LoveToKnow Cats:AllComments

From LoveToKnow Cats

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I am so devastated and I am sad to say...My Tigger passed away in my arms today...it is so painful and I am ripped apart. My heart is broken....Blue and I are depressed...but we rest in the assurance that he is not suffering anymore, he is with God and his Angels...Thank you God and Arch Angel Michael for giving me the opportunity to love such a good spirited, unconditional loving cat "My tigger". PS: My heart goes out to all of you who have experienced the same thing or are about to go thru it....Love is taught by the four legged ones and they have hearts bigger than humans...I wish we were more like them, all so giving and never asking for much in return...but a good scritchy behind the ear....Love Ya! My Tigger.

-- Contributed by: Ana

Hi! My Tigger is an American short hair orange cat, that looks like Morris. When I saw him at the South Florida Fair we both knew instantly that we belong to each other. He was only 4 months old and always had a great personality and very vocal...you can say a real mama cat...but he likes his independence too. Back in June 09 I noticed something different and took him to the vet and found out he had Mega Colon...I nursed him back to health (following vet's advice) he seemed to be ok for a while, but when I returned from my trip in July he started looking fraile so I took him back to the vet and learned the toxins of the Mega Colon affected his kidneys and now he is suffering an acute anemia and kidney failure...I am tryng my best, I am feeding him low protein renal food; and since he stop drinking water recently, I now have to use a baby syringe to squirt water in his mouth(he doesn't seem to mind me doing all this). I am also giving him shots of Epogen and Depo-Medrol and it seems to be working and giving me hope, but now this week he went down hill and his condition is consuming him and it is breaking my heart to see; he is slowly dying, he is still a young cat..it's so hard, I cry everyday...but just as I watched my dad die in Hospice two weeks ago, I beleive it is in God's hands and Divine Plan...My baby needs me and I decided it is inhumane to put him to sleep...he will go when he is ready in the comfort of his own home. My cat taught me everything I know of unconditional love, although I still have my Siamese named Blue and the thought that I can get another cat, still it's not my Tigger...I love him so much, Arch Angel Michael is with him.

-- Contributed by: Ana

Hi, sadly we are loosing our wonderful cat. The comment I would like to make is..."why do vets have to make it so unreachable for most of us to get help for our animals? Do their prices really need to be so high? It seems so unfair.

-- Contributed by: Maureen

Hi Mandy,

I would first have the vet do some blood work. That will tell you if you are dealing with renal failure or possibly cancer. Thirteen is older for a cat, but most live to fifteen or sixteen and some into their twenties. The vet will be better able to tell you what might be done to help her.

-- Contributed by: LoriSoard

I think I am loosing my beloved Casey. I took her to the vet yesterday for refusing to eat and weight loss. He could not get her to let him take her temp, but did say she had bad breath. He put her on antibiotics with antioxidants in it. Now today her breathing is labored and noisy. After doing much research on the internet today, I am struggling with the decision to possibly have her put to sleep tomorrow if she is still like this. I am thinking she may have kidney failure...She is only 13 years old, but I dont want her to suffer needlessly

-- Contributed by: Mandy

Hi Katie,

I'm so sorry for your loss. It is never easy to lose a pet, but when it happens quickly I think it is even harder. He sounds like he was a wonderful companion. I hope your pain eases with time and you are able to remember the good times you had with Sammy. Once that happens, you'll probably be ready for a new cat. Until then, I will keep you in my thoughts. Again, so sorry for your loss.

-- Contributed by: LoriSoard

Hi my Cat Sammy passed away yestarday, he went down hill very quickly the vet said he has got internal bleeding i broke down in tears when i seen my Baby cat sammy lying there dying i just wanted to pick him up and hug him i miss him so much everytime i look at his picture i cry i loved him so much and always be in my heart forever and he died peacfully in the pdsa. i read these symptoms and they helped so much thank you

-- Contributed by: katie

Hi Sad at Heart,

I'm sorry to hear your cat is in the process of dying. I know how hard it can be to watch a dear friend come to the end of his life. If you feel he is suffering, you might want to discuss the option of euthanasia with your veterinarian.

I'm really sorry to hear you are going through this. I hope your cat doesn't suffer and passes peacefully when it is his time.

-- Contributed by: LoriSoard

My cat is in the process of passing away, although he appears to be extremely comfortable and is not experienceing any pain, he keeps fighting. It has been four days and at this point it would be a blessing to see him let go. He is 17 years of age and has been a major blessing to our family. We will miss him very much. I always knew that this day would come, however I never fully understood the pain involved with watching him through this. I wish there was more that I could do. This website has answered quite a few concerns and questions that I had, thank-you.

-- Contributed by: SAD@HEART

Hi JBMagpie,

I'm so sorry to hear that you've lost Rose. It is so hard when our pets so, especially when it is unexpected. I know not everyone agrees, but I do think our pets will be waiting for us when we go to heaven. After all, there are horses there.

