World's oldest cats

[Catlady]

Yes, you did have to euthanize her, but you did not put her to sleep. When we sleep, we wake up, Death is death, even for a pet. I also think it is not in a child's best interest to use the phrase 'put to sleep' as it can (and has) instilled fear about going to sleep. A euphemism only covers the unpleasant fact that we can't hide from. It's not truth and it makes nothing better.

Well, it's a common expression. But, you're right Schtickler, it's not the "right" expression. Just like telling a child their pet ''ran away'', instead of telling them the pet died. The child right away will think the pet did not love them because it ran away from them, and they feel betrayed.

 

[Pepper]

When my son was real little, he asked how old are people when they die. My mother, at the time, was younger than I am now, but I didn't want to scare him so I said "300."