Losing your cat is incredibly difficult, so it can be hard to think about practical matters while you’re grieving.
There is no need to do everything at once. Most of these tasks can wait until you feel ready, and if you’re finding them overwhelming, don’t hesitate to ask a family member or friend to help.
This page outlines some of the practical steps you may need to take after your cat has passed away, helping to ensure their records are updated and preventing unexpected reminders that may be upsetting in the weeks and months ahead.
On this page
If your cat passed away at your usual veterinary practice, they usually update their records for you.
However, if your cat died at an emergency or out-of-hours veterinary clinic or at home, it’s a good idea to let your own vet know. This allows them to update your cat’s medical records and stop future reminders for vaccinations, health checks or preventative treatments as receiving these reminders after your cat has died can be upsetting.
If your cat was microchipped, it’s important to let your microchip database provider know that they have passed away.
Keeping your cat’s microchip information up to date ensures the database remains accurate and helps prevent unnecessary records remaining active.
Depending on which database your cat is registered with, you may need to contact:
If you’re unsure where your cat’s microchip is registered, you can check via www.europetnet.org
If you adopted your cat from an animal rescue or rehoming organisation, it’s thoughtful to let them know that your cat has passed away.
Updating their records helps prevent future correspondence about your cat and allows the organisation to know that one of their former residents enjoyed a loving home throughout their life.
If your cat was covered by pet insurance or enrolled in a preventative healthcare plan, contact the provider to let them know they have passed away.
They can advise you about closing the policy and whether there are any final claims or arrangements that need to be made.
You may also wish to update or cancel any other services linked to your cat, such as:
This can help prevent unexpected emails, appointment reminders or renewal notices in the future.
There is no deadline for completing these practical tasks.
If making phone calls or responding to emails feels too difficult right now, it’s okay to wait a little while or ask someone you trust to help.
Most veterinary practices, charities and organisations understand how emotional this time can be and will handle your request with kindness and compassion.
Most importantly, remember to be gentle with yourself. Looking after your own wellbeing is every bit as important as taking care of the practical details.
One small step at a time is enough.
