Have you ever wondered what happens to your beloved feline friend after they pass away?
It’s a difficult topic to think about, but it’s important to understand the natural process of decomposition.
So, how long does it take for a cat to decompose?
Well, it depends on a variety of factors such as the environment and circumstances of their death.
The length of time it takes for a cat to decompose is ranging from 6 months to 15 years and is determined by factors such as the body’s position, temperature, humidity, the presence of insects or other decomposers, and body fat percentage.
But don’t worry, we’ll break it all down for you in this article.
Get ready to learn about the fascinating (and sometimes icky) details of decomposition. Just try not to think about it too much – we know it’s hard!
Key Takeaways
- The decomposition of a cat’s body depends on temperature, humidity, and the presence of insects or other decomposers
- Can take decades in very cold climates and a few months in natural or mild environments
- Temperature is a major factor in the decomposition process, with higher temperatures speeding it up and lower temperatures slowing it down
- Humidity and presence of insects and other decomposers also affect decomposition
- Factors that can delay decomposition include burial, embalming, and the use of insecticides or other chemicals
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How Long Does It Take For A Cat To Decompose?
The duration of the decomposition process is entirely dependent on the temperature, humidity, and the presence of insects or other decomposers. It could take decades in very cold climates. It will take a few months in a natural or mild environment.
Despite the fact that various variables determine their decomposition period, bodies go through the same stages of decomposition.
“The decomposition process in animals is highly dependent on the environment in which they are found.
In warm, moist conditions, the process can occur relatively quickly, with the body breaking down within a few weeks. In colder, drier conditions, decomposition may take several months or longer.”
Dr. Elizabeth A. Murray, Associate Professor of Anatomy and Clinical Sciences at Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine
Cat Decomposition Timeline: Process Of Decomposition
1. Fresh Stage
It is the first step in the decomposition of a cat’s body. In the initial stages of decomposition, the body begins to cool and lose rigidity.
The skin may become pale and discolored, and the abdomen may become swollen. At this stage, the body may emit a strong odor due to the release of gases.
2. Bloat Stage
During the intermediate stages, the body continues to break down, with visible signs of decay such as bloat, discoloration, and the presence of maggots.
The body may also begin to shrink and collapse as the tissues begin to break down.
3. Active Decay Stage
In the advanced stages of decomposition, the body has significantly decomposed, with visible signs of decay such as mummification or skeletonization.
The body may also be infested with insects, which can help to further break down the tissues.
4. Skeletonization Stage
Skeletonization is the final stage of decomposition in a cat’s body, and it typically occurs several weeks to several months after death.
During this stage, all of the soft tissue in the cat’s body has been decomposed and only the bones remain. The bones may be scattered or partially disarticulated (disconnected from one another), but they are still relatively intact.
At this point, the bones may be cleaned and bleached by the sun and other environmental factors, giving them a white or yellowish color.
Estimated Timeframe for Cat Decomposition
| Within 1-2 days | The body begins to bloat and may release fluids |
| Within 3-5 days | The body begins to decompose and emit a strong odor |
| Within 1-2 weeks | The body becomes skeletonized, with only bones remaining |
| Within 1-3 months | The bones begin to break down and may become partially or fully submerged in soil or water |
Factors That Affect Cat’s Decomposition
1. Temperature
Temperature is a major factor in the decomposition process.
As a general rule, the higher the temperature, the faster the decomposition process will be.
This is because high temperatures can speed up the activity of decomposers such as bacteria and insects, which break down the body’s tissues and organs.
“Temperature is one of the main factors that influence decomposition. Higher temperatures increase the activity of insects and bacteria, which can speed up the decomposition process.
On the other hand, lower temperatures can slow down decomposition due to the reduced activity of decomposers.”
Dr. Jerry Payne, forensic entomologist
2. Humidity
In humid environments, decomposition can occur more quickly due to the increased presence of moisture, which can help to break down the body’s tissues.
On the other hand, in dry environments, decomposition may be slowed down due to the lack of moisture.
3. Presence of insects and other decomposers
Insects such as beetles, flies, and ants are attracted to the scent of decomposing flesh, and they can help to break down the body’s tissues.
These insects can also lay eggs on the body, which can hatch into maggots that further assist in the decomposition process.
“The presence of insects and other decomposers is essential for the decomposition process. These organisms help to break down the body’s tissues and organs, making it easier for the body to decompose.
