I am so sorry you are going through a heartwrenching time, and you will soon have to face that decision we all dread. But, the alternative can be worse since few cats do slip away quickly and easily.

You will need to plan a little in advance because you will want your vet to give you plenty of time. After the sedative, the cat becomes very, very relaxed and this is the time when you can hold them in your arms, knowing they feel no pain or anxiety, and talk to them all you want - and sob your socks off. Some cats knead you and purr, some simply lay in your arms and gaze at you sleepily, and some slip into sleep very quickly. I always ask for several minutes with them while they are sedated because it makes me more prepared for the next step.

I've found that when my cats have started sitting in the bathroom by the loo, their time is very short. I don't know if it's the cooler floor or what, but some cats will do that even in cold weather. Yes, it is hard to see them weak but still wanting to play. Cats are notorious for making you believe they are very much alive even when they have a very short time to live. They just don't give up, making it extremely hard for us to give up for them.