Making the decision
- Euthanasia is required when an untreatable disease has progressed to the extent that medication cannot prevent the cat from suffering.
- It can be very difficult to decide when this point is reached. Aspects to consider include
- Is the cat still eating/drinking?
- Does the cat respond to attention from his owners?
- Is the cat in uncontrollable pain?
- Has caring for the cat become difficult - fecal/urinary incontinence?
- It is imperative that the owner does not feel rushed into making the decision, although it may be necessary to point out that an animal is in pain and suffering if the owners are not aware of it.
Print out the Owner factsheet on euthanasia 
to give to your client.
Do not use terms such as "put to sleep" that may be open to misinterpretation. Use the term "euthanasia".