Without insects and other decomposers, decomposition may be slowed down significantly.” –
Dr. Mary Roach, forensic scientist
4. Interactions between factors
It’s worth noting that these factors can interact with each other in complex ways, and the rate of decomposition can vary significantly depending on the specific conditions.
For example, a cat’s body may decompose more quickly in a hot, humid environment with a high population of insects, compared to a cooler, drier environment with fewer insects.
Must Read: How to Bury a Cat During the Winter?
Average Decomposition Rates For Cats In Different Parts Of The World
| Location | Decomposition Rate |
|---|---|
| Tropical Regions | Quick |
| Temperate Regions | Moderate |
| Arid Regions | Slow |
| Subarctic Regions | Slow |
| Arctic Regions | Very Slow |
| Urban Environments | Moderate to Quick |
| Rural Environments | Moderate to Slow |
| Wetlands | Quick |
| Forests | Moderate |
| Grasslands | Moderate to Slow |
| Deserts | Slow |
Again, these estimates are generalizations and the actual decomposition rate may vary significantly depending on the specific circumstances.
How Long Can You Keep A Dead Cat In The House?
It is not advisable to keep a deceased cat in the house for an extended period of time due to the potential for unpleasant odors and potential health hazards. It is recommended to keep the cat in a cool, dry place for a short period of time before making arrangements for its proper disposal.
It’s understandable that you may want to keep a deceased pet in the house for a little while, especially if you’re feeling very emotional and not ready to say goodbye just yet. However, it’s important to consider how long you can realistically keep a dead cat in the house. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
It’s understandable that you may want to keep a deceased pet in the house for a little while, especially if you’re feeling very emotional and not ready to say goodbye just yet. However, it’s important to consider how long you can realistically keep a dead cat in the house. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
It’s understandable that you may want to keep a deceased pet in the house for a little while, especially if you’re feeling very emotional and not ready to say goodbye just yet.
However, it’s important to consider how long you can realistically keep a dead cat in the house.
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
First and foremost, it’s important to be mindful of the health and safety of your family and anyone else who may come into the house. A deceased animal can start to decompose quickly, which can lead to an unpleasant odor and potentially even health hazards.
If you do decide to keep your cat in the house for a little while, it’s a good idea to keep it in a cool, dry place, away from any living animals or children.
As the cat starts to decompose, it’s important to be prepared for the smell to become more intense. You may want to consider using air fresheners or placing the cat in a room that can be closed off from the rest of the house.
It’s also a good idea to consider the amount of time you have before someone else needs to use the room where the cat is. If you have a spare room that can be used temporarily, that might be a good option.
Ultimately, it’s important to remember that it’s not realistic or safe to keep a deceased animal in the house for an extended period of time.
It’s important to consider the well-being of your family and the respect for the deceased animal when deciding how long to keep it in the house.
It might be helpful to talk with a trusted friend or family member, or even a pet bereavement counselor, to help you through this difficult time.
“It is not realistic or safe to keep a deceased animal in the house for an extended period of time. It is important to remember that it is okay to grieve and take the time you need to say goodbye, but it is also important to be mindful of the health and safety of those around you.”
Dr. Karen S. Becker, veterinarian and author
You might like to know about Rigor Mortis In Cats
How Can You Store Your Cat Until You Bury Or Cremate Him?
To store your cat until you bury or cremate him, you can use a temporary storage solution such as a pet casket or a cardboard box lined with a blanket.
You can also involve a trusted friend or family member for support, or reach out to a professional pet cremation or burial service for guidance. The most important thing is to treat your cat’s body with respect and care.
When faced with the difficult task of storing your cat until you bury or cremate him, it’s important to consider a few key factors.
Firstly, you’ll want to find a way to keep your cat’s body in a safe and respectful manner. This may mean finding a temporary storage solution, such as a specially designed pet casket or even a simple cardboard box lined with a soft blanket.
According to researchers, the best way to store animal bodies is in a freezer or refrigerator, but if you don’t have one, you should at least keep the body in a really cold place.
It’s also important to consider the emotional impact of this process. Losing a beloved pet can be devastating, and it’s natural to feel overwhelmed and grief-stricken. It’s okay to take some time to process your feelings and allow yourself to feel whatever emotions come up.
One way to help manage these emotions is to involve a trusted friend or family member in the process. They can help with the practicalities of storing your cat’s body and provide emotional support during this difficult time.
