How to make sure a cat is dead? - briefly
To ensure a cat is deceased, check for the absence of vital signs such as breathing and heartbeat. Additionally, look for rigor mortis, which typically sets in within a few hours after death.
How to make sure a cat is dead? - in detail
To ensure that a cat is deceased, it is crucial to follow a systematic approach that combines both physical and behavioral observations. This process should be undertaken with care and precision to avoid any false conclusions or unnecessary distress.
Firstly, check for absence of breath. Place your hand gently near the cat's nostrils. If there is no movement of air or rise and fall of the chest, it may indicate that breathing has stopped. However, this method alone should not be conclusive.
Secondly, feel for a pulse. Gently place two fingers on the cat's femoral artery, which is located on the inside of the hind leg, just above the knee joint. If you do not detect any heartbeat after a minute of careful observation, it suggests that circulation has ceased. Again, this method should be used in conjunction with other signs to confirm death.
Thirdly, examine the cat's eyes for lack of reflex. Gently lift the cat's upper eyelid and shine a light into the eye. In a living animal, the pupil would constrict in response to light. If there is no pupillary reaction, it indicates that the brainstem, which controls many automatic functions including the pupil reflex, may have stopped functioning.
Fourthly, assess the cat's body temperature. A deceased animal will begin to cool down quickly as the body's heat dissipates. To check for this, place the back of your hand on the cat's abdomen or between its ears. If the cat is warm, it may still be alive; if it feels cold, it is a strong indication that death has occurred.
Lastly, observe for any movement or signs of life over an extended period. If after several minutes there are no twitches, gasps, or other involuntary movements, it strengthens the likelihood that the cat has passed away. It's important to note that even if all these signs point to death, it is always advisable to consult with a veterinarian for a definitive determination, especially in cases where there might be any doubt.