When a Norwegian Forest Cat is nearing death, several signs often become apparent. These can include a slowed heart rate, shallow breathing, loss of appetite, lethargy, cold extremities, and a tendency to hide.
Recognizing the Signs of Decline
It's crucial to understand the specific indicators that suggest your Norwegian Forest Cat is approaching the end of their life. Early recognition allows for more compassionate care during their final moments.
1. **Slowed Heart Rate:** A cat's normal heart rate ranges from 140 to 220 beats per minute. When a cat is nearing death, their heart rate will significantly decrease, becoming slow and weak.
2. **Shallow Breathing:** As the heart weakens, the lungs become less efficient. This results in increasingly shallow and labored breathing. Eventually, breathing will cease altogether.
3. **Loss of Appetite (Anorexia):** A dying cat will typically lose their appetite and may refuse food or water for extended periods. This lack of nutrition can lead to weight loss, loose skin, sunken eyes, and a generally frail appearance.
4. **Changes in Mental State:** You may observe a change in your cat's mental state, with signs of lethargy, slow responses, extreme discomfort, and overall weakness. They may appear disoriented or confused.
5. **Cold Extremities:** The paws and other extremities may become noticeably cold and slightly stiff. The cat may have difficulty walking or moving around.
6. **Hiding Behavior:** A cat that is sensing the end of their life often seeks seclusion and may hide away in an attempt to find solace and security.
What to Do After Your Cat Passes Away
When your beloved Norwegian Forest Cat has passed away, there are primarily two options for handling their remains. The first is burial, and the second is cremation through a pet cremation service.
Home Burial
If you choose home burial, select a spot that is away from water sources and living areas. The hole should be approximately 0.4 to 0.6 meters deep. If your cat succumbed to a contagious illness, it’s advisable to sprinkle the burial site with quicklime. You should also thoroughly disinfect your home and avoid introducing new pets for at least six months.
Pet Cremation
Another option is to use a professional pet cremation service. While this does involve a cremation fee, it allows you to receive your cat’s ashes, which can be kept as a memorial. You can also have the ashes made into keepsake items, or incorporate them into a tree planting, allowing their memory to live on in a beautiful and meaningful way.