How much does it cost to euthanize a cat?

  • Posted on September 4, 2025
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As a euthanasia expert for cats in Tucson, a frequent question I am asked is “How much will it cost to euthanize my cat?”. 

There are several factors that affect the cost. Several factors affect the pricing.

Four key factors affecting cost to euthanize a cat are the following:

  • Using a veterinary corporate franchise vs a locally owned veterinarian
  • Location of your home
  • Week vs weekend appointments
  • Which cremation package you select

I will break down each of these below so you have a handy list you can refer to as you think through your decision.

Regarding using a corporate franchise based vet versus a locally owned euthanasia veterinary business, it is important for you to know that the world of veterinary medicine is becoming increasingly franchise based. I discuss this is more detail on my website page where I clearly distinguish the differences between these two types of veterinary service providers. This spawning corporate based movement has led to a massive increase in costs to pet parents. Veterinarians working for corporations can certainly do quality work. However, the vast majority of time corporate based pricing is significantly higher than what is charged by the non franchise based animal doctor. This is because part of the franchise based service goes to the centralized corporation. In contrast, as a local owner of an at-home euthanasia private practice, I am typically able to charge much less. Simultaneously, I am able to maintain the highest level of quality.  

Regarding location, you can either have your pet euthanized at a veterinary clinic or by using a house call veterinarian who travels to your home. In-home euthanasia can be more expensive than having your pet euthanized at a stationary clinic. However, many owners prefer the private, peaceful, and much more personalized home based euthanasia because that is where their pet feels the most comfortable.

Regarding week versus weekend, if you are using an at-home euthanasia veterinarian, they will sometimes charge more for weekend appointments. However, I do not charge any additional fees for weekend appointments. Click here if you want to see what my veterinary fees are so you can get an idea of what a high quality, seasoned and local veterinarian charges.

Regarding cremation packages, there are several options. A communal cremation is where your pet will be cremated alongside other pets. With this option no ashes are returned to the owner, but you are able to still purchase a clay paw print from the crematorium. Here is a quick overview of my cremation options.

A second option is where your pet will be cremated in a distinguishable space within a larger crematorium setting. In this instance, there will be a physical barrier between your pet and the other pets being cremated. This prevents your pets’ remains from being mixed with other animals. You will then be able to receive the ashes for your pet. Ashes will be returned in a cedar box and a clay paw print will be included with the return.  

A third option is a completely private cremation where your pet will be cremated by themselves in the crematorium. 

Now that I have clarified factors that can affect pricing, here is my current list of pricing as of July 2025:

In home euthanasia: $325.00. Travel time increases this price and is variable depending on driving distance.

Communal cremation: $100.00.

Communal cremation with clay paw print: $165.00.

Individual cremation (partitioned cremation): $250.00. This includes ashes being returned in a cedar box and a clay paw print.

Completely private cremation: $300.00. This includes ashes being returned in a cedar box and a clay paw print. 

Aftercare considerations

As a veterinary house call expert for pet euthanasia in Tucson, I know it is important that you use the veterinarian who uses a reliable and trusted crematorium. I have used the same crematorium called Lasting Paws for over 15 years. In fact, I personally know the driver who picks up and delivers for me. I am focused on maintaining the highest quality control possible.

If you are in difficult financial circumstances, I feel it is important for you to be educated about your options to save money. There are several local aftercare companies here in Tucson, AZ that I recommend. They are as follows: The Pet Cemetery of Tucson (520.722.8434), Family Pet Services (520.358.9469) and Cholla Aquamation (520.349.9154).

I hope this blog has been helpful to you. I look forward to the opportunity to answer any other questions you might have. Just remember, you can always refer to my quality of life checklist if you are unsure if now is the right time for a humane euthanasia. Please feel free to visit my website which has a lot of great information.

If the time comes to humanely euthanize your pet, and you do not know how to find the best in home in home pet euthanasia veterinarian, here is a list of 7 questions to ask.

3 Ways I'm DifferentDr. Maria vs. Franchise VetsPricing & PaymentPet Quality of Life ChecklistWhat to ExpectGrief Support
"I can’t begin to say enough nice things about Dr. Miller, her demeanor and her professionalism. My beloved cat Van was in the final stages of debilitating malignant thyroid tumors that left him unable to eat and drink in his final days. Dr. Miller’s service of coming to the house to help Van peacefully pass was a relief. Dr. Miller’s comforting actions with Van and her reassurances to me helped make what was already a horrific experience as bearable as possible under the circumstances."
Norris A.
"Dear Dr. Miller, Robbie and I want to thank you for all you kind and gentle care of Chessie, even though you didn’t know her. We feel like you were a special angel sent to make this time a little easier. I wish we had known you longer. Thank you again and God Bless you."
Robbie and Judy G.
"Dear Dr. Miller, Thank you so much for your responsiveness, follow-up and great care of the pooches. We all appreciate your efforts and are lucky to have found you! Its so convenient to have you come to the house and it’s a big stress reliever for the dogs too. Thanks again!!"
Lauri and Peter F.
"Dear Dr. Miller Words cannot express how I feel towards the work that you do. I cannot begin to thank you for helping me through such a trying time. Your love and support made it easier to accept the loss of my dog. You truly are a wonderful and caring person. Thank you for making me feel like a friend."
Nancy M.
"Dr. Maria Miller, a most gentle and caring Veterinarian, provided us with the strength needed when we had to put our Dalmatian, Domino to sleep. He had reached the fullness of his time. His age coupled with his ailments certainly needed a peaceful relief and a quiet rest. Thank you Dr. Miller."
Jim Smith
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Dr. Maria's Bio

Dr. Maria Miller (DVM), known as “Dr. Maria” by her cherished clients, has practiced veterinary medicine for over 30 years. She is the owner and sole practitioner for Vetcalls, one of the most highly ranked veterinary practices in Arizona given its 5.0 google review rating. She is a visionary who recognized the need for in-home veterinary care back in 2000. A multitude of veterinarians followed Dr Maria’s lead over the next 25 years. Featured by numerous media outlets, award winning Tampa news anchor Russell Rhodes did a day-in-the-life segment on Dr. Maria when she practiced in Tampa, FL. She has co-authored several peer-reviewed scientific articles, and completed prestigious internships at the National Institute of Health (NIH) in Washington D.C., and at Angell Memorial Hospital in Boston. Dr. Maria graduated from the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine. A native Tucsonan, she has been happily married for 27 years with two wonderful children. Her home is always bustling with her collection of furry loved ones.