What happens to a cat's body when it dies? - briefly
When a cat dies, its body undergoes rigor mortis, followed by decomposition as tissues break down and bacteria act on the remains.
What happens to a cat's body when it dies? - in detail
When a cat dies, its body undergoes a series of biological processes collectively known as decomposition. Immediately after death, the heart stops pumping blood, leading to the cessation of oxygen and nutrient delivery to cells. This triggers cellular death, starting with the brain and vital organs. Within minutes to hours, rigor mortis sets in as muscle fibers contract and stiffen due to chemical changes in the cells, particularly the depletion of ATP. This stiffness typically lasts for 24–48 hours before the muscles relax again. Simultaneously, the body begins to cool, a process called algor mortis, as it loses heat to the surrounding environment. Internal bacteria, no longer kept in check by the immune system, start to break down tissues, releasing gases that cause bloating. This is followed by the breakdown of proteins and fats, leading to the release of fluids and the eventual collapse of the body’s structure. Over time, insects and other scavengers may further contribute to the decomposition process. Environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and exposure to air significantly influence the rate of decomposition. In dry or cold conditions, the process slows, potentially leading to mummification, while in warm, moist environments, decomposition accelerates. Ultimately, the cat’s body returns to its basic organic components, reintegrating with the ecosystem.