Cat Cremation: A Guide for Cat Owners
Everything cat owners need to know about cremation options, costs, and making decisions during a difficult time.
My cat Whiskers was 18 when she passed. She had been with me through college, three apartments, two cities, and a marriage. When she died quietly in her favorite sunny spot, I realized I had no idea what came next. This guide is what I learned.
What Are Your Options for Cat Cremation?
Cats are considered small pets for cremation purposes, which means costs are on the lower end compared to dogs. You have three main choices:
Private cremation means your cat is cremated alone in the chamber. You receive all of their ashes back. This typically costs $100-200 for a cat.
Communal cremation means your cat is cremated with other pets. Ashes are not returned to you—they are usually scattered in a memorial garden. This costs $40-80.
Partitioned cremation places your cat in the chamber with others but separated by dividers. You receive ashes back, though slight mixing is possible. This runs $75-150.
How Much Ash Will You Receive?
Cats typically yield about 1/2 to 1 cup of ashes, depending on their size. A small cat under 8 pounds might produce less; a large Maine Coon could produce more.
This matters when choosing an urn. Many people overestimate how much space they need. A small keepsake urn is often sufficient for a cat.
Should You Be Present?
Some crematoriums offer witnessed cremation, where you can be present when your cat enters the chamber. This is not common for cats—it is more often requested for dogs—but it is available at some facilities for an additional $50-100.
Most cat owners I have talked to did not feel the need for this. Cats are private creatures, and many people feel their cat would have preferred a quiet departure without fanfare.
What About Indoor vs Outdoor Cats?
If your outdoor cat passed away and you found them, or if they passed at home, you have the same cremation options. The main consideration is timing. In warm weather, you should arrange pickup or transport within 24 hours. In cooler weather, you have a bit more time.
Keep your cat in a cool location while you make arrangements. A tile floor, basement, or air-conditioned room works. Some people wrap their cat in a favorite blanket.
What If Your Cat Passed at the Vet?
Most veterinary offices work directly with cremation services. They can arrange everything for you, often presenting options before you leave. This is convenient but may cost slightly more than arranging cremation yourself.
If you want to compare prices or choose a specific provider, ask the vet to hold your cat for a day while you make calls. Most will do this at no charge or for a small fee.