I hope that time brings healing and you'll be able to remember more of the happy times with your cat. Sending some cyber hugs your way.

-- Contributed by: LoriSoard

sept.29,09 i just lost my "ROSE" so, fast and unexpectedly, i still cant stop crying. i miss her so much! she was a 11 yr. old manx-tiger. after, i prepared her for her burial, i noticed her pink paw pads were yellow. i hopeit is true she will be waiting for me, when it is my turn to go to the other side!!!

-- Contributed by: paininthebut

Hi Helen,

I'm so sorry for your loss. It's very hard to make a decision like this, but it sounds like Tabbie was really suffering. It also sounds like Sara is very happy to have a new home.

-- Contributed by: LoriSoard

I just had to hve my cat, Tabbie, of 19 years put down. He was so sweet. He had a seizure early Wednesday morning. I had him cremated so I will always have him with me. I now have a 4 year old which I rescued from an animal shelter. Her name is Sara. She is so sweet. She kneads and talks all the time. She has helped me throug this time of sorrow.

-- Contributed by: Helen

Hi Carol,

I'm sorry that you've lost Jeffrey, but glad we could offer some advice that gave you the comfort of knowing he didn't have to suffer. Sending some cyber hugs your way. It's never easy to lose a family member and cats are so much a part of our family.

-- Contributed by: LoriSoard

Thank you so much for this website. It helped us over the weekend. Our beloved cat Jeffrey (age 16) was acting very strangely, and he had many of these signs. We had him put to sleep. He died instantly and peacefully. Your website helped us know it was time.

-- Contributed by: Carol

Hi Anna,

It can be very hard to watch our pets age and to know our time with them may be coming to an end. I went through this with my Siamese. It was hard knowing she wouldn't be around much longer. She died last fall and I miss her terribly. I do have other pets and a cat that keep me busy, but she had a special place in my heart.

I hope you get many more years with Vincent.

-- Contributed by: LoriSoard

Vincent may be getting to the end of his life, he will be 15 years old this july 19th, if he makes it. he has lost alot of weight, sometimes he can't control his pooping, he'll wander from room to room like he's looking for something, one thing is strange he is always hungry, I took him to the vet and everything is normal, i will love him and keep him as comforatble as i can. Anna

-- Contributed by: My cat Vincent

Hi Betty,

I'm so sorry that Yeti is aging and going through this. You're likely right that she is nearing the end of her life. However, sometimes cats have renal failure and issues that can be treated with steroids or other medications. This can extend the cat's life, with decent quality, for several months and sometimes several years. I would go ahead and take her to the vet. Have him or her work up a complete blood panel and test for things like renal function, kidney function, blood counts and so on. This will give the vet a good idea of whether the cat can be helped or not. I hope she gets better and you have more time with her.

-- Contributed by: LoriSoard

My wonderful Himalayan mixed breed cat Yeti is 17 years old. She is drinking a lot of water but refuses to eat. Even Tuna. She feels colder. I am very sad because I think she is dying. I know this is inevitable but I truly love and care for her. What can i do to help her?

-- Contributed by: Betty

Hi Wayne,

The first thing I would do is check for fleas. The scabs might be from digging, which fleas will make a cat do that. If you rule that out, then I'd go ahead and take him or her to the vet for a checkup. The vet should be able to give you a good idea of what is causing the scabbing and wounds.

-- Contributed by: LoriSoard

Please don't be angry about your Princess dying~~I know it's hard to accept right now, but just know she lived a long, wonderful life with you and her spirit will stay with you... try to celebrate her life and how she helped you get to where you are today. When you think of her try to smile and be grateful of your loving relationship~~you had such a wonderful girl to grow up with! But, it was her time to go~19 years is a long time, about 95 years old in human years. It's the circle of life... a time to live, a time to die. I know it's hard to accept right now, but it will be easier over time. Maybe you can do something to honor her each year to celebrate her life~~maybe contribute $5.00 to a no-kill shelter or even just a big bag of catnip! Eventually, you may be able to rescue another cat that desperately needs someone to love like you. Try to be happy that your girl had a special life with you~~not every cat gets to have such a long life filled with so much love! : ) Please go to the website listed below to help with your grief~~it has been a great comfort to us~~my daughters' beloved cat of 18 years has been slowly dying in the last few days... and altho we are so saddened to try to accept she will be gone, we are also so very grateful for having her in our lives for all this time. We will always miss her... and you will always miss your Princess~~ whenever you do something special that she loved to do,(maybe sit in a sunbeam or whatever she loved) think of her and smile and she'll be right there with you in your heart forever. And when you are feeling sad and people don't understand, just tell them you've lost your best friend and you were just thinking about her... take care~~you will get stronger, but just give yourself some time right now... god bless.

anaflora.com/grieving/beloved

-- Contributed by: "MomCat"

my cat has alot of scabs

-- Contributed by: wayne

Hi Ekon,

I'm so sorry that you've lost Princess. She sounds like she was a great cat. I lost my cat of fifteen years not too long ago too. It is tough. But, it does slowly start to get better with time and you can then remember the happy times you had together.

