How to Recognize When a Pet Rat Is Near Death

Recognizing Physical Changes in a Dying Rat

Changes in Appearance

Dull Coat and Unkempt Fur

A rat approaching the end of its life often exhibits a coat that loses its natural sheen. The fur becomes noticeably matte, lacking the typical soft luster that indicates good health. This change reflects reduced circulation and the body’s diminished ability to maintain skin and hair condition.

Unkempt fur accompanies the dull coat. The animal may stop grooming, resulting in clumped, tangled, or matted patches. Excessive shedding, visible dirt, or a greasy texture can also appear. These signs suggest that the rat no longer has the energy or instinct to keep its coat clean.

Key observations:

Coat appears flat, color faded, and lacks the usual glossy finish.
Fur is tangled, uneven, or forms small clumps, especially around the head, tail, and hindquarters.
Grooming behavior decreases sharply; the rat spends little time cleaning itself.
Odor may develop due to the accumulation of skin oils and debris.

When these characteristics emerge alongside other decline indicators—such as reduced appetite, lethargy, or abnormal breathing—veterinary consultation is advisable. Early recognition allows owners to provide comfort, pain relief, and appropriate end‑of‑life care.

Sunken Eyes and Pale Mucous Membranes

Changes in eye appearance and mucous membrane coloration serve as immediate signals that a pet rat is experiencing life‑threatening decline.

Sunken eyes present as recessed eyeballs, darkened orbital tissue, and reduced tear production. The condition typically results from severe dehydration, circulatory shock, or organ failure. Observe the depth of the eye socket and the presence of a dull, glassy surface; these factors differentiate normal alert eyes from those indicating critical distress.

Pale mucous membranes appear on the gums, inner eyelids, and nasal passages. Normal tissue exhibits a pink hue due to adequate blood flow; a white, gray, or bluish tint signals anemia, hypoxia, or circulatory collapse. Press gently on the gum; if the area remains pale after release, perfusion is compromised.

When both signs are evident, immediate veterinary intervention is required. Recommended actions include:

Contact a veterinarian without delay.
Provide a warm, quiet environment to reduce stress.
Offer small amounts of water or electrolyte solution if the rat can drink.
Prepare for possible fluid therapy, oxygen supplementation, or emergency diagnostics.

Prompt recognition of these visual cues can prevent irreversible deterioration and improve the likelihood of successful treatment.

Weight Loss and Muscle Atrophy

Weight loss and muscle atrophy are among the most reliable indicators that a pet rat is approaching the end of life. Rapid reduction in body mass, especially when it exceeds 10 % of the animal’s normal weight within a week, signals severe metabolic decline. Visible thinning of the ribs, spine, and hind limbs reflects loss of skeletal muscle, a condition that compromises mobility and respiration.

Key observations include:

Emaciation of the abdomen and tail, with ribs becoming prominent.
Decreased muscle tone in the forelimbs and hindquarters, leading to wobbling or inability to grasp food.
Noticeable reduction in body length measured from nose to base of the tail.
Lethargy combined with a lack of interest in food, even when offered high‑calorie treats.

Monitoring body condition scores (BCS) on a 1‑5 scale helps quantify the severity of wasting. A BCS of 1 or 2, together with the physical signs listed above, strongly suggests that the rat is in a terminal stage. Immediate veterinary consultation is advised to confirm prognosis and discuss humane care options.

Changes in Breathing and Movement

Labored or Irregular Breathing

Labored or irregular breathing is a critical indicator that a pet rat is approaching the end of life. The respiratory pattern becomes noticeably shallow, rapid, or uneven, often accompanied by audible wheezing or rattling sounds. The rat may pause between breaths, exhibit occasional gasping, or display a visibly effortful chest movement.

Key characteristics to observe:

Breathing rate exceeds 80 breaths per minute at rest.
Inconsistent rhythm, with periods of quick breaths followed by longer pauses.
Audible harsh or high‑pitched noises during inhalation or exhalation.
Visible flaring of the nostrils or expansion of the abdomen with each breath.
Lack of coordinated movement; the rat may remain motionless while breathing appears strained.

When these signs emerge, immediate veterinary consultation is advised. A professional can assess whether the respiratory distress stems from terminal organ failure, infection, or another acute condition, and can provide appropriate palliative care or humane euthanasia if necessary. Monitoring temperature, posture, and responsiveness alongside breathing patterns offers a comprehensive view of the rat’s declining health.

