’t afford, and it might only prolong things for a short time.
They also mentioned there’s a chance his kidneys aren’t doing well since his surgery. We’ve tried so many different foods, but nothing seems to work consistently, and he barely eats the ones he does like. He doesn’t play or show interest in anything he used to love, and he’s just skin and bones.
I feel guilty wondering if I could have done more, like trying more food options or different treatments. I’ll look into the quality of life questionnaire and plan to talk to the vet again.
I’ve been in a similar place before. My thoughts are with you. Focus on what makes him comfortable and brings him peace. You’re doing the best you can for him.