For many animal lovers, a cat is a full member of the family. And, naturally, every owner wants his pet to live as long as possible, to be healthy and active. But animals do not always live to a ripe old age and die quietly without suffering. It happens that a pet becomes seriously ill, suffers from pain and cannot be cured. In this case, most veterinarians advise euthanasia. Therefore, this article will discuss the following pressing issues: how to euthanize cats at home, how does this process take place in a veterinary clinic, and how much does euthanasia cost? You can read the article “The most common cat diseases: symptoms and treatment.”
Cat grooming in Rostov-on-Don
The veterinary clinic "Doctor-Vet" provides services in Rostov-on-Don at a competitive price.
Cat's haircut "Dragon"
Cats are wayward animals and not every owner can trim them on their own. Therefore, it is easier to contact a specialist who has experience in this matter and can perform the service efficiently. As a rule, cats are cut for hygiene reasons, because animals are not able to care for their fur on their own. Especially when it comes to long-haired breeds. Grooming allows you to combat problems such as tangles and tangled hair. If the mats are not cut off, they cause a lot of inconvenience to the pet and can even lead to illness. Haircuts are also very relevant in the summer, when mustaches suffer from the heat.
Calling a groomer to your home will be an excellent solution for owners who do not have time to take their pet to a cat “beauty salon” and wait for it to be cleaned up.
So, the Doctor-Vet veterinary service provides the following types of services at home:
- Hygienic haircuts. This procedure is not performed for beauty, it is rather a necessity. As a rule, a hygienic haircut is aimed at removing tangles and tangled hair or combating skin diseases (fleas, dermatitis, etc.). Hygienic grooming is also recommended for animals in old age, when they cannot care for themselves. The hygienic haircut is called “Lion”, since after it the cat becomes like a lion (the fur remains only on the head). The Leo haircut is also considered a model haircut. It is very common today.
- Creative. Their main goal is to improve the appearance of the pet or to realize the owner’s fantasy. A creative haircut takes into account all the advantages and disadvantages of a pet and reflects its individuality. There are a great many options for creative haircuts. It all depends on the skill of the groomer, the characteristics of the animal and the imagination of the owner.
- Brushing cats. Combing involves removing shedding hair using professional, and most importantly, safe tools. The coat is not cut, but its volume is significantly reduced, and the appearance becomes more well-groomed and healthy. Special attention must be paid to removing tangles. Sometimes they do not need to be cut, but simply combed with a brush.
- The washing up. Washing a cat can be either a separate procedure or performed simultaneously with haircut and combing. Washing is not the easiest procedure, since cats do not like water and are afraid of it, and therefore it is not always easy for the owner to bathe his pet on his own. Our specialists will help you in this difficult matter. You will save time and nerves by inviting a groomer to your home.
It is advisable to groom cats 1-3 times a year. Of course, everything is individual and depends not only on the breed, but also on the animal’s body (how quickly the fur grows, what is the degree of thickness of the fur, etc.).
Since the climate in Rostov-on-Don is quite hot and in the summer the temperature can rise to 40 degrees, we recommend cutting your hair before the heat sets in. This will reduce the animal's discomfort to a minimum.
Before the procedure, it is recommended to trim the cat’s claws so that it does not injure the owner’s master during and after the procedure.
Reasons for euthanasia
Don’t think that putting a suffering animal to sleep is a crime. No more humane methods of helping hopeless patients have been invented. There are several basic reasons why doctors decide to euthanize a cat.
Euthanasia of a cat
Rabies
A dangerous viral pathology that threatens the life of not only the animal, but also its owner.
It is impossible to cure rabies - after pathogens enter the bloodstream, they quickly multiply, the pet loses clarity of consciousness and begins to attack people close to it. If the bite is successful, the owner will face the same fate: a long and painful death from dehydration and damage to the nervous system.
Important! When a diagnosis of rabies is made, the domestic cat must be euthanized. The veterinary hospital does not provide treatment due to the high risk of infection of medical personnel.
Oncology
Malignant neoplasms quickly increase in size, gradually spreading throughout the body through metastasis. Advanced forms of therapy are not subject to treatment - in other cases, the cat is prescribed surgical excision of the tumor.
For older cats or those with terminal cancer, euthanasia is recommended. Attempts to cure a pet are useless - veterinarians do not advise prolonging the death throes of a furry pet.
Important! An animal can be euthanized only with the consent of the owner - the veterinary hospital does not have the right to carry out the procedure without filling out the appropriate documents.
Injuries incompatible with life
Complex fractures and ruptures of internal organs are almost impossible to restore. For some time, observation tactics are established for the furry patient - some animals manage to survive even after being hit by a heavy truck.
If no improvement is observed, the veterinarian issues a conclusion that the injuries caused by a fall or collision are incompatible with life. Medical killing is the best way to stop the prolonged agony and stop tormenting your pet.
Making a final diagnosis
Respiratory failure
The pathological condition is divided into four large subgroups:
- Hyperventilation of the lungs or general disturbance of the breathing process. The problem is caused by traumatic brain injuries, hydrothorax (fluid accumulation in the lungs), and strong blows to the chest area. As a result, the cat practically cannot breathe and suffers from pain.
