Companion Animals

Companion Animal Welfare and Feline Palliative Care

Feline palliative care has advanced significantly in 2026, with better pain management and quality of life assessment improving end-of-life welfare.

Key Facts

Cancer is the leading cause of death in cats over 10 years old
Palliative care focuses on quality of life rather than cure for terminal conditions
Feline pain assessment tools enable proactive pain management in palliative care
Home palliative care reduces the stress of frequent veterinary hospitalisation
Quality of life scales help owners make end-of-life decisions with objectivity and compassion

Welfare Considerations

Palliative care transforms the final weeks and months of life for cats with terminal conditions. Proactive symptom management and quality of life monitoring are welfare obligations.

What You Can Do

Discuss palliative care options with your vet when your cat receives a terminal diagnosis
Learn quality of life assessment scales to monitor your cat's welfare objectively
Choose home palliative care where possible to reduce hospitalisation stress