What Rigor mortis can tell me about my cat's passing away?

I'm truly sorry to hear about your cat's passing. It's always difficult to lose a beloved pet. Rigor mortis, which is the stiffening of muscles after death, can provide some insight into the time frame of when your cat passed away. It typically begins a few hours after death and can persist for up to 72 hours. The stiffening starts as the body's processes come to a halt, causing muscles to lock in place.



Rigor mortis alone doesn’t explain the cause of death but can help you understand the timing. It's also important to consider your cat's recent health and behavior changes that might have led up to the passing.



While there's not much you can do at home regarding rigor mortis itself, ensuring your pet's environment is peaceful during this time can be emotionally soothing.



Keep a lookout for any signs that could indicate a serious issue, like sudden unexplained symptoms before passing or known exposure to toxins. These details can be crucial if you are considering having a necropsy done to find out more about the cause of death.



Feel free to book a video consult with a Dial A Vet professional if you’re seeking more insights or need support during this time. It's natural to have questions, and we're here to help you through this emotional period.