Feline Rescue's Updated Euthanasia Policy FAQ
General Questions
Q: What is Feline Rescue’s policy on euthanasia?
A: We are committed to saving and rehabilitating as many cats as possible. However, euthanasia is considered in rare cases when a cat is:
1. Suffering from an untreatable medical condition that causes pain or distress with no humane treatment options.
2. Exhibiting severe, unmanageable behavioral challenges that pose a significant safety risk and cannot be rehabilitated or placed safely in a home, foster, or sanctuary.
These decisions are made with great care, always in consultation with veterinary professionals and leadership staff.
Misconceptions About No-Kill
Q: Is Feline Rescue a no-kill shelter?
A: We no longer use the term “no-kill” because it can be misleading. No-kill often implies that an organization never euthanizes under any circumstances, which is not accurate or responsible. Instead, we emphasize our commitment to lifesaving by ensuring humane outcomes for all cats in our care.
We do not euthanize for space or time constraints, and we work tirelessly to treat medical conditions, rehabilitate behavioral challenges, and find placement solutions. However, in rare cases, euthanasia is a compassionate decision when a cat is suffering or cannot be safely placed.
Q: Why did Feline Rescue stop using no-kill language?
A: The term “no-kill” can create unrealistic expectations that we will never euthanize, even in cases of severe suffering or danger. We believe in honest, transparent communication about our commitment to saving lives while making humane decisions when absolutely necessary.
We have found that some members of the public misunderstand no-kill to mean that we will take in any cat under any circumstances, even when we do not have the resources to provide appropriate care. Our focus is on ethical and responsible sheltering.
Medical Euthanasia Questions
Q: Who makes the decision to euthanize a cat?
A: Euthanasia decisions are made collaboratively with:
– Licensed veterinarians who assess medical conditions and quality of life.
– Senior staff who review behavioral, medical, and placement options.
We explore all possible alternatives before deciding, and euthanasia is always performed humanely, with respect and dignity.
Q: What steps do you take before euthanasia is considered for a sick cat?
A: Every cat in our care receives comprehensive veterinary treatment and pain management. When facing a serious illness, we evaluate:
– Available treatment options and whether they provide a good quality of life.
– Long-term prognosis and whether the cat can recover or live comfortably.
– Adoption options for cats with chronic conditions.
If no humane options exist and a cat is experiencing ongoing, untreatable suffering, euthanasia may be the most compassionate decision.
Behavioral Euthanasia Questions
Q: What about cats with behavioral challenges?
A: Many cats arrive at Feline Rescue with behavioral concerns, and we are committed to rehabilitation. We work with expert behaviorists and provide:
– Enrichment and training to help cats adjust to home life.
– Foster programs to assess behavior outside the shelter.
– Education for adopters so they understand any boundaries or special needs that may impact long-term placement success.
Euthanasia for behavioral reasons is extremely rare and only considered if a cat poses a severe and ongoing safety risk to people or other animals, despite all rehabilitation efforts.
Q: How do you decide if a cat is too aggressive to be adopted?
A: We assess aggression on a case-by-case basis through:
– Professional behavior evaluations to determine if the aggression is fear- based, situational, or unmanageable.
– Training to help the cat adjust.
– Exploring alternative placements, such as barns or sanctuaries, when possible.
Euthanasia is only considered if a cat’s behavior presents a serious and unmanageable danger and there are no safe placement options.
Public & Owner Surrender Questions
Q: If I bring a cat to Feline Rescue, will you euthanize them?
A: We do not euthanize for space or time. However, surrendering a cat does not guarantee that they will be placed for adoption. If a cat has severe medical or behavioral issues that make placement impossible, we will discuss all available options, including medical treatment, sanctuary placement, and foster care.
Q: I need to surrender my cat. Will you take them?
A: Intake at Feline Rescue is managed carefully to ensure we have the resources to provide proper care. If you need to surrender a cat, we encourage you to:
1. Contact us first so we can discuss your cat’s needs.
2. Explore alternatives, such as veterinary care or behavioral training, before surrendering.
3. Understand that we may not be able to take every cat immediately, as our priority is ensuring that we can provide the best possible care.
If we are unable to take your cat, we will provide resources and referrals to help you find the best possible outcome.
Final Messaging
Q: What should the public know about Feline Rescue’s commitment to cats?
A: Feline Rescue is dedicated to lifesaving and responsible sheltering. We do not euthanize for space or time limits, and we work tirelessly to provide medical care, behavioral support, and placement solutions for every cat. In rare cases, when a cat is suffering or poses a severe safety risk, euthanasia is the most compassionate decision.
Our focus is always on quality of life, ethical decision-making, and providing every cat with the best possible chance of a safe and loving future.
Copyright © 2021 Feline Rescue - All Rights Reserved
Phone: 612-900-2757
Email: info@FelineRescue.org
Address:
593 Fairview Avenue N
St. Paul, MN 55104
St. Paul, MN 55104