Lethargy and Reduced Mobility

Lethargy and reduced mobility often signal that a pet rat is entering the final stage of illness. The animal may spend most of the day lying still, showing little interest in food, water, or interaction. Breathing may become shallow, and the rat may struggle to rise even for short periods. Weakness in the hind limbs can lead to an inability to climb or explore familiar areas, and when movement does occur, it is typically slow and uncoordinated.

Key observations include:

Persistent inactivity lasting several hours despite a normally active routine.
Reluctance or inability to climb cage bars, tunnels, or platforms.
Dragging or dragging of one or both hind legs during brief attempts to move.
Minimal response to gentle handling or stimulation.

These behaviors differentiate normal rest from a critical decline and warrant immediate veterinary consultation. Prompt assessment can confirm that the rat is nearing the end of life and help owners make informed decisions about comfort care.

Tremors or Seizures

Tremors and seizures are among the most urgent indicators that a rat’s health is deteriorating rapidly. A tremor appears as a rhythmic shaking of the limbs or body that persists for seconds to minutes, while a seizure involves uncontrolled muscle contractions, loss of consciousness, and often a clonic phase followed by a tonic phase. In terminal stages, these events become more frequent, last longer, and may occur without obvious triggers such as stress or temperature changes.

Key observations include:

Sudden onset of shaking that does not subside with gentle handling.
Convulsive episodes lasting more than 30 seconds, especially if repeated within a short period.
Simultaneous signs of respiratory distress, pale or cyanotic gums, and reduced responsiveness.
Lack of recovery between episodes; the rat remains lethargic or unresponsive.

Distinguishing pathological tremors from normal twitching is essential. Normal twitching is brief, localized, and often occurs during sleep or after handling. Pathological tremors are generalized, sustained, and accompanied by other systemic signs.

When tremors or seizures are observed, immediate veterinary consultation is required. The veterinarian may assess blood glucose, organ function, and neurological status to determine whether the condition is reversible or indicative of imminent death. If the prognosis is poor, humane euthanasia should be considered to prevent suffering.

Monitoring frequency, duration, and accompanying symptoms provides clear evidence for decision‑making and ensures that the rat receives appropriate care during its final stage.

Behavioral and Emotional Indicators

Changes in Social Interaction

Withdrawal or Increased Reclusiveness

Pet rats approaching the end of life often become markedly less social. They may spend most of the day hidden in corners, burrows, or under bedding, avoiding contact with owners and cage mates. This retreat from interaction is usually accompanied by a decline in exploratory behavior; the rat will no longer investigate new objects or respond to familiar stimuli.

Key observations include:

Persistent avoidance of handling, even when gentle and routine.
Preference for secluded spots, remaining immobile for prolonged periods.
Reduced vocalizations and diminished response to external sounds.
Limited movement within the enclosure, confined to a single area.

These changes differ from normal shy behavior. Normal shyness is situational and reversible; terminal withdrawal persists despite attempts to engage the animal and often worsens over days. Monitoring the consistency and duration of reclusive patterns helps distinguish a temporary stress response from a sign of imminent mortality.

If withdrawal is accompanied by other terminal indicators—such as loss of appetite, weight loss, or deteriorating coat condition—veterinary consultation is advisable to confirm the rat’s condition and discuss humane end‑of‑life options.

Lack of Interest in Play or Interaction

Pet rats normally engage in frequent climbing, chewing, and social contact. When a rat suddenly withdraws from these activities, the change often signals a serious health decline.

Observable shifts include:

Complete refusal to explore tunnels, wheels, or toys that previously attracted attention.
Absence of grooming behavior, resulting in a dull, unkempt coat.
Minimal or no response to the caretaker’s presence, even when food or treats are offered.
Preference for staying in a corner or nesting area without occasional forays typical of healthy individuals.

These behaviors differ from temporary lethargy caused by minor stressors. A rat that consistently avoids play and interaction, despite a comfortable environment and adequate nutrition, is likely experiencing systemic deterioration. Immediate veterinary assessment is recommended to determine underlying causes and to discuss end‑of‑life options.

Seeking Solitude or Hiding

When a rat approaches the end of its life, it often withdraws from social interaction and seeks isolated spaces. This change in behavior signals that the animal is conserving energy and protecting itself from perceived threats.

