If you own a Sphynx cat, you probably know this breed comes with many special requirements.
Therefore, as you probably wonder about pretty much anything surrounding a Sphinx cat, you’ve probably asked yourself whether cremation is a viable option for laying your beloved pet to rest.
Sphynx cats are a unique breed that requires special care and attention; however, they can be cremated just like any other cat.
With that said, there are a few things you should know about cremation, such as the cost, additional services you may need, as well as the different types of cremation available, before making a decision.
Each option has its own benefits and drawbacks, and this article will explore everything you need to know about cremating your Sphinx cat.
What is Cremation?
Cremation is a process where the deceased pet’s body is reduced to ashes and bone fragments through intense heat, typically in a specialized crematorium.
The cremains are then processed into a fine powder resembling ashes and returned to the pet owner in an urn or container.
This practice offers a way for pet owners to respectfully handle their pet’s remains after passing.
Cremation is also a more environmentally friendly option compared to burial, as it does not involve the use of chemicals or the need for a burial plot.
It can also provide a sense of closure and comfort for pet owners, as they can keep their pet’s ashes close by or scatter them in a special location.
Types of Pet Cremation
There are two types of cremation: communal and individual.
Communal pet cremation involves the cremation of multiple pets together in a shared cremation chamber.
After cremation, the resulting ashes are not separated, and each pet owner does not receive individual ashes back.
Instead, the ashes are disposed of respectfully and according to the service provider’s guidelines.
This option is typically more cost-effective and suitable for pet owners who do not want to retain the ashes.
On the other hand, individual cremation entails the separate cremation of a single pet in its dedicated chamber, ensuring that the ashes remain distinct and specific to that pet.
Following cremation, the cremains are collected and returned to the pet owner in an urn or container.
This option allows pet owners to keep the individual ashes as a memorial of their beloved pet.
Cremating a Sphynx Cat
Preparing for Cremation
Before cremation, you must communicate any specific requests to the crematorium so they can accommodate your wishes.
Next, you must choose the type of service you prefer, whether communal or individual cremation.
Additionally, you need to arrange to transport your Sphynx cat to the crematorium to ensure a respectful and timely transfer.
Now, before cremation, you need to prepare your Sphynx cat’s body. This includes removing any collars or tags and cleaning the body.
However, you can wrap your Sphynx cat in a special blanket or cloth during the process as a sign of care and comfort.
Finally, if opting for individual cremation, you will either have the option to select an urn or container to hold your cat’s ashes after the process is complete or provide the crematorium with the container of your choice if it was purchased via another vendor.
The Cremation Process for Sphynx Cat
Once you give up your Sphynx cat’s remains, they will be placed in a specialized cremation chamber that reaches high temperatures, typically between 1400 and 1800 degrees Fahrenheit.
The cremation process for a Sphynx cat can take approximately 4 to 8 hours, depending on the pet’s size and the crematorium’s efficiency.
After cremation, the remains are allowed to cool down for a duration similar to that of the burning process to ensure safe handling.
The cost of cremating a Sphynx cat can vary based on factors such as location, type of cremation chosen, and additional services requested, which is why asking in advance to avoid any surprise charges is advised.
However, on average, the cost of cremation for a Sphynx cat can range from $100 to $300.
Aftercare
Here are some creative ideas to honor your Sphinx cat’s remains after cremation:
Creating a Memorial Corner: Consider setting up a dedicated memorial corner in your home to honor your Sphynx cat’s memory, complete with photos, mementos, and the urn containing their ashes.
Create Keepsakes: Keeping a portion of your cat’s ashes in keepsakes such as pendant lockets can ensure a part of your departed pet is always near you.
Plant a Tree in Your Pet’s Name: Planting a tree in your garden or a meaningful location, such as a park you might’ve frequented with your Sphinx cat, can be a good way to honor your pet while giving back to the environment.
Donate in Your Pet’s Name: Donating to animal shelters in your Sphinx cat’s name can be another honorable way to remember them while helping out other animals in need.
What are the Alternatives to Cremation?
If you’re not comfortable with cremation, there are other options available for the final disposition of your sphynx cat’s remains.
Here are some alternatives:
Burial: You can bury your sphynx cat in your backyard or a pet cemetery. Before burying your pet, make sure to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits.
Aquamation: Also known as alkaline hydrolysis, aquamation is a newer method of disposition that uses water and alkaline solutions to break down the body. This process is similar to cremation but is considered to be more eco-friendly.
Natural Burial: This burial method involves burying your pet in a biodegradable container or shroud without embalming or other chemical treatments. This allows your pet’s body to decompose naturally and return to the earth.
Each of these options has its advantages and disadvantages, so it’s essential to consider what’s best for you and your sphynx cat.
Deciding what to do with your beloved sphynx cat’s remains can be a difficult and emotional decision.
While burying your cat may seem like the traditional option, cremation can be a practical and cost-effective alternative.
There are several options available for cremating your sphynx cat, including private cremation and communal cremation.
Private cremation guarantees that the collected ashes belong 100% to your pet and are not mixed with those of other animals.
Communal cremation, on the other hand, involves multiple pets being cremated together, and the ashes are not returned to the owner.
Ultimately, the decision to cremate your sphynx cat is a personal one. Take the time to weigh the options and choose what feels right for you and your pet.
