As we know, cats live for an average of 15 years. But when they reach the end of their life, these concealment aces do everything they can to make their weaknesses invisible.
In fact, in the wild, cats never show any symptoms of illness or weakness so as not to alert potential predators to their state of health. So, it can be difficult to determine if your cat is going to die soon.
However, it is essential to know the cat dying signs in order to be able to offer your faithful companion an end of life worthy of the name.
1. A Change in the Cat’s Breathing
A change in the cat’s breathing signals that his body is breaking down. As with humans, the blood vessels inside the body get more clogged and the body’s ability to oxygenate itself gets thinner and thinner.
This means that the cat can barely breathe. An animal that can no longer breathe normally is in deep, deep trouble.
If your cat has lost his ability to breathe, there is little chance he will recover. In extreme cases, cats who can no longer breathe may stop eating and eventually starve themselves to death.
You also may notice a change in your cat’s voice. It is similar to how people who are in the beginning stages of Alzheimer’s sound to those of people who have the disease. A change in a cat’s voice signifies that its mind and thoughts are also in trouble.
2. Your Cat Isolates Himself
It’s instinctive: When a cat knows he is going to die, he seeks to isolate himself so that his body is not within the reach of predators.
But, while most cats seek seclusion, some prefer to increase the frequency of contact with their humans, as if they wanted to enjoy the last moments with them.
So if your cat is snuggling up to you and sticking to you like his life depends on it, that’s because it might be.
3. Your Cat No Longer Eats
Not eating often indicates a health problem in the animal. Sometimes it’s just a digestive problem. But if your cat is old and has several worrying signs, this loss of appetite should not be taken lightly.
4. The Cat No Longer Defecates in the Litter
As your cat ages, so do their different organs! The bladder and kidneys begin to function less well. Your hairball may have trouble holding back and getting to his litter box to relieve itself.
5. The Cat Is Finding it More and More Difficult to Move Around
In old cats, the impending death manifests itself through reduced motor skills. Indeed, the tired and weakened bones of the feline can no longer support certain movements, which are now painful.
Thus, the tomcat loses this liveliness which once gave him a great look. You may notice that he is still lying down and can no longer get up or even walk. It becomes impossible for him to frolic on the table or the chair, or even to escape through the window.
A diificulty to move around is one of the cat dying signs – Photo by dschreckenbach from Pixabay
6. Lack of Interest in Food and Water
It is normal for cats to lose weight when they get older. But if it is happening to more than half of your cat’s diet, it might mean there is a problem. As they age, many cats will also be less interested in food. This is when a sudden change in appetite and body weight is considered a serious problem.
Cats can become dehydrated and starve themselves. This is why you should always offer your cat water several times a day. If your cat has not touched his water dish in a few days, consider a diet change.
7. The Cat’s Heart Beats Less and Less Quickly
Difficult breathing in dying cats is due to their heart beating less and more quickly, and no longer pumping enough oxygenated blood. The heart rate drops dramatically and there are many fewer beats than the normal 140 to 220 beats per minute.
This factor is particularly not easy to detect. This is why you should measure your cat’s heart rate regularly. Place it on its left side, put your hand under its foreleg, and carefully count the number of beats over 15, 30, or 60 seconds.
8. The Cat No Longer Cleans Himself
As you know, the cat is a very clean animal. So if you notice any poor hygiene in your little hairball, it is likely that it is sick or worse yet, dying. In the case of a simple illness, it is a fleeting behavior.
But when death is near, the feline is aware of this, and no longer sees the point in dressing up. He only licks himself exceptionally: he’s always dirty and that doesn’t bother him.
9. The Cat’s Body Temperature Drops
A cat’s normal temperature is between 100 and 102 ° F. If your cat’s temperature drops below 100 ° F, it is a sign that something abnormal is happening…
To take your cat’s temperature, insert a thermometer into his rectum for two to three minutes. If necessary, add a little petroleum jelly.
10. The Cat Has Incomprehensible Mood Swings
Behavioral problems and mood swings are also avenues that allow you to recognize that your cat is dying. Your feline can become restless, irritated and suddenly aggressive, even towards his owner. He scratches you if you touch him and can sometimes refuse your hugs.
Also, if he was usually talkative, a dying cat may become too calm or much more talkative than usual. His incessant, repetitive meows are slower and longer than usual.
11. The Cat Has a Dull Coat and in Poor Condition
For cat owners, the condition of the cat’s coat is a great way to judge his health. A healthy cat with always soft, shiny hair, even with minimal maintenance.
But when sick, the cat has a frizzy and dirty coat, hard and brittle, and in serious cases such as imminent death, there is hair loss.
12. Unusual Body Odor
When your cat’s internal tissues begin to deteriorate, this process releases toxins, which cause unusual body odors.
The odor varies depending on the cat’s condition. For example, cats with kidney problems may develop an ammonia-like odor.
Cat Dying Signs: Conclusion
Cats are mysterious animals. We may never know for sure if a cat is dying, so it’s best to ask your vet for the definitive diagnosis. The best thing you can do to help your cat is to provide him with the care he needs and respect his wishes.
I hope this article has been helpful in detecting the major signs that your cat is dying. Feel free to leave me a little comment so I can know what you thought of this article. See you soon!