My cat passed on a Friday night. The cremation service was closed until Monday. I panicked—what was I supposed to do for two days? The internet was full of clinical advice but nothing that actually helped me in that moment.
Here's the practical guidance I wish I'd had.
How long can I wait before cremation?
There's no legal deadline for pet cremation in most areas. The practical timeline depends on how you store your pet:
**At room temperature:** 4-6 hours in warm weather, up to 12 hours in cool conditions**In a cool room (60-65°F):** 24-36 hours**With proper cooling:** 2-3 days**Professional cold storage:** A week or moreIf you need more than 24 hours, some form of cooling is strongly recommended.
Immediate steps after your pet passes
Within the first few hours:
**Position your pet comfortably** (before rigor mortis sets in, usually 1-2 hours)**Place them on a waterproof surface** (puppy pads, plastic sheet, or trash bag)**Cover with a light blanket or towel****Move to the coolest area of your home**Don't worry if you couldn't do these things immediately. Your pet is at peace, and you're doing your best.
Cooling options at home
**The coolest room method:**
Find the coldest room in your house (basement, garage in winter, air-conditioned room)Keep blinds closed and doors shutPlace a fan nearby to circulate cool airThis works for 24-36 hours in most conditions**The ice pack method:**
Place frozen ice packs or bags of ice around (not directly on) your petWrap ice in towels to prevent direct contactReplace ice as it meltsThis can extend the time to 2-3 days**What about the refrigerator or freezer?**
**Refrigerator:** Not recommended—too small for most pets and unsanitary for food storage**Freezer:** Generally not recommended—freezing can complicate the cremation process and some facilities charge extra for frozen remainsWhat to expect physically
This is hard to read, but knowing what's normal can prevent panic:
**Normal:**
Fluids may release from the mouth, nose, or other areasThe body will stiffen (rigor mortis) within 1-3 hours, then relax again after 24-48 hoursEyes may remain partially openThe body may shift or appear to move slightly as muscles relax**Signs you need to act quickly:**
Strong odor developingVisible changes in appearanceWarm temperatures accelerating decompositionIf any of these occur, contact a cremation service immediately—many offer emergency pickup.
Professional storage options
If you need more than 2-3 days:
**Veterinary clinic:** Many vets offer temporary cold storage. Call and ask—some provide this free for clients, others charge $25-$75.
**Cremation service:** Most have refrigerated storage. They can pick up your pet and hold them until you're ready to decide on services.
**Pet funeral home:** If your area has one, they typically offer extended storage.
Emotional considerations
Keeping your pet at home for a day or two isn't morbid. Many people need this time to:
Say goodbye properlyWait for family members to arriveMake cremation arrangements without rushingSimply process what happenedTake the time you need. There's no "right" timeline for grief.
If you're waiting for family
If you need to wait for a family member to say goodbye:
Video calls are okay if someone can't be there in personIt's okay to proceed without everyone present if logistics don't allowYou can hold a memorial later, separate from the cremationConsider taking a paw print or fur clipping for those who can't be thereWhen to call for help
Call a cremation service or vet if:
You can't keep your pet cool enoughIt's been more than 48 hoursYou notice concerning changesYou simply feel overwhelmed and need someone to take overThere's no shame in asking for help. These services handle this every day with compassion.
Your next steps
Move your pet to the coolest area of your homePlace on waterproof protection with a blanket on topFor 24+ hours, use ice packs wrapped in towelsContact cremation services to understand their timelineAsk about pickup service if you need helpDon't freeze your pet unless specifically advised by the cremation serviceTake the time you need—but don't hesitate to ask for help