Now probably isn't the right time, but when you're ready, I know Princess would want you to have that companionship of another cat. Rescuing one from an animal shelter might be a positive thing to do as you'll be saving the cat's life.

Hang in there and try to focus on the good times you had together.

-- Contributed by: LoriSoard

my cat died today this morninh at 1:07 between 1:08 and actually prenounced dead at 1:09 she was 19, im 21 ive had her since i was 2.i have to say she was my best friend in the world i love her to death and i hate the fact that this is happend..so much bad has happend in my life she was the only thing that brought good to my life.she was loyal and commitited always wanting to go n my room always waiting on my bed till i came back!she hated when i left her..or even when i slept and my face didnt face hers..she hated me sleeping facing my back towards her face..i love my girl so much i can describe the hate im filling..i have more hate then grieving right now.i always looked forward to comin home to her.she was my everything. my family knew that my friends and even my gfs..and now she is gone.what am i going to do?when i come home everynigh i will be alone.she use to grab ahold of my hand and squeeze it when i would sleep with her side by side..i have no brothers, im not close to my mother and father and my friends arents really friends and im singel.she was what kept me strong.this is my first few hours with out her and i hate being inthis house! i want to keep my self busy and just not thing of her but i fill that soo wrong..it just hurts to much to think of her..i dont want life to go on. i want her here i guess i havent excepted the fact that shes gone.im denial i guess..i fill numb in my chest and have nothing to say verbaly! but when i think of her i start to cry..i cant help but to blame god.for him takenher away from me theonly girl i ever trullyloved and loved me to the fullist!everyone saids she was livin for me!.and i believe it..all these symstoms you speak of is what she whent threw this last week of suffering!..i just wish her spirit follows me everywhere i go..even when i move..im constantly moving every year..and i hope when i die i hope im re united with her..i fill miserable with out my pretty girl..her name was princess and she was orange..and vary spoiled by me and protected by me..i love her!:(

-- Contributed by: RIP."PRINCES"..2-1-09.i love you always and forever!

Hi Lessermsytery,

I'm so sorry to hear that your cat is this ill. It is very hard to lose our companions. I lost my 15-year-old cat just recently. It was hard. Be sure to tell her how much you love her and what a good companion she has been for you. I'm sure she already knows, but it never hurts to tell those we love what they mean to us. I hope she doesn't suffer too greatly.

-- Contributed by: LoriSoard

my cat is dying right now. this is really the only article online that i could find, that explains the dying process in cats in this much detail.

it's a hard night, and i'm grateful for the support this article and the responses to it can provide.

tomorrow she will be euthanized, so this is my last night with her.

i love the mew and i will miss her.

-- Contributed by: lessermystery@yahoo.com

Hi Anna,

I'm sorry to hear that Buster is gone. I'm sure you'll miss him greatly. It is amazing what a comfort animals bring to us. Pets tend love us no matter how we look, smell or act. In fact, there really isn't any other kind of unconditional love like that a cat gives us. Parents even have expectations of us, although they love us. Cats, however, only expect to be petted and fed, which is a pretty easy order to fill.

Just think about Buster with your parents. I'm sure they are taking good care of him for you. Again, I'm sorry for your loss.

-- Contributed by: LoriSoard

My dear friend passed yesterday, after being sent to us 16 years as our guardian angel.He came into my yard one month before my Father was dying and as if he knew he no longer had to stay he died two months after my Mother died.Buster was positive with feline leukemia for many years but he always fought it until yesterday. Good By my friend...Anna

-- Contributed by: Anna

Hi Laurie,

I'm so sorry for your loss. I went through this recently myself with a baby cat of mine. She was my baby when I couldn't get pregnant and we continued to be very close even after I had children. I agree that it is very difficult to go through losing them.

It sounds like you did the right thing. She was a wonderful companion and friend for 19 years and you didn't want her to suffer at the end.

Everyone has different beliefs on where animals go after death. Personally, I believe they go to heaven. Some pastors will disagree with me, but the Bible does talk about horses, lions and lambs, so why not domestic cats too? I'm sure she is in a better place and that you'll get to see her again one day.