Another option is to reach out to a professional pet cremation or burial service. They can help you navigate the process and provide guidance on the best options for storing your cat until the final disposition.
Ultimately, the most important thing is to treat your cat’s body with respect and care. Whether you choose to bury or cremate your beloved feline friend, taking the time to find a suitable storage solution can help you navigate this difficult time with grace and dignity.
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How Long Does It Take For A Dead Cat To Start Smelling?
It typically takes a dead cat 1-2 days to start smelling if left out in the open, but it may take longer if the body is sealed in a container or properly preserved.
Well, it really depends on a few different factors. For starters, how long has the cat been dead? If it’s only been a few hours, you’re probably not going to notice much of a smell yet. But if it’s been a couple of days or more, you’re definitely going to start noticing something.
The second factor is the temperature. If it’s really hot out, the smell is going to be much stronger and more noticeable. On the other hand, if it’s cold out, the smell will be less noticeable.
Another factor is where the cat is. If it’s outside, the smell is going to dissipate more quickly because of the airflow. But if it’s inside, the smell is going to be much more concentrated and take longer to go away.
It’s worth noting that the smell of a decomposing animal can be quite pungent and overwhelming. It’s usually a combination of putrid and rotten odors that can be tough to get rid of. If you come across a dead cat that’s starting to smell, it’s important to handle the situation carefully.
One thing to keep in mind is that the smell of a decomposing cat can attract other animals, such as flies or rodents. These animals can cause additional problems if they start to feed on the corpse, so it’s important to remove the body as soon as possible.
If you’re not sure how long it’s been since the cat died, it’s always a good idea to err on the side of caution and assume that the body may be starting to smell. This way, you can take steps to properly dispose of the body and minimize any potential risks.
So, all in all, it’s really hard to say exactly how long it will take for a dead cat to stop smelling. It could be a few days, or it could be a few weeks. It just depends on the circumstances.
But one thing’s for sure – it’s not going to be a pleasant smell, so you’ll probably want to get rid of the body as soon as possible. Sorry to be the bearer of bad news!
How Long Does It Take For A Dead Cat To Stop Smelling?
It’s a question that no one really wants to think about, but it’s important to know the answer to: how long does it take for a dead cat to stop smelling? The truth is, it can take a while.
When a cat dies, its body begins to decompose, and that process can produce a strong, unpleasant odor.
The length of time it takes for the smell to dissipate depends on a few factors, including the size of the cat, the temperature and humidity of the environment, and how quickly the body is removed.
In general, it can take anywhere from a few days to a week or more for a dead cat’s smell to fully dissipate.
If the body is left in a warm, humid place, the decomposition process will be faster and the smell may be more intense. On the other hand, if the body is kept in a cool, dry place, it may take longer for the smell to fade.
So, what can you do to speed up the process and get rid of the smell as quickly as possible?
The best thing to do is to remove the body as soon as possible and place it in a cool, dry place. If you’re unable to do this yourself, you can contact a local animal control agency or a pet cremation service to handle the situation for you.
It’s also a good idea to thoroughly clean any surfaces or areas where the cat may have come into contact with, as the smell can linger on these surfaces.
Using a strong, antimicrobial cleaning solution can help to kill any bacteria or other microbes that may be contributing to the smell.
In conclusion, it can take a while for a dead cat to stop smelling, but with a little effort and some careful planning, you can help to minimize the odor and get rid of it as quickly as possible.
Remember, it’s always best to handle the situation with sensitivity and care, and to seek professional help if you’re unable to manage the situation on your own.
Factors Affecting the Duration of Cat Decomposition Odor
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Temperature | Higher temperatures accelerate the release of odors, while lower temperatures slow it down |
| Humidity | High humidity speeds up the release of odors, while low humidity slows it down |
| Exposure to sunlight | Direct sunlight speeds up the release of odors, while shade slows it down |
| Size of the cat | Larger cats may emit odors for longer periods of time than smaller cats |
| Presence of scavengers | Scavengers (such as insects and animals) can accelerate the release of odors by consuming the body |
| Presence of debris or other materials | Debris or other materials (such as leaves or soil) may absorb or mask the odor of decomposing cats |
How Long Does It Take For A Buried Cat To Decompose?
The length of time it takes for a buried cat to decompose depends on a few factors, including the climate and soil conditions.
