Cat Quality Of Life
Assess your cat's QOL using the HHHHHMM Quality of Life Scale. Score 7 criteria 1-10 to evaluate pain, appetite, mobility, and happiness for hospice decisions.
About This Calculator
The Cat Quality of Life Calculator uses the HHHHHMM Quality of Life Scale developed by Dr. Alice Villalobos to help pet owners and veterinarians evaluate a cat's well-being during hospice or end-of-life care. This tool assesses seven criteria — Hurt, Hunger, Hydration, Hygiene, Happiness, Mobility, and More good days than bad — each scored from 1 (unacceptable) to 10 (excellent). The total score out of 70 determines whether your cat has an acceptable quality of life to continue hospice care.
The HHHHHMM scale is a widely recognized veterinary tool first published in Dr. Villalobos's book Canine and Feline Geriatric Oncology: Honoring the Human-Animal Bond (Blackwell Publishing, 2007) and revised for the International Veterinary Association of Pain Management (IVAPM) 2011 Palliative Care and Hospice Guidelines. Each criterion addresses a fundamental aspect of feline well-being: pain control and breathing (Hurt), nutritional intake (Hunger), fluid consumption (Hydration), cleanliness and grooming (Hygiene), emotional engagement and joy (Happiness), mobility and ambulation (Mobility), and the balance of positive versus negative experiences (More good days than bad). Together, these dimensions provide a comprehensive assessment of your cat's comfort and quality of life.
When scoring your cat, try to be as objective and consistent as possible. Consider each criterion over the past week rather than a single moment. A total score of 35 or below suggests the cat's quality of life may not be acceptable, and you should consult your veterinarian to discuss hospice care adjustments or humane euthanasia. A score between 36 and 69 indicates acceptable quality of life where continued hospice care with close monitoring is appropriate. A perfect score of 70 reflects excellent quality of life across all dimensions.
Regional Notes
Global: The HHHHHMM Quality of Life Scale is a universal veterinary assessment tool recognized by veterinary professionals worldwide. The scoring criteria and interpretation are consistent across all regions. Always consult a licensed veterinarian in your country for personalized medical advice regarding end-of-life decisions for your pet.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HHHHHMM Quality of Life Scale for cats?
The HHHHHMM Quality of Life Scale, developed by Dr. Alice Villalobos, assesses a cat's quality of life across seven criteria: Hurt, Hunger, Hydration, Hygiene, Happiness, Mobility, and More good days than bad. Each criterion is scored from 1 (unacceptable) to 10 (excellent), with a maximum total score of 70.
How do I score my cat on the Quality of Life Scale?
Score each of the seven criteria from 1 to 10, where 1 is unacceptable and 10 is excellent. Be as objective as possible. A total score of 0-35 means quality of life is not acceptable, 36-69 is acceptable, and 70 is excellent.
What does each criterion in the HHHHHMM scale mean?
Hurt assesses pain control and breathing. Hunger evaluates eating habits and nutrition. Hydration checks fluid intake. Hygiene measures cleanliness and grooming. Happiness looks at engagement and emotional state. Mobility assesses the ability to move around. More good days than bad compares positive versus negative experiences.
When should I consider euthanasia for my cat?
If your cat's total score is 35 or below, the quality of life may not be acceptable, and it may be time to discuss humane euthanasia with your veterinarian. A score of 36-69 indicates acceptable quality of life where hospice care can continue with close monitoring.
How can I improve my cat's quality of life during hospice care?
Modify your home environment with raised bowls and non-slip surfaces. Assist with hygiene by brushing and cleaning. Provide comfortable bedding to prevent pressure sores. Ensure a calm environment with no unwanted stimulation. Ask your vet about medical acupuncture for pain management.
Is this calculator a substitute for veterinary advice?
No, this calculator is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. The results serve as a starting point for discussing your cat's quality of life with your veterinarian, who can provide a comprehensive medical assessment and recommend the best course of action.
What are other feline quality of life scales?
Besides the HHHHHMM Quality of Life Scale, other scales include the JOURNEYS Quality of Life Scale and the Pet Quality of Life Scale and Diary. These tools help pet owners and veterinarians assess end-of-life care for cats.