Decreased body temperature. Her body temperature will cool as her heart slows its beats. As a result, she may lose feelings in her limbs and have difficulty to moving.

Not moving from one spot. Cats often find one resting area, and wait out their symptoms there. It may take several hours or days for her to pass; she will likely spend most of it drifting in and out of sleep.

Disorientation. You may notice her staring off into the distance, oblivious to what’s going on around her. Some cats don’t even recognize their owners when they’re dying. Be sure to speak slowly and softly as not to startle her.

Labored breathing. Your cat’s breathing may become rapid and shallow, or it will become slow and heavy. Toward the end, you’ll notice greater lapses between breaths—maybe even a minute apart.

Impaired vision. Cats often lose their sight before dying. Rest assured they generally maintain their hearing—your soothing words will be heard.

Reluctance to eat or drink. As your cat’s body starts shutting down, she will gradually stop eating and drinking, meaning she’ll release less urine and feces. Also, the urine will take on a darker color.

It’s never easy to say goodbye to your pet, especially if she dies without warning. Caring for her in her final moments will help ease her transition and hopefully provide some closure for you.