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Should I Stay to the End?
This is a personal
decision. Some owners feel that it is their last
duty to be there. Others prefer not to be present.
Many take a friend or family member with them for
emotional support. Most vets allow you to remain
with your cat during euthanasia if you wish. If he
refuses, ask why and ask for another vet at the
practice to perform the euthanasia with you
present. If you become distressed, this upsets
your cat and make him harder to handle which is
traumatic for all concerned. Your vet understands
that this is a difficult time and will only ask
you to leave if you become so upset that it is
impossible for him to perform the euthanasia. If
you remain calm this reassures your cat and makes
the end very peaceful.
Not all owners wish
to be present and there is no shame in this. Some
people simply cannot stand the sight of
injections. Your vet will allow you to say goodbye
to your cat and leave the consulting room. If you
are taking your cat's body away with you, he will
call you back in afterwards. Your cat will be
treated with as much respect and dignity whether
or not you are present.
If you have
provided a towel or blanket, your vet will
normally wrap or cover your cat's body. Otherwise,
he may place him in a black bag. This is not a
sign of disrespect, it is for hygiene and your own
privacy. A few veterinary practices have a place
where you can sit for a few minutes afterwards and
regain your composure. If you do need a few
moments before you are able to leave the surgery,
tell the veterinary assistant. Alternatively they
may be able to help you back to your car, but bear
in mind that they are unlikely to have the time to
sit with you.
Euthanasia At Home
If you are willing
to pay a call out fee, your vet will euthanize
your cat in your own home. Both you and your cat
may find this less traumatic than waiting at the
vets surgery. However, locating your cat when the
vet arrives may be a problem as he knows the best
hiding places. Many cats have been put to sleep
enjoying a last meal of cream or salmon. In the
case of a home visit where a veterinary nurse is
not available, and the vet does not feel that you
are able to restrain the cat, he may sedate the
cat first and then inject into the kidney or
heart. This is less distressing for all concerned
than trying to restrain an agitated cat.
Do not be surprised
if your vet makes a hasty exit afterwards, he does
not want to intrude upon your grief and he will
have other calls to make.
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