What Happens When A Cat Dies Naturally? 5 Signs You Need To Know

As a devoted cat owner, thinking about your feline friend’s mortality can be incredibly painful. However, understanding the natural dying process in cats allows you to spot signs that the end is near and provide your pet with loving palliative care.

In this article, we’ll cover what happens when cats die naturally, clues death is approaching, ways to comfort a dying cat, and how to cope with the loss. Knowing what to expect can help you deal with this difficult time and give your cat a peaceful passing. Let’s get started.

What Natural Causes Do Cats Die From?

Cats can pass away naturally from a variety of age-related diseases, including:

• Heart disease - Leading natural cause of death. Heart failure is common in older cats.

• Cancer - Very prevalent in senior cats. Lymphoma, mammary tumors, and skin cancer are common forms.

• Kidney disease - Kidneys weaken with age, causing failure.

• Liver disease - Can occur from cancer, infections, or toxins.

• Diabetes - More common in overweight/obese cats. Leads to complications.

• Hyperthyroidism - Overactive thyroid gland. Accelerates metabolism.

• Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) - Weakens immune system over time.

• Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) - Also impairs the immune system.

In many cases, elderly cats pass away due to multiple co-existing conditions that ultimately overwhelm the body. Next, let’s go over signs your cat may be nearing the end stages of its life.

5 Signs Your Cat Is Dying

Look for these indicators that a natural death may be approaching:

1. Inappetence

Loss of appetite is very common. The dying cat loses interest in food and drink. Force-feeding is not recommended - let your cat eat as desired.

2. Extreme lethargy

Your cat will sleep more and become very inactive. It may struggle to get up or move to the litter box. Loss of interest in toys, play, and people can also occur.

3. Seeking isolation

Some dying cats prefer to be alone. Respect this by providing a quiet, comfortable resting space if your cat stops wanting lap time and petting.

4. Poor grooming

With declining mobility and energy, your cat may stop grooming. Long-haired cats may get matted from lack of cleaning. Gently brush your cat if possible.

5. Low body temperature

Check your cat’s ears - as death nears, you may notice they feel cooler to the touch indicating a dropping body temperature.

If your senior cat is displaying multiple symptoms, notify your vet to discuss provision of palliative care for your pet.

What to Do When Your Cat Dies?

When your cat passes:

• Place the body on a disposable towel or absorbent pad due to release of bodily fluids.

• Contact your veterinarian to discuss aftercare options including burial, cremation, memorial paw print kits, etc.

• Alert family members so they can say goodbye before final disposal of the body.

• Prepare a box with the pet’s name for transportation to the vet clinic or pet cemetery. Line it with a towel and consider including a favorite toy or bed.

• Refrigerate the deceased cat if not burying or cremating the same day. Do not freeze.

• Remove food, water bowls, litter box, and beds until ready for a new cat to avoid confusion.

• Expect grief and provide each other patience, compassion, and understanding during the mourning period. Share memories and photos.

Take your time to grieve in the way that feels right to you. There’s no “correct” timeframe - your pet was a family member. With time, fond memories carry you forward.

Common Natural Death Causes in Cats

While the above diseases lead to natural death in many cats, certain preventative measures can prolong your cat’s life significantly.

Discuss the following with your vet:

• Annual exams & bloodwork - Screens for early organ disease. Treat conditions promptly.

• Dental care - Helps prevent kidney/liver/heart disease from mouth bacteria.

• Parasite prevention - Protects against fatal parasites like heartworm.

• Vaccinations - Defends against viruses like rabies, FeLV, and panleukopenia.

• Prescription diets - Tailored nutrition for illnesses like diabetes and kidney disease.

• Exercise and play - Keeps mind and body stimulated. Maintains healthy weight.

• Stress reduction - Limit changes/disruptions. Use calming aids like Feliway.

While you can’t prevent natural death, excellent care gives your cat the best shot at a long, full life!

How to Comfort a Dying Cat

If your cat is diagnosed with a terminal illness, focus on maximizing comfort:

• Pain medication - Discuss options with your vet like steroids, opioids, and NSAIDs.

• Soft bedding - Use thick padded beds to cushion aged joints. Wash bedding frequently.

• Litter box access - Place boxes in easy-access areas. Clean often to limit smells.

• Calm environment - Keep the volume down and activity level minimal. Restrict kids and dogs.

• Maintain routines - Stick close to your cat’s normal schedule and care.

• Appetite stimulants - Ask your vet about options to encourage eating.

• Warmth - Keep your home at a comfortable temperature for an elderly cat.

Prioritize your cat’s comfort and ability to engage in normal activities. Euthanasia can be an act of kindness when your cat’s quality of life declines.

How to Cope with the Death of a Pet Cat

The loss of a beloved cat is absolutely devastating. While the grief process is unique for everyone, these tips may help:

• Take time off - Don’t feel guilty about missing work or social engagements as you grieve.

• Create a memorial - Make a photo book, frame pictures, or plant a garden in your cat’s memory.

• Talk about your feelings - Don’t isolate yourself. Reach out to family/friends or join a pet loss support group.

• Consider a new pet - When you’re ready, adopting can help fill the loneliness. Don’t rush into it.

• Take care of yourself - Make sure you eat well, hydrate, and get plenty of rest during mourning.

• Celebrate your cat’s life - Focus on all the joy and fun times you shared. Your cat had a wonderful life thanks to you.

Don’t bottle up emotions - speak with trusted loved ones as you process the loss. Cherish your memories as you heal.