-- Contributed by: LoriSoard

I lost my almost 19 year old cat last night. I had her since she was a baby. She was my first child before I had children of my own. It was and is one of the saddest moments of my life. It is a difficult decision to euthanize and I was arguing with my husband over the last couple of months that I wanted her to die in peace at home until I saw her last night. She pretty much sleeps most of the time, but she was eating very very well. She also still used her litter box as best as she could. She could not jump into a normal litter box anymore so I would make small litter boxes for her out of cardboard boxes so she was able to jump in. She tried, but a lot of time missed the box. Last night I think she had a seizure... she walked into my bedroom and fell over on the floor. She lost use of her back legs right there and then.....I thought maybe she broker her hip. Then she went to the bathroom, both pee and poo right there on the spot at the same time. I've heard this is a sign of the end when they do this. She started panting heavily and drooling and seemed very very disoriented. When I would touch her she would meow very loudly as if in pain. That was the realization that something had to be done right away. It was very difficult but we called the vet and my husband brought her down to be euthanized. I hope and pray she is in a better place. I miss her terribly. Thanks for listening.

-- Contributed by: Laurie

Hi Annabella,

I'm so sorry that your cat is starting to fail. It is truly heartbreaking. I just went through this myself. All I can tell you is that you will know when it is time to take him to the vet, should you choose to have him euthanized. It will be the point where he is no longer responsive and seems to be more in pain than enjoying his life.

Perhaps he will still simply pass on in his sleep, which I think is a bit easier on the owner because you don't second guess yourself about whether you made the right choice.

You probably don't want to think about it now, but later on it does help to get a new cat. It isn't that you don't still miss the other pet, but it gives you something else to focus upon and think about, which helps.

Tell your cat you love him, hold him close and know that he has lived a good, long life that has been filled with companionship and love.

-- Contributed by: LoriSoard

My dearest 20 years old friend is experiencing plenty of restless. He's apparently healthy, never had a major problem in his life. He's being with me since he was 8 weeks old but now I think his final moments are coming. How to be sure? I wanted so much for him to pass on his dreams but he's behavior is changing daily mostly because of the restlessness. I don't want to hesitate and letting him go before his time, but I don't want to see him like this not knowing what he's going through. He looks at me and talks, if only I could understand what he is trying to tell me. I love him so much and it'll be so hard without him.

-- Contributed by: Annabella

Hi Ruby,

It sounds like you trusted your instincts and did what was best for you and your cat. The fact that you have peace about the way things went speaks volumes. Don't let anyone make you feel guilty for your choices in this area. Every situation, cat and owner is different and you have to do what is right for you. I'm sorry for your loss and hope you are able to eventually get past your sadness and focus on the happy memories.

-- Contributed by: LoriSoard

This was very helpful. I was having trouble getting straight-forward answers to my questions regarding my the death of my 20-year-old cat mate. I felt guilty for prolonging his life with home remedies instead of just following the vet's suggestion and putting him to sleep. He died quickly, though, and we held each other tight the entire night before. Though the vet made me feel guilty, I think maybe it was OK for it to end this way.

-- Contributed by: Ruby

Hi Rick,

It does sound like he has lived a wonderful, full life. 19 plus years is a good long life for a feline. You may want to go ahead and take him to the vet, however. There may be treatment available to extend his life a bit more. At least you will have the peace of mind of knowing you did all you could. Also, there are some vets who will come to your home and euthanize there, if it is his time. This is often more comforting to the cat, as he will be in familiar surroundings and not have to make a stressful trip. Make sure, if you choose to euthanize, that the vet does it as a two-step process and gives a sedative first. This is much gentler on the cat.

-- Contributed by: LoriSoard

My cat is displaying almost all of the symptoms. He is still able to get up and get to litter box but is very unstable and falls over. I got him in 1989 as a grown cat so he has lived a very full life. Quality of life is going downhill so I might have to make the trip to the vet, I would rather he was a home of course.

-- Contributed by: Rick

Hi Angela,

What did the urine sample tell him, if anything? Also, did he do any blood work to determine if her organs were functioning correctly?

I just went through this with my sixteen-year-old cat, who unfortunately passed away. My advice would be to take her back to the vet immediately, even if you have to go to emergency. You may even want to get a second opinion from another vet. They each have their specialty areas.

Hope your cat feels better soon.

-- Contributed by: LoriSoard

I have a cat that is 17 yrs old. We took her to the vet because we found a very liquidy throw up with white froth in it. She had been hiding and sleeping most of that day. I told the vet she was lethargic ,and looked dehidrated. He deternmined that she had a small ulcer on the back of her throat he said probably caused from needing a dental. He also gave her some fluids and kept her over night. He took a urine sample and sent it off . However he sent her home today. Tonight I worry if she will make it through the night. She is cool to touch, not eating or drinking, sleeping a lot, and very lethargic.

Any adivice?
Thanks Angela

-- Contributed by: Angela

Hi Terry,

It does sound like she may be having some issues with renal failure or other organ failure, which is often the case with an elderly cat. Often, cats will try to sneak away and die on their own, so that may be why she left for a while.

Even though she is this elderly, I would go ahead and take her to the vet. There may still be something he/she can do for your cat to extend her life a bit more or at the very minimum make her comfortable.

If the vet recommends that she be put down, there are some veterinarians who will come to your home and euthanize your cat in the comfort of the cat's normal surroundings. If that option is not something you would be interested in, and you want her to die naturally, then you can always take her back home. However, the vet can give you pain medications or sedatives that may make things easier on your cat during this time.

