What to Do with a Dead Cat in New Zealand – A Pet Owner’s Guide
What to Do with a Dead Cat in New Zealand: A Guide for Pet Owners
Losing a beloved pet is never easy, and knowing what to do next can be overwhelming. If you’re in New Zealand and have recently lost your cat, this guide will help you navigate the process with respect and care.
What To Do With A Dead Cat: Immediate Steps After Your Cat’s Passing
-
Take a Moment – It’s natural to feel grief, so give yourself time to process your emotions.
-
Handle Your Cat's Body with Care – If you need to move your cat, wear gloves and use a towel or blanket to wrap the body gently.
-
Keep the Body Cool – If you need time to decide on the next steps, place your cat in a cool area or wrap it in a towel and store it in a container in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
1. Confirming the Passing
When you suspect that your cat has passed away, it’s essential to confirm the passing to ensure that you’re not mistakenly assuming the worst. Here are some steps to follow:
-
Check for Breathing: Gently place your hand on your cat’s chest to feel for any movement or breathing. This can help you determine if your cat is still alive.
-
Check for a Heartbeat: Place your ear on your cat’s chest to listen for a heartbeat. Sometimes, a faint heartbeat can be detected even if the cat appears unresponsive.
-
Check for Responsiveness: Gently touch your cat’s eyes or nose to see if they respond. Lack of response can be an indicator that your cat has passed away.
-
Check for Stiffness: If your cat’s body is stiff and rigid, it may be a sign that they have passed away. This condition, known as rigor mortis, typically sets in a few hours after death.
If you’re still unsure, it’s always best to consult with a veterinarian to confirm the passing. They can provide professional guidance and support during this difficult time.
2. Notifying Others
Notifying others about the passing of your cat can be a difficult task, but it’s essential to inform those who need to know. Here are some steps to follow:
-
Notify Your Veterinarian: Let your veterinarian know about the passing of your cat, especially if they were treating your cat for a medical condition. They can offer support and advice on how to proceed with your cat’s remains.
-
Notify Your Family and Friends: Inform your family and friends about the passing of your cat, especially if they were close to your pet. Sharing your loss with loved ones can provide emotional support.
-
Notify Your Local Animal Control: If your cat was a stray or feral cat, notify your local animal control agency to report the passing. This is important for keeping records of deceased animals and ensuring proper handling of the remains.
Options for Dealing with a Deceased Cat's Remains in New Zealand
1. Home Burial
Many pet owners choose to bury their cat at home. Before doing so, consider the following:
-
Ensure you have permission to bury a deceased pet on your property.
-
Dig a hole at least 1 metre deep to prevent scavengers from disturbing the site.
-
Choose a biodegradable casket or wrap your cat in a natural fabric.
-
Mark the burial site with a plant, plaque, or another meaningful object.
2. Pet Cremation Services and Pet Cemetery
If you prefer cremation, there are several pet crematoriums across New Zealand that offer individual or communal cremation services. When handling the remains of deceased pets, it is important to choose a reputable provider to ensure respectful treatment. Some reputable providers include:
-
Pet Farewells (Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch)
-
Pet Angel Funerals
-
Beyond the Rainbow Pet Cremations
You can choose to receive your pet’s ashes in a keepsake urn or scatter them in a meaningful place.
3. Contact Your Local Vet
Your veterinarian can assist with handling your pet’s remains. They may offer cremation services or provide guidance on local disposal regulations. Additionally, a local veterinary clinic can assist with arranging proper handling, whether through cremation, burial, or other means, ensuring humane and legal disposal methods.
4. Council Disposal Services
Some local councils in New Zealand provide pet disposal services. Check with your local council to see if they offer collection or drop-off services. They can also assist with the disposal of a deceased stray cat, ensuring that local regulations are followed for proper handling of the remains.
Practical Considerations
When dealing with the passing of a cat, there are several practical considerations to keep in mind. Here are some things to consider:
-
Disposal of the Cat’s Body: You’ll need to decide how to dispose of your cat’s body, whether it’s through cremation, burial, or another method. Options include home burial, pet cremation services, or council disposal services.
-
Notification of Pet Insurance: If you have pet insurance, you’ll need to notify the insurance company about the passing of your cat. This may involve submitting a claim or canceling the policy.
-
Cancellation of Veterinary Appointments: If your cat had upcoming veterinary appointments, you’ll need to cancel them. This can also be an opportunity to inform the clinic about your loss and seek any additional support they may offer.
Honouring Your Cat’s Memory
Losing a pet is like losing a family member, and many people find comfort in memorialising their cat. Creating a memorial can provide closure and comfort to a cat's owner. Consider:
-
Creating a small memorial in your garden.
-
Keeping a paw print or fur clipping.
-
Donating to an animal charity in your cat’s name.
-
Writing a tribute or creating a photo album.
-
Storing ashes in a beautiful cat urn.
-
Wearing cat cremation jewellery as a keepsake.
Dealing with Grief
It’s important to allow yourself to grieve. Losing a pet cat can be an emotionally devastating experience, and seeking support is crucial. Reach out to pet loss support groups, friends, or family who understand your loss. Organisations like SPCA New Zealand and Pet Refuge NZ may also provide support resources.
Aftercare and Support
Losing a pet can be a difficult and emotional experience, and it’s essential to take care of yourself during this time. Here are some things to consider:
-
Seek Support from Friends and Family: Reach out to friends and family members for emotional support and comfort. Sharing your feelings with those who understand your loss can be very healing.
-
Consider Counseling: If you’re struggling to cope with the loss of your cat, consider seeking counseling or therapy. Professional support can help you navigate your grief and find ways to cope.
-
Take Care of Your Physical Health: Make sure to take care of your physical health by getting enough rest, eating well, and exercising regularly. Grieving can take a toll on your body, so it’s important to maintain your well-being.
By addressing both the practical and emotional aspects of losing a cat, you can navigate this challenging time with dignity and care. Remember, it’s okay to grieve and seek support as you honor the memory of your beloved pet.
Final Thoughts
Losing a cat is heartbreaking, but knowing your options can help you navigate this difficult time with dignity and care. Whether you choose burial, cremation, or another method, honouring your pet’s memory can bring comfort in the grieving process. Understanding how your pet's remains should be handled according to local regulations is crucial to ensure compliance and safety.
If you’re unsure about local regulations, check with your vet or council for guidance. Most importantly, take the time to remember the joy your cat brought into your life.

About the Author: Sarah Whitmore
Memorial Consultant & Cremation Specialist
With over 12 years of experience in the funeral and memorial industry, Sarah Whitmore has guided countless families in choosing the perfect urn to honor their loved ones. She specializes in cremation traditions, personalized memorialization, and grief support.
Her compassionate approach ensures every family makes informed decisions during difficult times.