Having to put your beloved cat to sleep is a distressing time, without having to worry about cost – especially if money is a concern. Be prepared by finding out cat euthanasia costs in advance.
In this guide we will share our knowledge (over 10 years of working in the Veterinary Industry), on the estimated prices involved during this upsetting time.
For reference, euthanasia is also referred to as ‘putting to sleep’ or at times ‘letting them go’ – it is important you are clear on your intentions as well as understand what your Veterinarian is discussing with you.
You may also find useful: How to tell if a cat is in pain or suffering
Cat Euthanasia Cost: How much does it cost to put a cat to sleep?
The decision of putting your cat to sleep will never be an easy one – it will be heart breaking, but it is important to remember why this choice is needing to be made. Whether your cat is extremely poorly and unlikely to make a recovery or their time on this planet is near the end due to older age or poor quality of life, the decision as a pet owner to euthanise is putting your cat’s welfare first and above your own emotions.
Please never feel like a bad person for coming to your decision, often it is the kindest choice you can make for your cat.
Sadly, there will be a cost involved in this choice, in the UK you the cost of a cat euthanasia will be roughly £80 -150 and the USA around $100-200.
However, the price can change and there maybe further costs involved – below we will try to break this down for you further.
Why may it cost more to put a cat to sleep?
There are various reasons why the above costs may change – the first is because prices vary between Veterinary Practices, especially depending on the area of the country or the state you may reside in. Unfortunately, this is normal and you cannot change this.
This price will also be much more increased than the above if you opt to have the Vet euthanise your cat in your own home. This is an option many owners prefer, especially if you have an easily stressed cat. However, you will need to be prepared to pay a higher fee, as more of the Vet and Nurses’ time is needed. On average, a cat euthanasia at home cost is between £150-£350.
The cost may also increase if your Veterinary Surgeon needs to do further tests, such as X-Rays or blood work, to assist you in your decision to let your cat go. You can ask your Vet to provide an estimate for these costs before they go ahead to ensure they meet your financial requirements.
Can I be with my cat when they are put to sleep?
Yes, the main majority of Veterinary practices allow you to be with your cat when they are euthanised, as well as other members of your family. Although extremely sad, this procedure is generally very peaceful for your beloved cat and is much like them just falling asleep. It is not painful and it is very quick.
After your cat has passed, they may have a big “few breaths” or perhaps empty their bladder – this is a normal procedure during a life passing and the body “letting go”
You do not have to be with your cat while they are put to sleep, it is your decision. If you choose not to be with them, you can put your mind at ease that they will be still be treated with love and respect during the euthanasia and will be looked after by members of staff during and after.
It is not uncommon for owner’s to ask a member of staff to collect some fur or make an ink ‘paw print’ – if you would like this please do ask during your consultation. There should be no additional fee for this and it can be a very comforting keepsake.
Can a Vet refuse to put my cat to sleep?
This is a very difficult and tough question.
Ultimately, the decision is yours as the legal owner of the cat. However, your Vet can disagree with you on your choice, and at times even refuse, if they strongly do not agree with it. A circumstance where these may arise, maybe a young cat which is having behavioural issues due to issues within the home, but rehoming has not be considered an option, for example.
Remember, a Vet is a trained professional who will always put an animal’s welfare first.
If your cat is seriously unwell or their quality in life has declined due to older age, then it is very unlikely a Vet will not agree with your decision.
After your cat has been put to sleep, you will then need to come to the decision on where you would like them to go next.
In the UK, generally the options will be:
- Home burial (by yourself) – in either your garden or at a pet cemetery
- Individual cremation
- General Cremation – This is where your cat’s ashes will be scattered in a garden of remembrance at the crematorium
How much does it cost to cremate a cat?
Every Veterinary Practice in the UK will work with a pet crematorium to assist with taking care of your cat after they have passed.
If you would like to have your cat’s ashes individually returned to you in a casket or a scattering tube, this can be arranged (along with a certificate of proof) – the price of this type of cat cremation is around £150-£200 – in additional to the above euthanasia cost.
If you decide not to have your cat’s ashes returned, they can be scattered in the garden of remembrance at the pet crematorium – the price of this is usually around £75-£100 in additional to the price of cat euthanasia. It is important to know, with this type of cremation your cat’s ashes will be scattered with other pets and they will not have an individual plot you can visit.
There are many ways to remember your cat after they have passed including memorial stones and plaques.
My cat is dying and I have no money – what should I do?
Contact your local vets
They are caring people and they will not want to see your poorly cat suffer. Discuss with them your affordability and see if they can create a payment plan or even just a donation. Most will be willing to help or be able to put you in touch with a charity who can.
Contact a cat charity such as the Cat’s Protection
As a welfare charity, often they will have funds available for this type of situation. It may mean you have to travel further to visit a certain Veterinary Surgery but your cat will still be treated with the same care and respect as they would at your normal Vets.
Talk to family and friends
Many people love animals and will understand the heartache you are going through. They maybe able to lend or give you money to help fund the price of putting your cat to sleep.
Use your pet insurance
If you have pet insurance you maybe able to claim the price of pet euthanasia back on the policy. Be sure to read your policy details or call the company to ask.
However, while many pet insurance companies will cover price of a euthanasia, many will not cover the cost of cremation.
Let your pet pass away naturally
This should be a last resort option after trying all of the above. A natural death is not always as peaceful as many like to hope, and often it can be quite prolonged and distressing for the human’s involved. Therefore we would advise you to try all other options before this one.
Having your cat euthanised and saying goodbye to your beloved friend is a not an easy time. We understand. There is free support available to help you emotionally during this time. We do strongly advise you reach out if you require it and do not feel like you are along.