- Trauma and impaired functionality of the lungs themselves are associated with tissue swelling, bronchospasms, and an advanced form of pneumonia (pneumonia).
- Parasitic damage - inflammatory processes in the lung tissues are provoked by the migration of roundworm larvae from the area of the digestive tract.
- Malignant and benign tumors are typical for older cats.
The above pathologies lead to the development of respiratory failure. The animal gradually dies from lack of oxygen and necrosis (death) of brain tissue.
Incurable disease
Diseases that cannot be treated or treated surgically also include:
- stopping the functioning of the digestive and urinary system;
- leptospirosis and infectious peritonitis (inflammation of the abdominal cavity with suppuration);
- inflammatory processes in the spinal cord or its ruptures - as a consequence of previously developed renal failure.
Cat grooming prices
Prices for such services in Rostov-on-Don may vary and often depend on the wishes of the master himself. When contacting the Doctor-Vet veterinary clinic, you can be sure that there will be no surprises regarding the price of a haircut. We announce the cost over the phone and it does not change during the work process! We only employ experienced hairdressers who can cut even the most wayward cat's hair. After the procedure, the specialist will give recommendations for further care and answer all your questions. Groom your cat yourself or seek help from specialists - the decision is yours. The main thing is to provide your pet with timely care for its coat and monitor its health. The price for grooming a cat is 1000 rubles.
Euthanasia at home
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Some owners believe that it is better to carry out the procedure at home so that the animal is less nervous. Almost all veterinary stations provide such services, with a specialist visiting on the agreed day.
The doctor will first get acquainted with the cat's medical history and only then begin to euthanize. The presence of the owner in the room is not necessary - only at his personal request.
Examination by a veterinarian at home
Important! The main problem with the home procedure is the question of the body of the deceased - in the hospital the owner will be offered cremation. Before calling a veterinarian, you can ask whether he provides additional services with the collection of a deceased cat.
How often to cut, including depending on the breed
The frequency of haircuts depends on the rate of hair growth, the age of the cat, and its health. It is recommended to cut your hair 2-3 times a year, not more often.
| Cause | Explanation |
| Hygiene | Long-haired cats get dirty very quickly, their fur rolls into lumps, and when licking, the likelihood of swallowing it is high, which can lead to problems with the digestive tract. |
| Shedding | Reducing the amount of wool on furniture. |
| Skin diseases (infections, parasites, hyperplasia of the sebaceous glands, dermatitis) | With short hair, a cat is easier to handle. |
| Exclusive view | Only for the purpose of participating in exhibitions. |
For Persians, a haircut is an ideal option, especially in the summer, as they quickly grow overgrown, and they also do not like heat.
What breeds of cats are prohibited from being cut?
- Shorthair (British, Scottish Fold). There is no particular point, only when absolutely necessary. Please note that there are long-haired types of these cats, namely British Longhair and Highland Fold, they need to be cut.
- With tipping or color-point color. After a haircut, the pet's color changes (becomes darker).
- Semi-long-haired breeds (Siberian and Norwegian forest cats, Maine Coon) do not need a haircut; you can only limit yourself to bathing and thorough combing. Their fur serves as an excellent protector from overheating and freezing. Also read how to properly bathe a cat and how to brush it on the Mister Cat portal.
In addition, you should not generally trim hyperactive pets, which are difficult to pacify and require the use of sedatives, which have a negative effect later.
Cost of euthanasia in a veterinary clinic
How much does it cost to euthanize a sick cat? Price depends:
- depending on the regional location of the clinic - in small towns the cost is lower than in big cities;
- veterinary hospital level;
- pet's body weight;
- additional services - travel to home conditions, subsequent cremation.
The average price varies from 500 to 5000 rubles; in Moscow, the average cost of the procedure is about 2750 rubles. A doctor’s visit to your home will increase the total cost by 1000-1500 rubles, cremation will add 500 or more rubles.
Euthanasia of an incurable cat is not murder, but an opportunity for the animal to stop suffering. The procedure will stop the suffering of the animal and its owner - the latter will not worry about his own helplessness.
How to cut a cat's hair: types of haircuts
| Type of haircut | Description |
| Exhibition (Harlequin, Continental, Modern) |
Haircut Continental
Choosing Cat Grooming Tools
The haircut can be carried out using scissors (medium size, sharp with rounded ends) or a clipper, preferably silent, so as not to frighten the pet. The latter method is more effective and safer - there is practically no possibility of injuring the animal, and the result is guaranteed: a uniform haircut with the ability to choose the desired length of fur.
- soft comb;
- textile;
- hydrogen peroxide or chlorhexidine (needed if you injure an animal);
- toys and treats;
- table (or other surface).
It is better to immobilize the cat during the procedure. For example, wear a special collar. It is better for the second person to hold the cat and calm it while the first haircut is performed.
If the animal is very aggressive, it is better to visit a veterinary clinic. In some cases, anesthesia may be needed. It is worth doing it only if there is no other option. For example, a cat is covered in tangles and it’s hard for him.