I'm sorry that your cat seems to be failing. I went through this recently with a cat I'd had for sixteen years. It's so very hard to love a beloved pet. Just sending some hugs your way.

-- Contributed by: LoriSoard

I have a 19 and half female tabby Tiger who has been with us since 6 weeks old. She's avery tough girl too. She had lost alot of weight and I was told she had thryoid trouble so she takes her meds daily and eats pretty well but her weight nevercame back. This was diagnosed about a year ago. She recently snuck out one night and she came in the next morning and is very restless wont sit still long, eating only a few bites of food and strangely she wants to play with water but won't drink any yet. I am concerned as she wont go in litter box but only on our bathroom rug. She also is making a different meowing soung but doesent seem to be in pain. Any suggestions to be sure and keep her comfortable. I want her to die in her own home and bed. Thanks, Terry

-- Contributed by: FINAL SIGNS OF DYING

Hi Gloria,

This must be a very difficult situation for your family, and for your cat as well. From this point forward, she runs a daily risk of misadventure, so you'll want to keep an extra eye on her. It might be helpful to limit her territory if you can by keeping most of the doors closed. By all means, keep her litterbox in the same location to avoid even more confusion.

The decision to euthanize a pet is a very personal one, and you know you cat better than anyone. Do you feel she still has a decent quality of life? Do you feel like you are able to continue caring for her in this condition? If your answers to these questions are yes, you can keeping taking the situation on a day to day basis. Just follow your heart and it will lead you to the right decision.

Best wishes.

-- Contributed by: Kelly

Hi Amber,

I'm so sorry to hear about your cat. The fact that her eyes are dilated tells me her situation is serious, and at the least she is very ill. I cannot say for sure that she is dying. This could be a bad case of kidney stones since she's laying in the litter box. If at all possible, you might want to put on a pair of heavy gloves and try to pick her up and take her to the vet, just to be sure. Be very careful around her midsection.

Thank you for sharing your situation, and I wish you all the best.

-- Contributed by: Kelly

Hi Jess,

I'm sorry to hear that your cat is ill. I know how hard it is to lose a pet. I have had cats typically live to be around 16 or 17, but occasionally one will live to 19 or 20 (Siamese area breed that tends to have longevity of life). Even though she is acting like she isn't well and she is elderly, I would go ahead and take her to the vet. There may be something they can do for her that might extend her life a few more years. Or she may just have an infection of some sort. Hope that helps.

-- Contributed by: LoriSoard

My tabby is 21 years old. she has recentlygone deaf and has lost her vision. the past couple of days she has gotten worse. she just wanders all over the house bumping into walls or anything that is in her way cause she cannot see. she got stuck behind the washer last night from her wandering. we are worried about for her it like she is lost or searching for something. she eats very little and only when you put the bowl up to her nose. Do we wait on her own to pass away. we have had her since she was 6 weeks old it is really hard.

-- Contributed by: Gloria

My cat is 5 years old. I found her laying in her litter box (which is very unusual) this morning crying. i picked her up and took her out but she tried to bite me so I would put her down. Her eyes are dialated and she doesn't seem to want to be held or touched. She has been breathing heavily all day. What is going on with her? Is it just an illness or is she truly dying?

-- Contributed by: Amber

I AM 14 years old and my cat is dying. She has been around gor my whole life. She is about 16 or 17 years old. She was fine yesterday and then this morning she wasnt acting normal. She ate fine this mprning too. She has yet to pass. My question is how old id "old"? How long does it usually take for a cat to pass?

-- Contributed by: Jess

Hi Angela,

Ten is not really that old for a cat. Most of my cats have lived to be sixteen and beyond. It's possible that she just has an infection or some type of illness. Since she is not eating, I would take her to the vet and see if you can find out what is going on with her.

The glassy eyes could be caused by an infection as well.

You are her "mommy" and know her better than anyone, so if her behavior seems off to you, then trust your instincts. Hope she's okay!

-- Contributed by: LoriSoard

I have no idea what is wrong! My cat is ten years of age & she has recently been constantly whining & crying for me. She has a dry nose & her eyes look very "glossy". She has not aten for a couple of days. Is this a sign of passing on? Should i worry? Please help!!!

-- Contributed by: Angela

Hi Vanessa,

Thirteen may be young enough to recover from an illness. Since she is so lethargic and having accidents, I think you should take her to the vet immediately. Be sure to write out all the symptoms beforehand, so you don't forget to mention anything. This may just be something like kidney issues or an infection, or it could be more serious. It would be best to know for sure, so you can help her if that is an option. Please check back and let us know how she's doing.

