How do you know when it is time to say goodbye?

[Arrowheart]

My cat has a fast growing cancerous tumour on her shoulder blades which I have been told if it were to be removed it would more than likely, because of where it is, come back. It is about the size of a small apple. She is not eating as much, she has not touched her food today. Sleeps all the time and doesn't want to go out. Is it time? How do I know what is best?

We put our elderly cat down when he went off his food & was getting quite skinny. He could still enjoy a cuddle, would purr in response to strokes, & wandered around exploring places a bit, but basically he was getting quite weak & couldn't get better.

I don't know how that compares to your cat. One day off their food doesn't mean much. Mostly sleeping is ok if they seem happy enough to do that and can still enjoy many moments awake.

She's only 8 too which seems so unfair.

Sorry that your little kitty is poorly. Knowing when it's the right time isn't necessarily obvious because they can behave so normally in so many ways. Not eating isn't good for cats. I take mine to the vet frequently towards the end of their lives, for guidance, as it's so hard to make the decision on my own. It's such a big responsibility.

There's a Cat Quality of Life assessment tool available on line. It's easy and accessible, and approved by RCVS.