Typical manifestations include:

Retreat to the back of the cage, corners, or any dark enclosure, avoiding open areas where food and water are placed.
Reduced response to the owner’s presence; the rat may ignore calls or attempts at handling.
Decreased activity levels, with brief periods of movement limited to essential functions such as eating or drinking, if at all.
Preference for nesting material that creates a sealed, enclosed environment, even if it means abandoning the regular nest.

These patterns differ from normal exploratory or nocturnal habits. In healthy rats, brief periods of solitude are normal, but persistent isolation, especially when accompanied by lethargy and loss of appetite, warrants immediate veterinary assessment. Monitoring the duration and intensity of solitary behavior helps differentiate temporary stress from a terminal decline.

Changes in Appetite and Hydration

Refusal to Eat or Drink

Refusal to eat or drink is a critical indicator that a pet rat is approaching the end of life. Rats normally consume food and water several times a day; a sudden or prolonged loss of appetite signals severe physiological distress.

No interest in familiar foods for more than 12‑24 hours.
Absence of water intake, leading to dry mouth and reduced skin elasticity.
Weight loss measurable on a gram scale within a day.
Lethargy accompanying the lack of feeding, such as reduced movement and minimal response to stimuli.

The underlying causes often include organ failure, severe infection, or advanced gastrointestinal blockage. When a rat stops eating, its metabolic reserves deplete rapidly, accelerating decline. Monitoring should include daily weighing, checking for moisture around the mouth, and noting any attempts to nibble.

If refusal persists beyond 24 hours, or if it coincides with additional signs—such as labored breathing, unsteady gait, or abnormal discharge—immediate veterinary evaluation is warranted. Early professional assessment can confirm whether palliative care or humane euthanasia is appropriate, preventing unnecessary suffering.

Difficulty Swallowing

Difficulty swallowing, or dysphagia, is a critical indicator that a pet rat may be approaching the end of life. The condition manifests as reduced intake of food and water, frequent coughing or choking during meals, and visible effort to gulp liquids. Rats may hold food in their mouth longer than usual, drop it, or appear distressed while attempting to chew.

Underlying factors include progressive organ failure, severe respiratory infection, or neurological decline that impairs the muscles controlling the throat. In advanced disease states, the rat’s reflexes weaken, making the act of swallowing hazardous and often painful.

When dysphagia is observed, immediate actions should include:

Offering soft, easily consumable foods such as moistened pellets or pureed fruits.
Providing shallow water dishes to reduce the effort required to drink.
Monitoring for signs of aspiration, such as labored breathing or nasal discharge.
Consulting a veterinarian promptly to assess pain levels and discuss humane end‑of‑life options.

Persistent difficulty swallowing, coupled with weight loss, lethargy, and a decline in grooming behavior, typically signals that the rat’s health is deteriorating beyond recovery. Recognizing this symptom early enables caregivers to make informed decisions about comfort care and humane euthanasia.

Dehydration Signs

Dehydration often signals that a pet rat is entering the final stages of illness. Rapid fluid loss weakens organ function and accelerates decline, making early identification essential for humane care.

Sunken or glossy eyes
Dry, flaky nose and whisker pads
Loose or tenting skin on the back when gently pinched
Decreased urine output or absence of urine stains on bedding
Lethargy, lack of interest in food or water
Noticeable weight loss within a day or two

Observe the rat’s skin elasticity by lifting a small patch of dorsal skin; if it remains elevated for several seconds, fluid deficiency is likely. Check for moisture on the nose and whiskers; a dry appearance indicates insufficient hydration. Reduced activity and refusal to drink reinforce the diagnosis.

When multiple signs appear together, the animal’s condition is critical. Immediate veterinary consultation is recommended, but if care options are limited, providing a shallow dish of electrolyte‑balanced water and gently encouraging intake may offer temporary relief. Continuous monitoring of the listed indicators helps determine when the rat’s health has deteriorated beyond recovery.

Vocalizations and Pain Cues

Increased Squeaking or Grinding Teeth (Bruxing)

Increased vocalization or tooth grinding often signals that a rat is approaching the end of its life. Normal squeaking is intermittent and linked to excitement or mild discomfort; a sudden, persistent rise in volume, frequency, or duration indicates severe distress. Bruxing—continuous grinding of the incisors—occurs when the animal experiences pain, fever, or neurological decline, and it may be audible even when the rat is otherwise motionless.

