End-of-life welfare decisions in cats require objective quality of life assessment and compassionate euthanasia timing to prevent unnecessary suffering.
End-of-life welfare decisions for cats are among the most difficult in companion animal care. The challenge is balanced between acting too soon and preventing the opportunity for additional good days, and waiting too long while the cat experiences unnecessary suffering. Objective quality of life assessment tools help owners maintain perspective when emotional attachment might otherwise cloud judgment. Palliative care including pain management, appetite support, and gentle nursing can extend quality time. Euthanasia at home reduces the stress of final veterinary visits for many cats. The welfare-focused approach prioritises the animals experience over owner readiness.