Losing your beloved cat is a heartbreaking experience that’s hard to see beyond saying goodbye. Deciding how to rest your pet when you’re upset can be overwhelming. Sometimes it’s easier to consider your options before the cat passes away, taking some of the decision-making burden off when the time comes.
quick overview
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Many options are available for disposing of pet remains, including cremation and burial.
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Many veterinary clinics can handle the entire cremation process for you from start to finish.
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Depending on the option you choose, a private cremation can cost between $150 and $500, while a pet burial can be much more expensive.
Cremation is a popular option in the United States, but understanding the pricing system can be a bit confusing. Crematoria may quote the cremation price separately from the cost of the urn. There may be other hidden costs that you haven’t considered.
In the United States, cat cremations typically cost between $100 and $200. But that’s just the private cremation itself, and the total cost could be higher. Let’s consider what to expect during the cremation process, and what additional costs and practicalities you should plan for.
Find a crematorium
Finding a crematorium is relatively easy if your veterinary practice has a preferred pet funeral home. If this is the case, they should be able to handle all the administration, transportation and cremation for a one-time fee.
They can also help you with any questions or concerns you may have, which can take a lot of stress away. Alternatively, you can find a pet crematorium by searching online or through a recommendation from a friend. Your local animal shelter can also advise you if you prefer to make your own arrangements.
The International Association of Pet Graveyards and Crematoria is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to raising industry standards worldwide. They offer an authentication system and a database where you can search for member crematoria near you.
Also read: How to Cope with Losing a Cat
Choose the cremation method that suits you
There are several options for the care of a cat after death. Some people choose a full funeral (yes, it is possible; contact your crematorium directly), but many prefer to have their cat cremated. When returning a pet’s cremated remains, cremation options include group or private cremation.
Ashes can be returned in a sealed coffin or figurine, or in a container that can be used for burial or dispersal at home. Each crematorium service has its own range of tasteful urns to choose from and to suit every situation.
You need to consider whether to visit gravestones, keep your cat’s ashes somewhere safe and close to you, or scatter them in some of their favorite spots. Another lovely option is to scatter them in pots and plant a rose or memorial tree.
Solve hidden extra problems
If your veterinarian makes arrangements for you, discuss the cost and any additional costs with them. If you are dealing directly with the crematorium, please consider the following costs:
- The cost of a private cremation
- The cost of picking up/delivering your pet to the crematorium
- Additional fees apply if you wish to witness the cremation
- Cost of an urn or coffin
- Shipping fee back to you
- Miscellaneous (souvenirs, etc.)
With all these additional costs, a private cremation can cost anywhere from $150 to $500. Possibly a lot more if you decide to have a funeral and a pet funeral.
Sometimes, funding for a private cremation cannot be found, or you may decide that keeping your pet’s ashes is not for you. In such cases, public (group) cremation may be an option. The average cost of a mass cremation is between $30 and $100.
After a mass cremation, the ashes may be scattered in the crematorium’s garden of remembrance, which pet parents can visit. Be sure to discuss this process with your personal crematorium and check for specific visiting times.
Individual cremations are also available, where the pets are cremated at the same time but in a grid pattern and your cat’s ashes are returned to you. This may be slightly less than the cost of a private cremation where your pet is cremated alone.
Most crematoria will provide additional keepsakes that are unique reminders of your pet and provide comfort in times of grief. These include jewelry containing ashes, paw prints, candlesticks and fur clippings, just to name a few.
If you have your cat’s ashes returned to you, there are many online services that can help you with this in the future. However, you need to notify the crematorium or your veterinarian immediately if you want clipped paw prints.
Also read: What to do if your cat gets hit by a car: A step-by-step guide
coping to say goodbye
Grief doesn’t just happen after your pet dies. Anticipated grief can start before your pet dies, and can be intense and depressing. This is especially true if you are planning to book euthanasia for your cat because the cat’s quality of life is deteriorating. Before saying goodbye, focus on spending some special time with your cat.
Letting your friends and family know that you need their understanding and support can be of great help during this difficult time. Also, some people feel comfortable planning ahead to take the stress out of reality after a pet passes away. Some veterinarians and crematoria offer farewell planning services, which give you the opportunity to discuss your wishes in advance.
If you need a quiet place to remember your cat, many crematoria also provide access to the grounds. They may also provide memorial services and pet tributes, such as statues and gravestones, for individual pets. Plus, memorial books and online tributes can be a very touching way to remember the incredible connection you share with your cat.
Grief can feel lonely and overwhelming at times. If you are struggling with the loss of a pet, online pet bereavement services can support you. As the grief wears off, you may find solace in the peaceful passing of your pet and the many fond memories you had together.
Also read: AZ of Cat Facts and Statistics
frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to cremate a cat in the UK?
Prices for pet crematorium services in the UK will vary depending on which veterinary clinic you use. Depending on the urn or coffin chosen, personal cat cremations typically cost £150-£300. This fee may not include transportation and souvenirs if you make your own arrangements.
There may be options for ceremonies, cremation viewing, or burial, which will cost more. You should discuss these options directly with the crematorium. A mass cremation can cost between £60 and £100.
How many ashes does a cat have?
If your cat was cremated, this produced a small amount of ashes, which may come in a small bag that you can hold in the palm of your open hand. This makes about two to three cups and is perfect for a small pet urn or coffin. Still, it can be spread out over multiple locations or shared with family members if you prefer.
How long does it take to cremate a cat?
Cremation times may vary, and generally the larger the pet, the longer the cremation time. Cat cremations usually take 30 minutes to an hour, but in some cases it may take more time. Cremation chambers must reach extremely high temperatures for extended periods of time to be effective. If you wish to attend your pet’s cremation, please discuss this with the crematorium to see if this is possible.
view resources
https://cremationinstitute.com/pet-cremation/
https://perfectmemorials.com/guides/understanding-pet-cremation-costs/
https://www.bluecross.org.uk/pet-loss
https://www.cremationresource.org/pets/how-much-does-cat-cremation-cost.html
https://www.rainbowsbridge.com/grief_support_center/grief_support_home.htm
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