Our Vets are Available 🟢
The logo for Dial A Vet, the online vet company.
Pet Health
Blogs
Dog HealthCat HealthVeterinary ServicesPet Health
ask a vet
Ask A Vet Q&A - Free!
resources
Free Symptom CheckerDial A Vet NZFind a Local Vet Clinic
about DIAL A VET
Terms & Conditions
Privacy PolicyEditorial Guidelines
View all Blogs
Over 6,000 Articles
View All Q&A
5,000+ Answers
Resources
Lorem ipsum dolor
PricingHow it WorksContact
Chat to a Vet

Question:

Disturbing things while putting cat to sleep

I'm really struggling and could use some advice or just a listening ear. Yesterday, I had to make the heart-wrenching decision to put my beloved cat, Max, to sleep. He was my companion for over 15 years. I've been an emotional wreck since then, but there's one thing that's haunting me, and I can't shake it. As the vet was administering the medication, Max suddenly started twitching, and I swear his eyes looked wide open for a moment, as if in shock or distress. I wasn't expecting that at all, and it looked so unnatural and disturbing that it's just stuck in my mind. The vet assured me it was normal, but I can't stop replaying the scene, wondering if he suffered at all. Has anyone else gone through something like this? Could use some reassurance or advice on how to process this. Thanks so much for reading.

Answer:

Hello there! It's completely understandable to feel concerned when your cat seems unsettled while going to sleep. Cats can become restless or disturbed for a number of reasons. It might be as simple as a change in their environment, like a new noise or different sleeping spot, which can make them feel uneasy. Cats are creatures of habit and any disruption to their routine can throw them off a bit.



Another reason could be discomfort or pain. If your cat is older, they might be experiencing joint pain or arthritis, which can make finding a comfortable position difficult. Stress or anxiety, possibly from a recent change, can also lead to restlessness.



For at-home care, try to maintain a consistent bedtime routine and ensure that your cat has a cozy, quiet sleeping area. Calming pheromone diffusers might also help to create a more serene environment.



Keep an eye out for signs such as excessive grooming, decrease in appetite, hiding, or vocalizing more than usual - these could indicate a more serious problem like pain or an underlying health issue.



If your cat's behavior doesn't improve or you notice any of these concerning signs, I'd recommend booking a video consult with a Dial A Vet professional. They can provide reassurance and guide you based on your cat's specific needs.

Answered by

Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet

June 19, 2025

  Book A Vet Consultation
The "Ask a Vet" forum on Dial A Vet offers general information and helpful tips on pet health, but it's not a substitute for professional veterinary care. The advice here doesn't create a veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and our vets can't diagnose or treat your pet remotely. For emergencies or specific medical concerns, always contact your local veterinarian immediately. Your pet's health is unique, and decisions should only be made after consulting with a qualified professional. By using this forum, you acknowledge these limitations and agree to seek in-person veterinary advice for all your pet's health needs. View our content guidelines.
🧠 Related Pet Owner Questions
My French Bulldog had a c section and she was fine afterwards, but all 3 of her puppies died within 2 hours due to breathing problems.
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
My recently spayed kitten threw up
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Vagal response in cat after throwing up, or something else?
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I think my foster kitten has FIP and don't know if he can wait until morning
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Money Magazine
Australia's Leading
Online Vet
TrustPilot:
Excellent
Real Vets

Thousands of Pet Owners across the Globe rely on Dial A Vet for peace of mind.

Real questions, vet reviewed answers and quality care.

Trusted by 40,000+ users
4.7/5
dog in grass
Ina
Pet Owner

It was so easy, I needed some eye drops for my dog and thinking about going to the vet on a weekend made me nervous about the cost involved. Dial A Vet was a much simpler, cheaper option with faster results. Within 10 minutes of the call, I had the medicine I needed for my dog without an expensive consultation.

25 May 2025
Joanne
Pet Owner

A great fast efficient service with a qualified vet who was lovely and helpful. Thank you Samantha. I was able to sort my dog at 6pm on a Sunday night for $49 - amazing. Highly recommend.

12 May 2025
Lisa
Pet Owner

What an amazing service, at my wits end as I knew my beautiful dog had an ear infection, could not get into the vet for 4 days. Never knew there was vets online until I googled. Within 15 minutes on a Sunday I was taking to beautiful Samantha who diagnosed and treated our Jasper. Only $49. She trusted that we knew our boy and gave us lots of advice. I will definitely be using dial a vet every time and sharing with all my friends and family. Absolutely fantastic kind caring service. 11/10

7 April 2025
The logo for Dial A Vet, the online vet company.

With Dial A Vet, expert veterinary advice is just a tap away. Get fast vet consultations, trusted care, and personalized pet support—anytime, anywhere, all year round.

Dial A Vets uses software that is HIPAA compliant and SOC - 2 Certified.

support@dialavet.com.au

dial a vet owner with cat
dial a vet pet owner with dog in a orange top
colourful pet owner with their dog
40k+
Pet Owners
Fluffy stuff
Terms & ConditionsPrivacy policy
Company
How It WorksPricingBlogFree Online VetOnline VetPet Symptom CheckerFind a Local Vet ClinicFree Teachers lesson plansGasTexts: Free Gas Prices TextedCheersVC
NEW ZEALAND
Speak to A Vet NZ
Our Social Links