In general, it takes a buried cat anywhere from several weeks to several years to fully decompose. This can vary greatly depending on the specific circumstances.
For example, in warmer and more humid climates, decomposition may occur more quickly. In drier and cooler climates, it may take longer.
Soil conditions can also play a role in the decomposition process. For instance, if the soil is more alkaline, decomposition may occur more slowly. Conversely, if the soil is more acidic, it may speed up the process.
It’s also worth noting that the depth at which the cat is buried can impact the rate of decomposition. A cat that is buried deeper is likely to take longer to decompose, as the soil will provide some barrier against the elements.
All of this is to say that it’s difficult to pinpoint an exact time frame for when a buried cat will decompose.
It’s a sad and unpleasant subject, but it’s important to understand the process so that we can properly care for our beloved feline friends even after they pass away.
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How Long Does It Take For A Cat To Decompose If Not Buried?
For starters, the rate of decomposition is going to vary depending on the environment. If the cat is left out in the open, and exposed to the elements, it’s going to decompose much faster than if it’s kept in a cool, dry place.
The temperature, humidity, and other factors can all play a role in how quickly the decomposition process happens.
It’s also worth noting that the size and age of the cat can make a difference. A smaller cat is going to decompose faster than a larger one, and an older cat may have already begun to decompose before it even died.
Overall, it’s tough to give an exact timeline for how long it takes for a cat to decompose if it’s not buried. But if you’re asking for a rough estimate, I’d say it could take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months for the process to be completed.
Can You Put A Dead Cat In The Garbage?
You should not put a dead cat in the garbage openly as it will stink and emit bad odors.
Some states and counties may not make throwing a dead cat in the trash illegal. In fact, for certain people, particularly those who cannot afford a pet graveyard, cremation, or funeral, it is a required decision.
Many people would undoubtedly criticize you if you choose this approach, but it all comes down to your available resources.
It’s important to note that this isn’t illegal, and there aren’t many rules against it.
However, if you want to be considerate, you should put your deceased pet in a cage, mark it, and notify the garbage collector.
For a variety of causes, keeping a dead cat is a natural move for most pet owners.
This is because they normally don’t know what to do with their deceased pet right away, and the other is that they want to savor their last moments with them.
Another example is where a cat is to be buried and other family members are required to attend the funeral. Alternatively, the pet may be kept for later taxidermy.
For the time being, whatever excuse you have for having a dead cat, remember that it only takes two days for it to start smelling.
The rate of decomposition, on the other hand, would be determined by the atmosphere and the size of your cat. It’s best to dispose of your dead pet within two days or less, just to be sure. If not, keep it in an airtight container in a cold place, preferably the freezer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What to do if you find a dead cat?
Move the cat to a secure place. Transport the cat to the closest veterinarian in a basket, old towel, or fur. The veterinarian will be able to search the pet for a microchip to notify the owner of the cat has one.
If you are unable to attend the nearest veterinarian, call Cats Protection, who will be able to assist you with identifying the animal.
If you are unable to send the cat to a veterinarian or a local Cats Protection group, you can report any dead animals you come across on the road to your local council, which also has dead animal disposal services.
Is it better to cremate or bury a pet?
Cremation is a better option than burying your pet’s remains because it is more practical and cost-effective. If you decide to get your cat or dog cremated, that doesn’t mean you can’t have a funeral service for him.
In reality, most animal crematories nowadays will help you prepare for a memorial. If your selected crematory is unable to do so, call your veterinarian, who will also assist you with making funeral and cremation plans.
Final Words
The level of decomposition of a cat is generally determined by a number of variables.
It usually depends on the size of your cat, the location where your cat’s body is buried, and the temperature of the location where you buried your cat.
In general, it takes years for your cat’s body to decompose, but the exact number of years depends on the variables that influence it.
The tropical or hot climate is the most common aspect that determines how quickly an animal’s body decomposes.
Don’t forget to drop your questions in the comments section below!
I founded a baby kitten infront of my house two days
ago(29/10/2021)…but it died yesterday morning(30/10/2021)
i reqllt tooked a great care of it…but i couldn’t save it’s life…a big attack camed into my house and killed that kitten infront of my eyes…i firstly thought that it was his mother/father…but Alas!it wasn’t….it killed by friend….i am totally brokened now….
