Deciding to euthanize your pet can be one of the most heartbreaking and difficult decisions you ever make. But it’s important to recognize when the time is right to end your pet’s suffering if their quality of life is in decline.
In this fact sheet, we’ll look at what to consider when assessing your pet’s overall quality of life. Taking these factors into consideration will help you when the time comes to have an open discussion about your pet’s future with your veterinarian.
Evaluating Your Pet’s Quality of Life
In order to enjoy a good quality of life, your pet’s basic needs must be met. Here are some areas to look at when evaluating your pet’s overall quality of life:
Eating and Drinking
Pets near the end of their life often lose the ability to eat and drink without pain or discomfort. In some cases, it may be appropriate for your veterinarian to tube feed your pet and administer fluids subcutaneously under their skin. But an inability to eat and drink is a serious factor to consider when evaluating your pet’s overall quality of life.
Bodily Functions
Inability to perform bodily functions such as breathing, urinating, and defecating without pain or discomfort is another clear sign that your pet’s quality of life is in decline. Please ask your veterinarian whether treatment options are available to improve this aspect of your pet’s quality of life.
Mobility
Decreased mobility can lead to a number of issues that adversely affect your pet’s quality of life. Pets that cannot go outside or reach their litter box will need constant care to prevent them from soiling in the house. If your pet is immobile they may also develop health problems including skin infections and bedsores. In some cases, mobility devices may improve your pet’s quality of life. Please speak to your veterinarian to discuss appropriate treatment options for your pet.
General Pain
If pain is an ongoing issue for your pet, it’s important to seek advice from your veterinarian. Please be aware that it may be time to consider compassionate euthanasia if prescribed medications are insufficient for managing your pet’s pain.
Mental Wellbeing
Pain and illness can have a devastating effect on your pet’s mental wellbeing. Signs to look out for include disengagement and decreased interaction with family members. Some pets may also experience severe depression or anxiety. Please speak to your veterinarian if your pet displays symptoms of a decline in their mental wellbeing.
Reaching a Decision About Euthanasia
Your veterinarian will help you decide whether euthanasia is the best option for your pet by discussing all aspects of their health and wellbeing. In some cases, palliative care may be sufficient to control pain, maintain mobility, and improve your pet’s physical and mental wellbeing. Your veterinarian is trained to help you with this difficult decision, so please make an appointment to discuss all options if your pet’s quality of life is in decline.
