The decision to have a pet euthanized may be one of the hardest choices you will ever have to make as an owner. It is not only about letting go, but above all about love, responsibility, and safeguarding the quality of life of an animal that trusts you completely. There is no fixed moment or age at which this decision is ‘right.’ However, there are signs that can help you, together with your veterinarian, arrive at a dignified and loving decision.

In dogs, quality of life is often more visibly apparent. A dog tends to show more clearly when things are truly no longer manageable, both physically and mentally.

You should consider the decision when your dog can no longer live a dignified life due to:

- Unbearable pain that can no longer be treated or controlled

- An incurable illness with no prospect of improvement

- Severe age-related conditions such as advanced arthritis or neurological disorders

- Behavioral problems that pose a danger to themselves or their surroundings, for example due to dementia

Signs that may indicate serious suffering include:

- No longer wanting to eat or drink

- Loss of interest in play or social contact

- Lethargy, confusion, or apathetic behavior

- Being unable to move independently

- Severe incontinence, which is often very stressful and undignified for dogs

- Aggression resulting from pain, fear, or cognitive decline

Sometimes you can literally see it in their eyes. That look that seems to say, “I’m tired. Help me.” That moment, heartbreaking as it is, is often the signal to honestly evaluate, together with your veterinarian, what is still feasible.

Cats cope with pain and discomfort very differently. Where a dog often clings to their owner, a cat is more likely to withdraw. Behavioral changes are therefore especially important to take seriously in cats.**

Possible signs in cats include:

- Less cuddling or purring
- Withdrawing or isolating themselves more often
- No longer lying in the sun or avoiding familiar favorite spots
- Being less active than they used to be

Cats are masters at hiding pain.This is a strong survival strategy: in the wild, showing weakness makes you vulnerable to attackers. As a result, you often only notice something when the pain has already become severe. Chronic pain is even harder to detect and may show itself only as ‘being a bit quieter.’

Do you notice that your cat is withdrawing more and more or behaving noticeably differently? Then this is an important warning sign. Don’t wait too long and discuss this with your veterinarian. Together, you can assess your cat’s quality of life and what options may still be available.

Many pet owners struggle with the question, ‘Is it too soon?’ or ‘Have I tried long enough?’ But saying goodbye is not tied to age. Young or old, it is not about how many years you had together, but about how those years — and especially the final period — feel for your pet.

Never make this decision alone. Always consult your veterinarian and talk openly about your doubts, fears, and feelings. Involve your family in the process as well. Children often sense more than we realize and, like adults, need explanations and the opportunity to say goodbye. This helps them cope with the loss.

In conclusion
Euthanasia is not a failure. Sometimes it is the final, most loving act you can do for your pet. By recognizing their suffering and intervening in time, you choose peace, dignity, and comfort. And no matter how heavy it feels: you are doing it out of pure love.