30 october will remembered by me as a dark day of my life….
i need a help….
my question is how longer time may it take to decompose a kitten body?my kitten was very tiny…he was so tiny that he couldn’t open his eyes also…
if someone experienced can help me…please give answer…
My facebook profile name-Akmar Anjum Haque….
you can also text me there
Hello akmar,
First of all sorry to hear about your loss.
Coming to your question, as its mentioned earlier in article that decomposing period varies on various parameters and it is hard to tell any specific time-frame.
Thanks
I have been digging in my garden, and then realized that this was an area where a pet cat was buried from my childhood approximately 42 years ago!
After this length of time, would you expect there to be any visible remains such as bones?
Oh wow, that’s quite a surprising discovery! I can imagine it must have brought back some nostalgic memories from your childhood. As for your question, after 42 years, it’s possible that there may still be visible remains such as bones. However, the extent to which any remains are still present can depend on various factors such as the type of soil, the depth of the burial, and any external factors that may have affected the burial site over the years.
If the soil is acidic, it can accelerate the decomposition process, potentially leaving no visible remains. On the other hand, if the soil is dry and arid, it may preserve the remains for a longer period of time. The depth of the burial can also play a role, as deeper burials may provide more protection from external factors such as animals or weather.
Ultimately, it’s difficult to say for sure without examining the specific circumstances of the burial. However, regardless of what you may find, I hope you can approach the situation with a sense of curiosity and respect for the life that was once there.
My cat, Baby May, dyed in my arms tonight it was so sad I just broke my heart I had over 15 years and she was 15 years old I could talk to her she acted like she knew exactly what I said she was just me and her I’m just going to miss her so much I am Richard and your pink little belly again my husband made a little tiny box and painted it white and I put her little tiny bed in it and put a little silk pink and blanket over it and had her wrapped and her pink blanket and put it across on her and a little flower and I’m going to decorate the little box a little bit in the morning and write her name on it and her birthday and then she passed I’m taking you to my daughter’s because she’ll be living there for a long time so I just really I’m hurting so bad
Hello Kim,
Sad to know about your lose. It’s really hard time for any cat parent.
May her rest in peace.
Hie my cat was missing from saturday night 27.11.2021 she was my small world she was my bestfriend i miss her so much and i found her on 2.12.2021 thursday she was dead it was 5th days i found her and when i saw her body her eyes lips was missing and she has a hole in her thigh so wanted to know that when did she died after how many days these sign occur. And on thursday she was not smelling but on friday when we buried her she was smelling so after how many these sign occur plz help me to know.
Hello Guncha,
First ok all sorry to hear about your loss and hope you are doing well.
Regarding your question, its hard to predict exact time but from what you described, your cat is already decaying and decaying starts usually 2-5 days after death.
Thank you
Hello, I lost my cat a couple of days ago and buried her in my front yard. I would like to keep her skull but i don’t have the heart to remove it myself right now so i thought I’d let nature help me out. I’m planning on checking on her body every few months or so, but if you could help me determine a timeframe for when you think a skull could be retrieved that would be helpful.
The soil is a bit damp and I’m in a warm place, it’s winter right now and our lowest temperatures don’t go below 10° C. In the summer we get to ~40°C. I’m guessing this will help decompose her body faster, but i wouldn’t want to wait too long and have the bones potentially damaged. Any wild guess is helpful, thanks a lot in advance.
Hello,
First of all sorry for your loss.
Regarding your query, as mentioned in the article, decomposition depends on a broad number of factors but still, I have to take any wild guess then I would suggest you check every 6 months.
Thank You
Thank you for asking that question. I’ve lost several of my outdoor cats that I looked after, they were feral, but over the years they act like any house cat would. They depend on me for their needs and I love everyone of them. I lost Toni this morning and I’m almost 100 % certain my neighbor poisoned him and 3 others have not shown up in a few days, so I am assuming he killed them too. All because some cat killed a wild bird, so the neighbor is pissed and all the sudden my cats are missing and one dead…I wanted some of his bones..I am Native American and his bones will be with me forever as a necklace, or even just placed in a small box. But I don’t want to dig him up to check on him, I would rather just do it once. I live in texas and of course it is hot down here….I will check on him in 6 months. I hope my cat killing neighbor has bad luck come his way. People shouldn’t mess with mother nature and her animals, that is just twisted….he will get
I just lost my Chester he was 14 yrs old, male cat. He had what they called Aortic Thromboembolism (blood clot) it paralyzed his hind legs he was in terriable pain, I never heard him cry like he did. It sounded like someone was killing him, I miss my baby boy so much. He passed Jan. 18,2022…
Sorry to hear that. I am sure he is in a better place right now.