How are animals euthanized?
If the owners of the animal, after trying all possible means and consulting with a veterinarian, decide that there is no other option other than euthanasia, the veterinarian performs euthanasia. This is done in two stages: first, the animal is given general anesthesia to stop pain sensitivity, then a medicinal arrest of respiratory and cardiac activity is performed.
Euthanasia of animals should be carried out only under general anesthesia, the same as that used for surgical operations. The differences will only be in the dosage; when euthanized, the dose of the drug will be much higher. Deep anesthesia ensures the absence of any sensations and completely turns off consciousness, so everything goes humanely and painlessly for the animal. Making a final decision is never easy; we recommend that you first consult with an experienced veterinarian and make sure that the animal cannot recover further.
Preparing for a haircut
The preparatory steps are as follows:
- Examine the cat. If there are skin lesions, it is recommended to reschedule the haircut. However, you don’t have to do this; then the wounded area needs to be carefully trimmed so that the wound is visible.
- Wash your pet.
- Decide on a tool. It should be well pointed.
- Choose the right time. The best thing is a period of rest, since while the cat is awake, it can injure both itself and the person.
Methods of painless euthanasia
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The method refers to irreversible processes, with the deliberate deprivation of the life of an animal under constant control. During the manipulations, dysfunction of the nervous, cardiac, and pulmonary systems gradually occurs.
Important! The technique is intended to stop the torment of a hopelessly ill organism - for good. For the animal it is painless.
How do they euthanize sick cats in veterinary clinics? Regardless of the location, the process takes place in several steps:
- The pet owner signs all necessary documents confirming his consent to the procedure. The decision is made voluntarily; no one can force the owner of a sick animal to agree to the operation. The veterinarian's opinion does not matter.
- The cat is given a sleeping pill or painkiller, with which it falls asleep and completely loses sensitivity. If such a clause is not stipulated in the contract of a pet clinic or field specialist, then it means they are working on scammers.
- Muscle relaxants are administered after confirmation of the transition to the deep phase of sleep - the pet does not feel anything and does not react to external stimuli. The result of their action will be a gradual slowdown in muscle activity, stopping the work of the heart muscle and stopping breathing.
- The heart is listened to; if there are no contractions, death is declared.
Medicines
The owner can be with the cat being euthanized at all times or refuse to attend the procedure. Before carrying out the manipulations, the veterinarian describes in detail all phases, focusing on key points. Doctors advise standing near the pet only during the introduction of anesthesia, and then leaving the manipulation room. After the administration of muscle relaxants, convulsions occur, which are perceived as a painful reaction to the injection.
Sedatives
Veterinary clinics can use:
- Xylazine hydrochloride;
- Xila;
- Xylanite;
- Rometar.
Important! The drugs are analogous in their spectrum of action and are used in veterinary medicine for a sedative effect. In large dosages, the drugs provoke respiratory arrest.
Anesthetics
Painkillers include:
- Pentobarbital sodium;
- Sodium etaminal;
- Sodium thiopental;
- Propofol;
- Droperidol;
- Zolazepam.
Medicines are responsible for suppressing the central nervous system, placing the patient under deep anesthesia, and can provoke a stop in the functioning of the respiratory center.
Muscle relaxants
Block neuromuscular conduction. When euthanasia can be used:
- Ardoin;
- Aperomide;
- Vero-Pipecuronium.
Antiarrhythmic
In veterinary medicine they use:
- Lidocaine;
- Versatis;
- Xylocaine;
- Helicain.
Large dosages cause cardiac arrest due to the cardiotoxic effect.
Important! It will not be possible to legally kill a healthy cat - not a single station will undertake the procedure without reason.
When contacting dubious specialists, you can expect painful and long agony for a dying animal - most of them break the rules and administer muscle relaxants without anesthesia, leaving the pet to suffocate in full consciousness.
Mr. Cat recommends: step-by-step instructions for grooming a cat
- Prepare all necessary tools and disinfect them.
- Trim the nails with a nail clipper or using regular nail scissors. Take the animal's paw, press on the pad and trim the claw. Read the article about how to choose a nail clipper for a cat, what they are like and how much they cost.
- Immobilize your pet by placing it on its side and holding its paws.
- In case of aggressive behavior, wear a special plastic collar.
- Immediately cut the fur from the sides, then from the back and belly. Take special care in the nipple area.
- The skin should be taut to avoid injury. It is better to remove tangles with scissors, preferably before cutting or as you find them.
- You can cut both against hair growth and along.
- At the end of the work, the cat should be wiped with a damp cloth.
After the haircut
As we have already said, after grooming the cat should be wiped with a damp cloth, and it is also worth combing it. As a rule, cats easily get used to their trimmed appearance. But some problems may arise:
- The cat may get injured when scratching or playing the first time after the haircut.
- May begin to lick itself more often and exhibit slight irritation.
- In rare cases, the behavior may change and aggression may appear: the cat damages furniture, defecates in inappropriate places, or attacks.
If the cat’s behavior does not return to normal on its own, then you need to contact a veterinarian.