-- Contributed by: LoriSoard

My cat is 13 years old too and as we speak she is laying on the floor. Im calling her name and telling her she is a good kitty but she doesnt even acknowlege me. She has been really sleepy, hardly touching her food, she even got sick on the rug twice this week and she had an accident right outside her litter box? Do you think these are her last hours? If so, what should I be doing for her. Right now Im keeping ice water her (its her favorite) petting her and holding her every moment i can and telling her what a great kitty she is. Do you think she is dying? And is there anything else I can do for her?

-- Contributed by: Vanessa

Hi SR,

I'm so sorry for your loss. It's never easy to lose a pet, because they are so much a part of our family, but I think an unexpected death is even harder.

The symptoms on brain tumors can vary and some tumors grow more quickly than others. Don't blame yourself. There likely wasn't much the vet could have done for her even if you'd noticed brain tumor symptoms. The vision was probably a symptom of the tumor, but older cats sometimes have vision loss, so how were you to know?

I'm just sending some cyber-hugs your way. It sounds like she was a wonderful cat.

-- Contributed by: LoriSoard

I lost my 13 year old cat today. The doctor said 99% positive it was brain tumor/cancer. She was losing her hair right before dying. Im so confused though. Can anyone be so kind as to email me info on brain tumor and illness/death symptoms. She went into the hospital w/high blood pressure of 300, deydrated, loss of sight and heart murmur. I thought she was getting better in the a.m., but then she took turn for worse and her body temp went down and heart rate fast, and placed on oxygen. She was losing lots of hair. She had lost so much weight, and I noticed her vision wasnt right and she didnt purr anymore. I miss her so much! Answers will make me feel better. Thank you so much. S.

-- Contributed by: SR

Hi Wren,

The most likely culprit is fleas or other parasites, but the bug bombs should have taken care of this problem. Stress is sometimes to blame for the type of overgrooming she is doing, but it's most likely fleas. I would go ahead and take her to the vet and have her dipped, but first have a bug expert come in and make sure you are truly rid of the parasites. This is for your own health as well as the cat.

-- Contributed by: LoriSoard

My cat is 24 yrs old, we recently moved to a humid , hot climate after years in the mountians. I rented a place that had to be bombed five times for fleas, bought frontline for her , and she is acting all confused and losing almost ALL her HAIR in one big patch of pink only on her left side. Could this be stress from moving? Could she have gotten into a pesticide? Are the fleas doing it? She just sits there and pulls all her hair out on one side. The floor is covered with mouthfulls of her hair. HELP!!!

-- Contributed by: wren

Hi Carl,

The first thing I'd do is isolate the older cat with his own litter box for a few days. This will help you see which cat has the problem. It's likely the older cat. A sudden change in litter box behavior can indicate illness, so if it turns out to be him, I'd go ahead and take him to the vet at his advanced age.

-- Contributed by: LoriSoard

I have 2 cats, female and male, the male I think is about 18 years old, and the female about 8, one of them has been pooping, not in the litter box at night. I clean the litter box 2 twice a day. both cats has always been inside, I was felt them by ex-girl friend I need some help

-- Contributed by: Carl Eddy

Hi Karissa,

I'm so sorry for your loss. Is it possible that she could have gotten into some type of poison or eaten a plant that was poisonous? Without an autopsy, it is hard to say what might have caused this.

-- Contributed by: LoriSoard

Hi, I hope you can help me. I just lost my persian who was only 8yrs old suddenly, w/no noticeable symptoms prior to her death. I wasn't around her the whole morning but did see her about two minutes before she passed away and she was running in circles and jumping a bit and flopped over on her side. When I got to her she gasped for air and then died immediately. What could have caused this reaction and for her to expire so quickly? She was outdoors at the time but there's no poisonous things around... Thanks for your thoughts on this! -Karissa

-- Contributed by: Karissa

Hi Carol,

I'm so sorry your cat is suffering from this. We had a cat die from this horrid disease. He suffered a very violent death and if I could do it over again I would take him and have him put to sleep rather than listening to my dad who insisted the cat would get better. My dad really loved the cat and didn't want him to die.

I think you will know when it is time, should you choose to have him euthanized. For me, it is when the pet is no longer getting any enjoyment out of his life because he is in so much pain. The cat will not respond to your voice or touch and will sometimes howl in pain. The cat will often be lethargic, will not eat or drink. There are some vets who will come to your home to put your cat to sleep as well. Some people feel this is less stressful to the pet as they are in a familiar environment.

Just sending you some cyber hugs and hoping that your cat does not suffer.

-- Contributed by: LoriSoard

My beloved cat is dying. Ater eight wonderful years his Feline Leukemia is overpowering his ability to survive. I want his death to be peaceful. I just want him to pass on in his sleep. I hate this, watching him like this but I am scared to take him to the vet to be put down. What should I do and when should I take him to the vet. Is it possible for my cat to pass on gracefully Carol

-- Contributed by: Carol MacNeil

Hi Traci,

Do you mean that he has diarrhea? If so, you should go ahead and take him to the vet. Cats can leave much older than sixteen years occasionally, so this may just be a minor thing that the vet can easily treat. If diarrhea isn't the problem, then please post again and be sure to add as many details about his behavior as you can.