Our Glady Girl had a similar encounter which lead to her being put to sleep.. the vet told us that it was “Saddle Thrombus” also a blood clot that stopped the blood to her hind legs. She has been buried in our back yard now for 9 months and now has her sister beside her.. our Lil Chickenball a rescued pigeon died last night and we are devastated:( but now they can rest side by side… sorry for your loss 💔
(sorry for my english)
Hi, thanks for this useful post, I was searching on Google and directed to your good site.
Honestly, I have a serious big problem!!!
our cat went to very closed space of our attic with the poison of its neighbors and died there!
We do not have access to the cat’s body and it is not clear exactly where its body is!
The first days smelled too bad, but now a week has passed since the cat died,
But now we face a bigger problem! Pouring and coming fly larvae through the seams of the ceiling into the room!
Question (Given the humid and dark environment of the attic in a rainy city) :
1- How long (several days – several weeks) does the cat’s corpse decompose and How long fly larvae come?
2- brath in air of cat’s corpse decompose and living with larva Is it dangerous for health?
Please guide me and reply as soon as possible
Thanks & Regards
The answer to your first question would be – If your cat died in a humid spot, it’ll not take more than a week or two for it to decompose and start getting covered in larvae.
Secondly, you will not be able to bear the stench of the cat’s corpse. Once it starts forming larvae, it’ll become more unhygienic and will give birth to various harmful viruses and bacteria. Once you find the body, make sure to get rid of it before it starts decomposing.
It was really hard to see his little grave outside but I go outside and see him and tell him how much I miss his little face. my cat I grew up with a ginger cat called peanut had to be put to sleep due to a disease on the 27th of December 2021. It was either give him a few more months with medication or let him go free. I was a complete emotional mess knowing that it came to the point were he was in pain but it was too late to do anything.
I cry a lot over how much I miss him but I hope he’s resting easy now….
I can’t wait to get his proper memorial stone…. 🙁
Peanut I miss you so much 🙁
The house isn’t the same without you
Hi Abigail. My dearest cat Tigresa died 3/22/22. It was a car 🙁
She was a Tortoise Shell cat. She was very affectionate and loving. I made her a wooden box and buried her in my backyard in NYC. She weighed about 14lbs. How long do you think until she decomposes? What if I remove her from the box and put her in a wrapped blanket an bury her? Please advise.
Henry
Sorry to hear this. But yes it is better to bury your cat before she starts decomposing. Decomposing starts taking place in few days or after few weeks, depending on the weather.
Hello,
Thank you for the informative article and resources.
I adopted 2 fur brothers almost 20 years ago and they have been wonderful additions to my life. They bless me in ways I cannot even imagine 🙂
Unfortunately one of them had to be put down about 8 years ago due to kidney failure and I buried him in my backyard. Now I’d like to respectfully work in that area of the yard and I don’t know where to begin. If you have any advice or tips on how to do this (both physically and emotionally) please let me know.
Thank you!
I can understand that this situation is emotionally draining you out. However, your cat’s body does not exist anymore. All you’ll see is its leftover bones and nails.
Gently remove them from the ground if you are very much emotionally surcharged and then continue with your work.
hello,
my childhood cat passed early april of 2016. we buried her in a shoebox in the back yard the next morning. we live in WI, and sadly we are moving. i just want to know if you think she would be decomposed enough to safely dig up and move with us… i just cant think about leaving her here without breaking down.
6 years have passed since you buried your cat. It is okay to dig her up now and carry it with you wherever you are traveling.
This has been haunting me for months. Perhaps you have some insight.
We left for the weekend over Christmas (gone 72 hours… Ya know Lots food/water boxes never been an issue, but clearly will never do it again ) . Cats had plenty of food/water. When we returned the 9yr old no documented health issues had passed.
By my guess she was gone probably 24 hours. She was full rigor.
Clearly the whole situation was hard and I’ve kicked myself countless times.
But what’s really haunting me is when we cleaned up my daughter said the side she was laying on was “covered with white stuff”
I couldn’t bring myself to look. We just bagged her and took her in for cremation.