Key observations include:

Frequency: Squeaks occur several times per minute, without pause.
Intensity: Sound is louder than typical communication calls.
Context: Vocalizations persist during rest, feeding, or handling, unlike normal situational squeaks.
Accompanying signs: Lethargy, loss of appetite, tremors, or unsteady gait often accompany bruxing.

These behaviors arise from physiological stressors such as organ failure, infection, or severe dehydration. The rat’s inability to regulate body temperature or maintain normal metabolic function amplifies discomfort, prompting repetitive vocal output and dental grinding.

When these signs appear, immediate veterinary assessment is essential. A professional can determine whether pain relief, fluid therapy, or humane euthanasia is appropriate. Until a vet can intervene, provide a quiet, warm environment, minimize handling, and ensure easy access to water and soft food to reduce additional stress.

Restlessness or Discomfort

Rats approaching the end of life often display heightened agitation. They may pace the cage, repeatedly climb or jump, and appear unable to settle in one spot for more than a few seconds. This restlessness contrasts with normal exploratory activity, which is usually purposeful and brief.

Signs of physical unease frequently accompany the agitation. A rat in discomfort may hunch its back, curl tightly, or adopt an abnormal posture that relieves pressure on sore areas. Grooming can become erratic: excessive licking of a single spot, or a sudden cessation of self‑cleaning altogether. Vocalizations may increase, with sharp squeaks or whines that differ from typical social calls.

Changes in eating and drinking habits also correlate with the restlessness. A rat may drink small amounts intermittently, then stop altogether, while simultaneously showing a lack of interest in favorite foods. Urination and defecation may become irregular, with occasional accidents outside the litter area.

Typical manifestations of restlessness or discomfort include:

Repetitive circling or climbing of the cage bars.
Inability to remain still for more than a few seconds.
Hunched or curled body posture, especially when lying down.
Excessive, localized licking or complete neglect of grooming.
Unusual, high‑pitched squeaks or whines.
Erratic drinking patterns and loss of appetite.
Occasional elimination outside the designated area.

Observing these behaviors together with other terminal indicators helps owners determine that a pet rat is nearing the end of its life and may require compassionate care or veterinary guidance.

Changes in Posture (Hunched Back, Guarded Stance)

Pet rats approaching the end of life often display distinct postural alterations. A pronounced curvature of the spine creates a hunched back, reducing the animal’s ability to stand upright. This curvature is typically accompanied by a rigid, protective stance: the rat may curl its body, tuck its head low, and keep limbs close to the torso.

Observable indicators include:

Persistent hunched posture despite attempts to encourage movement.
Guarded stance with limited willingness to explore or interact.
Reduced flexibility in the spine, making the rat appear immobile when lifted.
Frequent resting on a single side of the body, suggesting discomfort.

These changes result from weakening muscles, joint pain, and declining organ function. Early detection allows caregivers to adjust the environment—providing soft bedding, easy access to food and water, and minimizing handling stress—thereby enhancing comfort during the final stage.

Providing Comfort and Care During a Rat’s Final Days

Creating a Peaceful Environment

Warm and Soft Bedding

Warm, soft bedding is a critical indicator when a pet rat is approaching the end of its life. Rats in terminal decline often seek the most comfortable surface available, spending prolonged periods curled in plush material rather than exploring or foraging. The following observations help confirm this behavior:

Persistent nesting in the softest corner of the cage, even when food or water is nearby.
Reduced movement; the rat remains still for hours, only shifting position to maintain comfort.
Lack of interest in typical activities such as climbing or chewing, replaced by an exclusive focus on the bedding.
Increased vocalizations or sighing while settled in the nest, suggesting discomfort elsewhere.

Veterinary assessments frequently cite these patterns as reliable signs of imminent mortality, emphasizing that changes in bedding preference are not merely a habit but a response to declining health. Monitoring the rat’s interaction with its nest material provides a clear, objective measure for caregivers to recognize the final stage of life.

Reduced Noise and Stress

Reduced vocalizations often signal that a rat’s physiological systems are failing. As the animal approaches the end of life, the effort required to produce squeaks and chirps diminishes, leading to a noticeable quietness even in familiar surroundings. This silence should be observed alongside other indicators such as diminished appetite, lethargy, and altered breathing patterns.

