IN HOME
Euthanasia for Cats
When you need help saying goodbye to your beloved cat, we are here to provide empathetic and compassionate care.
Our doctors (Dr. Heather Dillon and Dr. Louise Mesher) each have more than 25 years of experience and have been honored to help families in their homes for many years.
Our practice focuses on cats, and we are well-versed in the often small things that can make a big difference in their comfort.
Compassionate
In-Home Euthanasia
We know this is a difficult and painful time, and we make every effort to help you and your treasured companion with respect and care. Our processes are thoughtful and tailored to your family’s and your cat’s needs. Performing euthanasia in a cat’s own home – be it on their favorite bed, in your arms, or in a sunny catio – allows for the most peaceful transition possible. The minimization of stress – your kitty’s, and yours – is of the utmost importance. You know what your cat prefers, and we strive to accommodate that.
Making a Decision about Pet Euthanasia
Saying goodbye is one of the hardest decisions you’ll ever make. You want to honor your cat with the right timing, neither rushed nor delayed. Whether the need feels clear or you’re still uncertain, we can help you assess comfort, discuss options, and find the most compassionate path forward.
Knowing When It’s the “Right” Time
There isn’t one perfect answer. Look at your cat’s comfort today, the likelihood of meaningful improvement, and what your family considers kind and appropriate, especially when several concerns are happening at once.
Considerations
for In‑Home Euthanasia
- Comfort and suffering: First and foremost, is your pet’s quality of life. Pain, breathing distress, or ongoing suffering with little hope of quick relief may mean the decision to euthanize may be more urgent.
- The present moment: Cats experience life “right now,” not in the future. Imagine how your cat is feeling today. They do not think about feeling better in the future, nor do they mark milestones or look forward to future events.
- Recovery outlook: Age and medical realities can affect the likelihood of a comfortable, lasting improvement. What is the reasonable expectation that they may have a better quality of life for a significant period once they recover (if possible) from their illness or injury?
- Your lived experience: What you’ve learned from prior pet loss or hospice care can guide what feels most merciful. Although previous situations are not likely to have been precisely the same as this one, there may have been lessons that you can draw on now.
- “Natural death” questions: Hoping for a peaceful passing during sleep is understandable, but it’s uncommon with serious illness. In many cases, euthanasia is the gentlest way to prevent suffering. If you feel strongly about a natural death, we can discuss what that could look like and how to keep your cat comfortable.
Gathering
Information
Every family and situation is different, but you may want to consider the following steps:
Talk with your veterinarian; a second opinion can help you feel more confident.
Learn about the process, timing, and location. It may never feel easy—but it can feel like the right, loving choice.
Call 503-281-1631 or complete our inquiry form whenever you’re ready. We welcome early questions and will help you navigate each step with care.