Signs of a Munchkin Cat Approaching Death and What to Do After

Munchkin cats, like all living beings, will eventually reach the end of their lives. When a Munchkin cat is nearing death, several signs may become apparent. These often include a slowed heart rate, shallow breathing, loss of appetite, lethargy, cold extremities, and a tendency to hide.

1. Slowed Heart Rate: A cat's normal heart rate ranges from 140 to 220 beats per minute. As a cat nears death, its heart rate will drastically decrease.

2. Shallow Breathing: In the final stages, a cat's heart weakens, and the lungs become less efficient. This results in increasingly shallow and slow breathing, eventually ceasing altogether.

3. Loss of Appetite or Anorexia: A dying cat will often lose its appetite or refuse to eat for extended periods. This decline in eating leads to weight loss, loose skin, sunken eyes, and a generally weakened appearance.

4. Poor Mental State: A cat nearing death may exhibit signs of disorientation, slow responses, extreme pain, or overall weakness.

5. Cold Extremities: The paws and other extremities of a dying cat will often feel cold and slightly stiff, and the cat may have difficulty walking.

6. Hiding: A cat that is nearing the end of its life may frequently hide away, not wanting to be found. This is often a sign that they are aware their body is failing.

What To Do After a Cat Dies

There are primarily two ways to handle a cat's remains after death. The first is burial at home. If you choose this method, find an appropriate outdoor location and dig a hole about 0.4 to 0.6 meters deep. Ensure the burial site is far from any water sources or living areas. If the cat died from a contagious disease, it is recommended to spread quicklime in the hole before burying the body, as well as to thoroughly disinfect the home. It's also best to wait at least six months before getting a new cat or other pet.

The second option is to take the cat to a pet cremation service. This usually involves a fee, but it allows you to keep the ashes as a memento. Alternatively, the ashes can be incorporated into jewelry or planted with a tree as a way to continue the cat’s legacy.

Related resource:Pet Training