What to Do When Your Pet Dies

Start With Your Vet

If your pet has died at home, contact your veterinary practice for advice about what to do next and how to care for their body until arrangements are made. If you are unsure whether your pet has died, or they may still need treatment, seek urgent veterinary help.

You can ask a trusted person to make calls with you or write down the answers. You do not need to manage everything alone.

Ask About Aftercare and Costs

Your vet can explain cremation and burial options. Ask what each service includes, what it costs and whether ashes will be returned. With communal cremation, individual ashes are not normally returned. If you want an individual cremation, ask the provider to explain its process clearly.

For a home burial, check with your vet and local authority that it is appropriate and permitted for your animal and location, and obtain the landowner’s permission where needed. Rules and practical considerations differ, especially for larger animals. Do not assume an option suitable for a cat or dog is suitable for every pet.

If collecting ashes feels difficult, ask whether someone you trust can collect them or whether another arrangement is possible. Ask in advance about any keepsake you would like; none is compulsory.

A Checklist to Work Through Gently

Tick what is relevant. These ticks last while this page stays open; printing gives you a paper copy to keep.

• Speak to the vet and agree the immediate aftercare plan.
• Ask someone for help with calls, transport or company.
• Let the vet know which appointment and routine-care reminders should stop.
• Contact the insurer or care-plan provider and ask about outstanding claims, cancellation and any refund before stopping payments.
• Ask the microchip database provider how to update the pet’s record.
• Cancel food deliveries, grooming, walking, boarding or other recurring bookings when ready.
• Ask the vet how to return or dispose of unused medicines safely.
• Check the needs of any other pets and ask the vet about worrying changes.

Belongings Can Wait

You can keep, move, give away or store things at your own pace. If you are undecided, a labelled box can hold belongings without forcing a final choice. Ask anyone helping you to check before disposing of anything.

Look After Other Pets, Too

Keep familiar care routines where possible. Changes in eating or behaviour can have medical causes as well as follow a loss, so discuss concerning changes with your vet. Avoid assuming an animal simply needs a new companion immediately.

Sources & Further Reading

Written by Vet Reviews using the resources below. General information; for personal healthcare or veterinary decisions, speak to the relevant professional.

• Cats Protection: Aftercare Choices
• Cats Protection: Supporting Surviving Pets

Sources checked on 10 September 2026.