Cat Cremation or Burial
One day your cat will pass away and although this is painful and very emotional you have to decide on your cat’s cremation or burial, you will need to learn about the law in the country you live in.
In Spain for instance, each municipality regulates the handling of dead animals. There are strict laws to avoid contamination of the earth, water, people and animals.
It is advisable to contact the municipal authority, to establish the legal guidelines.
Some communities will permit burial if the animal is free of contagious disease, and euthanasia has not been involved.
Cat Cremation or Burial
Cremation
Cremation can be done individually or in groups. A veterinarian can make these arrangements, for a fee. The fee may be covered by the insurance.
It may be possible to deliver an urn with the remains of the pet. The conservation of your cat’s ashes in your home will enshrine the memories.
Some funeral companies offer a funeral home service to collect the pet and enable you to pay the last respects, before incineration. It may be possible for a veterinarian to euthanise the animal at home in familiar surroundings, to avoid moving it in a stressful situation.
Other options
Some funeral directors specialise in animals. They provide a coffin, transportation, and burial with a tomb and a small ceremony.
It may be possible to donate the body to veterinary research. Some veterinarians advance therapies and treatments through this study.
Cemeteries
Animal cemeteries offer safe burials and cremation, and the possibility to visit and pay respects to your beloved pet.
There are individual graves with plaques, inscriptions and photographs.
Some major cities have animal cemeteries:
Municipal Incineration
Some municipalities provide for the removal of dead animals, with collective incineration. It will not be possible to deliver the ashes. This service is either free or at a low cost.
Burial
If the burial is legally permitted, the recommendations are:
The body should be covered with quicklime before being buried. Quicklime enables hygienic natural breakdown and reduces odour. It can be purchased in DIY stores (Leroy Merlin, Castorama, etc.) or from building suppliers.
Use cardboard or a wooden box. Do not use non-biodegradable fabrics.
You could place a favourite toy in the same container.
After placing the body inside, tie a rope around to keep the box closed.
Place a weight on top to prevent other animals from digging.
Commemorative Plaques and Tombstones
Tombstones can be bought online and customized with the cat’s name and other details, such as the date of birth and death.
You can gather stones and rocks and stack them near the tomb. If you think it’s important to have your cat’s name, you can paint it on a large stone.
If your cat loved any particular type of plant, consider placing one on his grave. You can also plant something bigger, like a tree.
It is extremely painful to lose a beloved companion. But sometimes, holding a funeral and burial can help you with the grieving process, and close that chapter of your life.
A specialist pet funeral company will offer the utmost respect and care possible:
FAQ Cat Cremation or Burial
u003cstrongu003eWhat are the different options for cat cremation or burial?u003c/strongu003e
There are several options available for cat cremation or burial, including individual cremation, group cremation, municipal incineration, and burial in a pet cemetery. Each option has its own set of pros and cons, so it’s important to carefully consider your needs and preferences before making a final decision.
u003cstrongu003eWhat are the benefits of individual cat cremation?u003c/strongu003e
Individual cat cremation can provide several benefits, including allowing you to hold a private funeral or memorial service for your pet and providing more control over the ashes that are returned to you. This type of cremation is typically more expensive than group cremation, but it may be worth the extra cost if you feel it would provide some measure of comfort during your time of grief.
u003cstrongu003eWhat are the benefits of group cat cremation?u003c/strongu003e
Group cat cremation is typically less expensive than individual cremation, and it also offers the benefit of rocketing your pet’s ashes with those of other animals. This can provide a sense of comfort and community for some pet owners who choose this option.
u003cstrongu003eWhat are the benefits of municipal incineration?u003c/strongu003e
Municipal incineration is often the most affordable option for disposing of a deceased pet, and it also offers the potential to allow you to bring other family members or friends to the cremation. This can help provide a sense of closure and community during a difficult time. However, it is important to note that group cremations are generally not private and often involve multiple pets at once.
u003cstrongu003eAre there any alternatives to cat cremation or burial?u003c/strongu003e
While cremation and burial are the most common options for disposing of a deceased pet, there are some alternative choices available. These include taxidermy, preserved pets, and freeze-drying. Each option has its own set of pros and cons, so it’s important to carefully consider your needs and preferences before making a final decision.