Stress levels decline dramatically when a rat is near death. The animal may cease reacting to stimuli that previously provoked alertness, such as handling, cage changes, or the presence of other pets. Indicators of this reduced stress include:

Minimal movement or resistance when approached, suggesting a lack of energy to respond.
Absence of defensive or exploratory behaviors, even in enriched environments.
Flattened posture and relaxed muscles, reflecting a cessation of fight‑or‑flight responses.

When these signs of lowered noise and stress appear together, they form a reliable component of the overall assessment that the pet rat is approaching its final stage. Prompt veterinary consultation is advised to confirm the condition and to discuss humane options.

Easy Access to Food and Water

When a rat’s ability to obtain food and water diminishes, the change often signals a critical health decline. A pet that once approached a bowl eagerly may now ignore it, stumble toward it, or fail to reach it altogether. This shift reflects reduced strength, loss of coordination, or severe illness, all of which are common in the final stages of life.

Key observations related to nourishment access:

Decreased interest in food or water despite availability.
Hesitation or difficulty moving toward the bowl, often resulting in missed meals.
Preference for lying down near the source without attempting to eat or drink.
Presence of stale, unconsumed food in the cage, indicating the rat cannot or will not consume it.
Noticeable weight loss over a short period, confirmed by regular weighing.

These behaviors, when paired with other terminal indicators, provide a reliable basis for concluding that the rat is approaching death. Immediate veterinary consultation is advisable if any of these signs emerge abruptly.

Nutritional and Hydration Support

Offering Favorite Soft Foods

Offering favorite soft foods can provide critical insight into a rat’s terminal condition. When a rat approaches the end of life, appetite often declines sharply, yet occasional interest in easily consumable, familiar foods may persist. Observing this behavior helps differentiate between general illness and imminent death.

Soft foods should be nutritionally dense, low‑risk for choking, and familiar to the animal. Common options include:

Mashed banana or avocado, served at room temperature.
Plain, unsweetened yogurt (full‑fat) in a shallow dish.
Warmed, pureed pumpkin or sweet potato, thinned with a few drops of water.
Soft, boiled egg yolk, crumbled finely.
Commercial rat soft diet formulated for convalescent animals.

Provide the chosen item in a small, clean bowl, limiting the quantity to a spoonful. Record the rat’s response: rapid consumption, hesitation, or refusal. A sudden surge in interest followed by immediate cessation may indicate a brief resurgence of energy, known as a “last push,” often preceding death.

If the rat accepts the soft food but shows signs such as lethargy, unsteady gait, or labored breathing shortly after eating, these observations reinforce the assessment that the animal is in a terminal phase. Conversely, consistent refusal of even the most palatable soft foods suggests a deeper decline, supporting the conclusion that death is imminent.

Syringe Feeding or Water if Necessary

When a rat shows signs of imminent decline—such as severe lethargy, loss of appetite, weight loss, or inability to move independently—providing supplemental nutrition and hydration may extend comfort. Syringe feeding becomes necessary only if the animal cannot consume food or water voluntarily.

Use a sterile, appropriately sized feeding syringe (1 ml or 3 ml) fitted with a soft, flexible tip to avoid tissue damage.
Prepare a nutritionally balanced formula: a commercial rat milk replacer diluted to a thin consistency (approximately 1 part formula to 1 part warm water).
Warm the mixture to body temperature (≈38 °C); test on the back of the hand to prevent burns.
Position the rat on its side, support the head, and gently insert the tip into the side of the mouth, avoiding the throat.
Administer 0.5–1 ml per 50 g of body weight, pausing after each small amount to allow swallowing.
Observe for coughing, choking, or regurgitation; discontinue immediately if these occur.

If the rat can drink but refuses, offer water via the same syringe using sterile saline or dechlorinated warm water. Limit each session to 0.5 ml per 50 g to reduce the risk of aspiration. Monitor hydration status by checking skin elasticity and eye clarity; persistent dehydration despite syringe water indicates advancing organ failure.

Syringe feeding should be performed no more than every 4–6 hours, with careful assessment after each session. When the animal consistently rejects all attempts, displays unresponsive behavior, or exhibits severe respiratory distress, the focus should shift from artificial nutrition to humane palliative care.

