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Smeltzer31970 Asked September 2015

Does anyone have a few tips on how to handle the passing of a pet with a dementia pt?

She is aware enough to know the cat is missing, the cat is in renal failure and I do not think I can keep her going much longer. I do not have the energy to deal with her breakdown over this to be honest. She will blame me for killing her even though I love her also and have spent the past week feeding, loving and giving meds.

Smeltzer31970 Sep 2015
She tends to be obsessive and when it comes to some things tends to retain more than you would think.

Sunnygirl1 Sep 2015
Would she remember from hour to hour the information she is given or would she likely repeatedly ask about the cat? It's a personal decision, but for me, I don't see the point of giving them any bad news.

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Smeltzer31970 Sep 2015
Right now I think she would know, in time she would probably forget.

Sunnygirl1 Sep 2015
I think it depends on the level of dementia. When they are not really able to process what death means or what is going on, I don't see any point in telling them, because they may forget and then you have to tell them over and over that the cat died. That just adds needless pain, IMO.

I would consider saying the cat had to get some treatments at the vet and is staying with the vet assistant while getting the treatments. That way she can be comforted that the cat is being well cared for. Eventually, the cat topic may subside.

My loved one has completely forgotten about her beloved cat. Her cat was the most important thing to her in the world, but now, she has no idea the cat existed.

Smeltzer31970 Sep 2015
Thank You.

freqflyer Sep 2015
I did a search on this forum and found a similar question with very helpful answers. Hope this can help you.

https://www.agingcare.com/questions/moms-13-year-old-pet-passed-away-how-do-i-console-her-167205.htm

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