7 Things You Must Do When Your Cat Is Nearing the End of Its Life

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1. Creatures Comforting

Comfort becomes everything at this stage of life. Older cats are more attracted to warmth. Give them an electric heating pad or bed to soothe sore joints and keep them cozy.

If walking is a problem, place rugs or non-slip pet rugs on slippery surfaces to make it easier for them to move around safely.

Adding pet stairs or ramps to help them reach their favorite window perch or spot on the couch will be appreciated.

Provide a small litter box for easy access, and consider placing multiple boxes in places your cat frequents. The goal is to minimize effort and maximize comfort.

Being proactive in pain management is one of the greatest gifts you can give your cat.

2. Understand Their Pain, Even If They Hide It

Cats are experts at hiding pain. Just because they are quiet, shrill, or loud doesn’t mean they are comfortable. Talk to your vet about early pain management options, especially if your cat has a chronic pain condition, such as arthritis or chronic kidney disease. Another good way is to research grieving or hospice vets, many of whom do home visits and can help guide you through this stage with compassion and honesty.

Traveling vets are great for all cats, especially those who experience stress during car rides or vet visits. Some also offer other treatments such as acupuncture, laser therapy, and other holistic methods designed to improve your cat’s comfort and quality of life. Being proactive in pain management is one of the greatest gifts you can give your cat.

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3. Create a Cozy Sanctuary

Unlike dogs, many cats prefer to be alone when they feel unwell. Support their instincts by creating a quiet, hidden space. A warm den bed in their favorite hiding place, a box loaded with fleece blankets—wherever they like to retreat to, make that space cozy, warm, and special. Place food, water, and a litter box nearby so they don’t have to walk far. If you give them wet food, give them breakfast in bed and create their own little space where they can rest and recharge on their own terms.

4. Prepare for a Peaceful Farewell

This is the time to make a plan, not just for their peace, but for yours. It can help reduce panic during stressful times and allow space to think clearly. You can track your cat’s daily life using a Quality of Life scale available online or through your veterinarian. Keep a journal to see shifts and patterns, and monitor good and bad days. Share this information with your veterinarian before a problem arises.

Many families find comfort in having a traveling veterinarian help their pet transition peacefully through home euthanasia. This way, your cat can be in a familiar and safe place, curled up in his favorite bed, or basking in the sun in your garden. Having a plan—and a list of mobile vets, emergency vet hospitals, and animal clinics for reference—reduces last-minute panic and ensures a calm, loving goodbye when the time comes.

5. Capture special moments

Ask a friend or loved one to capture important photos and videos of you and your cat or have your own DIY photoshoot at home. Record all the things you love about your cat, like their toes or their unique voice. These will be great memories to cherish in the future.

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6. Spoil Them Daily

Now is the time to pull out all the stops. Spoil yourself with something special every day. Do they like roast chicken? Serve them that for dinner! A spoonful of tuna? Yes, please. Extract catnip or silvervine and sprinkle liberally on a rug or blanket. Let them roll and feel the joy. Place bird feeders outside their favorite windows. Turn on Cat TV on YouTube or bring them a new or favorite toy. Let them enjoy these sins—this is about quality of life, not strict procedures.

“Hold them, kiss them, and tell them how deeply they are loved. These quiet, meaningful moments are a gift to both of you. They feel your love. I promise.”

7. Be Present and Reasonable

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Anticipated grief at this time is normal. The heartache you feel is knowing that your time together is limited, even if your cat is still by your side. Be kind to yourself. If you feel like it’s too much, take a moment and take a deep breath. Going outside can also be basic. After taking the time to do this, set the intention to be fully present with your cat. Blow them, hug them, and tell them how deeply they are loved. These quiet, meaningful moments are a gift to both of you. They feel your love. I promise you.