Euthanasia is a term used to describe the ending of the life of an animal in a manner that minimizes pain, anxiety, and distress. The American Association of Feline Practitioners defines death resulting from compassionate and humane euthanasia as the unfortunate and unavoidable consequence of the need to end suffering.1 In veterinary medicine, euthanasia is the accepted solution to end pain and suffering when the cause for the suffering cannot be corrected.2
The position statement contains additional information on:
- Moral and ethical considerations
- The decision to euthanize
- The welfare of the patient, owners, veterinarian, and animal care staff
- Technical considerations
References:
- McMillan FD. Rethinking euthanasia: death as an unintentional outcome. J AmVet Med Assoc 2001; 219: 1204-1206.
- Shanan A. A veterinarian’s role in helping pet owners with decision making. Vet Clin Small Anim 2011; 41: 635-646.
© Feline Veterinary Medical Association, 2024