-- Contributed by: LoriSoard

Hi I have male cat that is about 16 years old and for the past few weeks he has been pooping without knowing it. I wanna know if that is sign that he will be passing away soon. I really hope that someone can help me.

-- Contributed by: Traci

Hi Sara,

I'm sorry to hear your cat has cancer. It sounds like you've thought out her last days carefully and I'm sure she'll be comforted and at peace when her time comes.

You've made a good point about calling a vet to your home. I have not had the bad experience you did with putting animals down when they are suffering. However, I don't want to have that experience either, so I'm going to remember your advice when the time comes for some of my older pets.

-- Contributed by: LoriSoard

Hi Kayella,

Do you mean that you lost your cats to Distemper? I know it lives for up to a year in the home. I'm so sorry for your loss. Three cats at once must be very devastating. Just sending some hugs your way.

-- Contributed by: LoriSoard

That was a lovely article Kelly.

My lovely little 9 yr old cat is dying from a tumour at the point where the windpipe meets the stomach pipe. She only got diagnosed by x-ray, the previous vet gave her horrible meds for lungworms which was not the problem.

Anyway, she is eating and drinking less and the biggest challenge everyday is to give her anti-biotic and steroids. A tip not commonly known is to grind the tablets into powder, mix a tiny bit of marge; enough to bind the mix, and then standing behind you cat, spread with your index finger on one little area of her lower paw. That way you will not scratch the tumour with a hard tablet as it is swallowed.

Anyway, this is a good alternative for cats who would be panicked if you tried to put a tablet in their mouth. There is an old wives, or should I say old manafacturs tale, that you can add the meds to the cats food but no cat of mine has ever touched food with meds on it!

Not medicating with anti-bio soon leads to secondary infections which can be painful and she seems to not mind the noroclav too much. Shes not keen on the steroid and I only give her quarter the amount precribed. It gets her going and gives her a bit of energy.

My experience of her sister being put down was one of violence, and the terror and stress caused by going to the vets surgery (which is often a stinking, frightening place)to have her put down is something I really do not want to repeat.

If the cat is not eating or drinking that can be a blessing at the end. I would rather my little girl die from general weakness and coma than not being able to breathe when otherwise strong.

Its a time to be with your ... as your company will comfort, but you have to make sacrifices and keep the home quiet; perhaps play some easy jazz low if you feel he or she has been lying long and could do with stimulation.

try not to lift or move him or her unless you have to, and learn to listen to his or her wishes whenever possible. Make a bed in you bedroom and put the litter there at night along with a saucer of drink and finely chopped up catfood; they will often eat or drink while you are sleeping.

If you are able like Melba, (post above) do sleep with her. I am too restless sadly and I cant do it without disturbing her but it is really comforting for your puss if you can do that; easier for young people to do.

And if you are a believer then pray, create a peaceful harmonious, supportive environment and take time off work or studies to care for her at the end.

If my cat is really suffering great pain or distress at that time then I may call a vet out to the house to give her an injection to 'put her to sleep' but it will have to be the right vet so it end as peacefully as poss. But I agree with Kelly that it is better for her to go naturally, it is better to die in discomfort than fear.

And so to anyone out there in the same situation I wish you well in this time, give your ... all your love and attention.

-- Contributed by: sara

I just lost three cats to this, I wasn't sure what it was and I suspected poisoning. It sounds like she has Feline Distemper. If she hasn't passed already than I would say get her to the vet, or let her go at peace.

You must get your other cat to the vet to get a shot, the virus will live inside of your home for up to a year.

I'm sorry for your loss.

-- Contributed by: Kayella

Hi Lauren,

Anytime a cat isn't eating or drinking, it can become a dangerous situation. Also, they are much more sensitive to toxins than humans are, so if she has gotten into any human medication or other toxins in your home, that could be the culprit.

You mentioned that you're feeding her pureed food. There were some issues with pet food recalls a while back. You may want to double check and make sure you didn't have an old can hiding in your pantry or such. You can read more about the brands thought to be tainted in our article on the Iams Cat Food Recall. There were other brands tainted as well.

I would definitely take her back to the vet or perhaps get a second opinion from another vet. The vet may need to run some additional tests and blood work to rule out anything more serious. Please check back and let us know if she is okay.

-- Contributed by: LoriSoard

My 3 year old spayed female cat and she lives indoors with a male, neutered. About a week ago, she began to act very strange (she has had a history of ear infections,) so we administered the antibiotic given to us by her last visit to the vet because we thought she had another infection (she acts sick when she has them, and hides.) But when she didn't start to get better as she normally did, we got worried. We took her to the vet and he said that she has nothing wrong with her (no fever or anything.) Last night, her symptoms got worse. We have been feeding her pureed cat food and water because she will not eat or drink by herself.