Consulting with a Veterinarian for Pain Management

When a pet rat shows signs of impending death, professional guidance is essential for humane pain relief. A veterinarian can evaluate the animal’s condition, prescribe appropriate analgesics, and advise on dosage adjustments to match the rat’s size and metabolism. Direct communication with the clinician ensures that treatment aligns with the animal’s comfort needs and the owner’s preferences.

Key points to address during the consultation:

Detailed description of observable symptoms (e.g., reduced mobility, labored breathing, changes in appetite).
Current medications, including over‑the‑counter products, to avoid adverse interactions.
Recommended pain‑relief options, such as low‑dose buprenorphine or meloxicam, with clear instructions for administration frequency.
Monitoring plan for assessing pain levels, including behavioral cues and physiological changes.
Guidance on end‑of‑life care, covering humane euthanasia criteria if suffering cannot be managed.

Following the veterinarian’s plan reduces distress, supports a dignified transition, and provides the owner with confidence that the rat’s final days are managed responsibly.

Emotional Support for the Owner

Acknowledging Grief and Sadness

When a small companion shows signs of impending decline, the emotional response can be intense. Recognizing that grief and sadness are natural reactions helps prevent denial and supports healthier processing of loss.

Accepting the emotional impact involves:

Naming the feelings: identify sorrow, anxiety, or guilt without judgment.
Allowing expression: talk to trusted friends, write in a journal, or share memories aloud.
Seeking professional guidance: counselors, support groups, or veterinary staff can provide perspective and coping strategies.

Practical steps to manage the emotional burden include maintaining a routine, limiting exposure to distressing stimuli, and preserving the rat’s dignity by providing comfort measures such as gentle handling, a warm environment, and familiar bedding.

After the animal passes, honoring its life through a small ceremony, a photo collage, or a donation to an animal welfare organization can give closure and reinforce the value of the bond that was shared.

Seeking Support from Other Rat Owners or Pet Loss Resources

When a rat shows signs of imminent decline—such as persistent lethargy, loss of appetite, labored breathing, or severe weight loss—owners often experience intense emotional strain. Reaching out to fellow rat enthusiasts or dedicated pet‑loss services can provide practical advice and emotional steadiness during this critical period.

Join specialized online communities (e.g., rat‑focused subreddits, Facebook groups) where members share care strategies, symptom interpretations, and end‑of‑life decisions.
Contact local rodent clubs or meet‑ups; in‑person conversations allow rapid exchange of observations and hands‑on assistance with palliative measures.
Utilize veterinary hospice programs; many clinics offer guidance on humane euthanasia, pain management, and after‑care planning.
Access pet‑loss counseling lines or organizations (e.g., The Compassionate Friends, GriefShare) that offer structured support sessions and resources for coping with bereavement.
Create a memorial page or journal; documenting the rat’s final days helps process grief and preserves memories for future reference.

Engaging with these networks reduces isolation, validates concerns, and supplies actionable information that can improve the rat’s comfort and guide the owner through the concluding phase with clarity and compassion.

Making Difficult Decisions (Euthanasia)

When a pet rat shows signs of imminent decline, owners must confront the choice of humane termination. The decision rests on objective assessment, ethical responsibility, and the animal’s quality of life.

Key factors to evaluate:

Persistent weight loss exceeding 15 % of normal body mass.
Inability to eat or drink despite encouragement.
Severe respiratory distress, such as labored breathing or audible wheezing.
Profound lethargy, unresponsiveness to stimuli, or loss of motor coordination.
Chronic, unrelieved pain evident from guarding behavior or vocalization.

If multiple criteria are present and the prognosis is poor, euthanasia becomes a compassionate option. The process should follow these steps:

Consult a veterinarian experienced with small rodents to confirm the clinical picture.
Discuss the animal’s condition openly, outlining expected outcomes and alternatives.
Choose an appropriate method—typically an injectable anesthetic that induces rapid, painless loss of consciousness followed by cardiac arrest.
Perform the procedure in a calm environment, minimizing stress for both pet and owner.
Provide post‑procedure support, such as grief counseling or memorialization options.

Making this choice demands factual judgment rather than emotional impulse. Recognizing terminal indicators promptly allows owners to act responsibly, ensuring the rat’s suffering ends swiftly and with dignity.