5 Subtle Signs It’s Time to Say Goodbye to Your Cat

Wondering when to say goodbye to your cat? Learn 5 gentle signs your cat may be suffering and how in-home euthanasia brings peace and dignity to their final moments.

Cats rarely complain. They shift quietly into discomfort, hiding their pain behind soft purrs and sleepy gazes. This makes knowing when to say goodbye to your cat incredibly difficult. You might wonder if they’re just slowing down with age or if something more serious is happening. From Perth to Sydney, families turn to The Kindest Goodbye for guidance and gentle in-home euthanasia when love means making the hardest decision.

1. Eating Less or Not at All
A cat who once ran to their bowl now barely sniffs their food. A sudden or gradual loss of appetite is often one of the first signs of illness or pain. You might notice untouched food, sniffing and walking away, or only licking the gravy from wet meals. This shift is more than just picky behaviour, it can signal discomfort, nausea, or deeper underlying health issues like kidney disease, dental pain, or emotional distress. If mealtimes have become rare or stressful, it may be time to assess your cat’s overall well-being with gentle support from a trusted vet.

2. Hiding or Avoiding You
Even affectionate cats may begin to withdraw when they are in pain or distress. If your once cuddly companion starts hiding under beds, behind furniture, or in closets, this behavior could reflect more than just a desire for quiet. Cats instinctively seek out secluded spots when they are unwell, as a form of self-protection. It can also signal fear, confusion, or cognitive decline. This emotional and physical retreat is their way of coping with discomfort. If your cat is spending more time in isolation and avoiding touch, it may be their way of telling you something is wrong. Pay attention to these subtle changes, they are often a call for help.

3. Unkempt Fur or Less Grooming
Cats are known for their meticulous grooming habits. If your cat’s coat appears dull, greasy, tangled, or dirty, it could be a sign they are no longer able to care for themselves properly. This change often points to physical pain, fatigue, or underlying illness. According to Cats.com, a sudden stop in grooming is often one of the earliest indicators that your cat is not feeling well and may need medical attention or compassionate end-of-life care.

4. Mobility Issues or Lethargy
Notice whether your cat is reluctant to jump, seems stiff, or spends most of the day sleeping. If they are no longer interested in playing, exploring, or greeting you like before, this reduced activity may indicate discomfort or pain. Changes in mobility often go unnoticed at first, so keep track of any gradual shifts in how your cat moves or behaves throughout the day.

5. Changes in Mood or Behaviour
If your cat has become unusually vocal, irritable, withdrawn, or confused, this could reflect deeper issues such as cognitive decline or ongoing pain. These emotional shifts are often how cats express distress. If your cat’s personality seems different or unsettling, it may be time to look deeper and speak with a compassionate veterinarian who understands feline end-of-life care.

Why In-Home Farewells Matter
Saying goodbye in a calm and familiar space offers a peaceful and dignified end for your cat. At home, there are no unfamiliar smells, loud noises, or sterile exam tables. Instead, your cat can rest in a place filled with love, comfort, and safety. Being surrounded by the people they love most allows your cat’s final memory to be one of warmth and trust. It is a gift of peace, both for them and for you.

Support from People Who Understand
The experienced team at The Kindest Goodbye provides clear, caring advice without pressure. They know this decision is

 never easy and work closely with you to honour your cat’s comfort and dignity.

More to Read:

• Change, loss and bereavement – Mental Health Foundation

• Pet Bereavement – Coping with Pet Loss – RSPCA

Ready to Talk?
If you are beginning to wonder whether it might be time, that alone is a sign to reach out. Visit The Kindest Goodbye to speak with a compassionate vet and take the next step with confidence and care.