Her symptoms are as follows:

She cannot walk without falling over. She seems alert and can hold her head up and look around, but her head has been wobbling slightly. She won't eat or drink. She keeps trying to hide and hates to leave her cat bed.

What can we do?

-- Contributed by: Lauren

Hi Melba,

You know your cat better than anyone and it sounds like you already sense that she may have some sort of illness. The fact that she had an accident on the floor, when she's never done this before, would be of concern to me.

Just to be on the safe side, I'd probably go ahead and try to get a vet's appointment this week. It wouldn't hurt to have her checked out. It could be as minor as an infection or an allergy to her food, but it could be something more serious such as a bladder infection.

-- Contributed by: LoriSoard

For the last 3 days my 11 yr old cat has acted very different. Actually this all seem to start with her not liking the smell of a new fabric softener. (so I rewashed everything) She will not sleep with me anymore and seems a little disoriented. She is eating but usually she jumps on the table and I carry her to her food. She is not doing this. She will not jump on the bed, but seems to walk fine, although slower. I am very close to this animal and rarely has a night gone by that she does not sleep in my arms. She has no fever. She is current on immunizations but honestly she is a one person cat and a trip to the vet is a major trauma for her. So I am watching and waiting. She is urinating and defecating although she went on the floor and has never done this. I took the lid off her litter box and put her in it and she went and seem to get out fine. Her little face tells me she does not feel well. At present she is sleeping but this not unusual at this time of day. I wish she could tell me. Does this sound like anything?

-- Contributed by: Melba

Hi, Catherine,

I'm sorry your cat is sick. There really isn't anything you can humanely do at home for him. If you feel he is suffering, the best thing you can do is take him to the veterinarian and have him humanely euthanized. If you take the body back home and bury him yourself, it will be fairly inexpensive to have the vet administer this shot. Although it is tempting to not watch as the vet gives your cat a shot to put him to sleep, it is actually very comforting to the pet to have you talk soothingly to him as he gently drifts to sleep.

I'm sending some hugs your way. This is never easy, no matter the age of the cat.

-- Contributed by: LoriSoard

My cat is definitely dying, I want to self-assist his dying, he is hurting. How may I do this? How can I release him and not cause him more discomfort.

-- Contributed by: Catherine

Hi, Kelly,

I'm so sorry to hear that your cat was showing some of these symptoms. Cats often do go to a dark quiet place and hide when ill. Twenty-five is old for a cat and the smelly urine is something I'd be concerned about. However, she may have also wandered away and is having a hard time finding her way home. I would continue the search for her, because if she is ill she may need veterinary treatment. I would also put some flyers in your neighbor's newspaper boxes to let them know you are searching for her.

Please check back and let us know how it turns out.

Good luck.

-- Contributed by: LoriSoard

Hi, Hope,

I'm so very sorry for your loss. I'm glad that the site helped a little and that your cat did not suffer for an extended period. Nineteen years is a long life for a cat, so it is a testimony to the excellent care and love he received.

-- Contributed by: LoriSoard

Hi, Gail,

I'm so glad that you're able to be by Bayeza's side as he goes through his last days. Our cats are such a comfort to us at so many times. It is only fair that we be a comfort for them at the end. I'm very sorry that your cat is failing. I just wanted to send some hugs your way and let you know that you and Bayeza are in my thoughts.

-- Contributed by: LoriSoard

My cat is 25years old. She started drinking lots of water last week, and her urine started really smelling. Saturday night we came home and she was no where to be found. She always came in and out of the house but never wounder away. Do you think she went off to die alone and not around us? We have looked all around the house and in the house nothing. Please help me, i have never lost a pet this way before.

-- Contributed by: kelly

The information on this site helped me to understand that my cat was indeed dying. He passed away tonight, less than an hour ago, after 19 years of a relatively healthy life. I just wanted to thank you and express my appreciation for the information you provided.

-- Contributed by: Hope

Thanks for being here for me and Bayeza. I have been watching Bayeaza fail for 4 days now. Today, Sunday, he seems to many of the signs in this web entry. I did a search for something and found your words right away. I am going back to sit with Bayeza agian. I have him with covers and some plastic under him. I remembered that the cats lose all their fluids when hey die. My cat is crying periodically and I hope he is not in pain. He did vomit up something that looked like old blood this noon. I hope he last the night, but if he does not then I am ready. Thanks for being here. Gail

-- Contributed by: Gail Woodbury

Hi, Bill,

I'm glad the article was of help to you.

-- Contributed by: LoriSoard

thank you

-- Contributed by: bill

Hi, Pam,

I'm glad that it helped you. Please let us know if we can do anything else. I have an older cat in my family as well. She's fifteen now.

-- Contributed by: LoriSoard

This article has answered everything I need to know. Thank you

-- Contributed by: Pam

Thank You for the info really helped me out.