A Gentle Guide to Understanding Your Pet’s Quality of Life

Making an end-of-life decision for a much-loved pet is never simple. There is rarely a single moment that tells you “now is the time”. Instead, it is usually a gradual change in their comfort, mobility and enjoyment of day-to-day life. Many families find it helpful to think in terms of quality of life rather than length of life.

1. Good days versus bad days

One simple way to reflect is to consider whether your pet is having more good days than bad days. On good days, they may still show interest in food, contact, or a short walk. On bad days, they may appear withdrawn, uncomfortable or exhausted. When the bad days begin to clearly outweigh the good, it can be a sign that their body is becoming tired.

2. Comfort and pain management

Modern veterinary care can often control pain for a period of time. However, if your pet requires increasing doses of medication, or still seems distressed despite treatment, their suffering may no longer be manageable. Your vet can help you assess whether pain relief is still effective.

3. Mobility and independence

Pets who struggle to stand, walk to their bed, or reach the garden to go to the toilet may feel frustrated or distressed. Needing to be lifted or carried for most daily activities can be a clear indication that their quality of life is changing, especially in larger dogs.

4. Appetite, weight and hydration

A reduced appetite over a prolonged period, ongoing weight loss, or reluctance to drink can indicate organ failure or advanced disease. Because animals instinctively hide pain, changes in eating and drinking often tell us more about how they are feeling than their behaviour alone.

5. Emotional wellbeing and behaviour

Confusion, restlessness at night, pacing, or becoming unusually clingy or distant can all be signs that your pet is struggling. In older animals, this may be related to cognitive decline as well as physical illness.

Talking things through

It is entirely natural to feel uncertain or guilty when thinking about euthanasia. These feelings simply reflect how much you care. Speaking openly with your vet, and with a compassionate support team, can help you understand your options and feel more confident that you are acting in your pet’s best interests.