Any idea what the white stuff could have been? I wondered if it maybe had to do with her bladder releasing and laying in a puddle.
I’m sorry for your loss and for the traumatic experience you and your family went through. It’s understandable that you are still feeling the effects of this difficult situation.
Regarding the white substance that your daughter mentioned, it’s possible that it could have been related to the release of bodily fluids from your cat after death. This can sometimes happen as a result of the natural process of decomposition.
It’s important to note that I am not a veterinarian or medical professional, so I cannot say for certain what the substance was. However, if you have any concerns or lingering questions about the substance, I would recommend reaching out to a veterinarian or animal control agency for more information. They may be able to provide you with additional guidance and support.
Take care and I hope that you are able to find some comfort and peace as you process this difficult experience.
Thank you for your information. My cat was rescue, she was only 8 months. I had her for two months, so heartbroken. I buried her in my garden, it’s cold night time around 0 degrees and warmer during the day. I want to plant flowers on her grave when spring comes.
I’m sorry for your loss. Losing a pet can be very difficult and it’s understandable that you want to memorialize your rescue cat by planting flowers on her grave.
Regarding decomposition, it’s important to keep in mind that the process can vary based on a number of factors, such as the location of the burial site, the type of soil, and the climate conditions. In cold conditions like the ones you described, decomposition can be slowed down, but it will still occur over time.
Take care and I hope that you find comfort and peace during this difficult time.
Hi, my baby passed away in my arms last week due to health condition (heart failure, flooded lung, partial paralysis & respiratory issue). He was almost 4 years old but pretty small & at his last stage of life, he became so skinny. I chose to buried him but the depth is not that deep maybe around 1 foot. Will it decomposes alright and will it still give odours due to shallow depth? I believe its a acidic soil but near to the rock and have plenty roots (trees & plants).
I’m truly sorry to hear about the loss of your baby. Losing a loved one, especially a little one, can be incredibly difficult and heartbreaking. Please accept my deepest condolences.
Regarding your question about the burial, I understand your concerns about the depth and potential decomposition issues. While I’m not an expert in this field, I can provide some general information that might help.
When it comes to burial, deeper depths are usually recommended to ensure proper decomposition and minimize any potential odors. Shallow burials may not provide enough depth for the natural decomposition process to occur effectively. Additionally, factors such as soil composition, temperature, and moisture levels can influence decomposition as well.
Considering the factors you mentioned, such as acidic soil, proximity to rocks, and the presence of trees and plants with plenty of roots, it’s possible that the decomposition process could be influenced by these environmental conditions. However, it’s challenging to determine the exact outcome without a thorough understanding of the specific soil composition and environmental factors in your area.
To address your concerns and ensure a respectful resting place for your beloved baby, I would suggest consulting with a local expert, such as a veterinarian or a professional in the field of burial and pet aftercare. They would have more specialized knowledge and can provide guidance based on the specific conditions in your area.
Once again, I want to express my heartfelt sympathies for your loss. It’s important to remember that grieving is a personal journey, and everyone copes in their own way. If you feel the need to talk or share more about your experience, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Wishing you strength and healing during this difficult time.
Thank you for your prompt informative reply. I hope it will be alright based on the temperature, condition & location despite the depth.
Thank you so much for you kind words, really appreciate it. I’m still trying to accept the reality & pull myself together. It’s so hard as I kept calling & looking for him, hopefully things will get better very soon. Our bond was incredible as he is my emotional support and the one keep me going, due to his condition making him super clingy, dependant but really sweet and spoiled little bubba.
Thank you again for being for understanding & kind xx
I had a cat buried slightly under the soil like 3 years back and was wondering if it’s at a good stage to dig up and take his bones. it was under a patch of clovers still present afterwards in the woods, we usually have snow for 1-2 months and a high temperature of 80-100 f for around 3 months with an average of 50-70 f the rest of the time and he was about 20lbs and healthy for his size, but I don’t remember how he was positioned when we buried him. If you don’t think Hes good to take his bones yet, how long until then?
I’m sorry for your loss. However, it is not advisable to dig up your cat’s remains for the purpose of taking its bones. It is important to let the remains rest in peace and allow nature to take its course. Additionally, it is illegal to disturb human or animal remains in many areas without proper authorization. Please consider honoring your cat’s memory in other ways that do not involve disturbing their remains.