What to Do When Your Pet Passes Away in Singapore – Cremation, Costs & Grief Support

Losing a beloved pet is never easy. In Singapore, when a dog, cat, or small animal passes away, it can be overwhelming to know what to do next. From legal steps and cremation to grieving and memorializing, this guide walks you through everything you need — both practically and emotionally.

If you're facing this difficult moment now, know that you're not alone — and there are compassionate resources to help.

1. Take a Moment to Breathe — Then Confirm What Happens Next

If your pet just passed — whether at home or at the vet — you may feel numb, overwhelmed, or unsure of what to do. That’s completely normal.

If you're at home, you can gently check for signs of life (movement, breathing). If unsure, call your vet or emergency services for help. You don't have to go through this alone.

Once you’re ready, this guide will walk you through what comes next — gently and clearly.

2. Should You Choose Burial or Cremation in Singapore?

In Singapore, most pet owners choose cremation, as burial is only legal on private landed property — not in HDBs, condos, parks, or public spaces.

Here’s a quick guide:

  • Burial is legal only on private landed property, and must be done within 24 hours
  • Small pets (hamsters, fish, birds) may be wrapped and disposed of as general waste
  • Larger pets (dogs, cats) must be cremated due to NEA regulations

If you're unsure or unable to bury your pet legally, cremation is the most common and accessible option.

3. Understanding Your Pet Cremation Options

There are three types of cremation available in Singapore. The main differences are whether you receive the ashes, the cost, and how private the process is.

1) Communal - Cremation with Other Animals - Ashes not Returned - $50-$430

2) Individual - Partitioned Chamber - Ashes Returned - $90-$777

3) Private - Only Your Pet - Ashes Returned - $168-$800

You can compare trusted pet cremation services in Singapore by budget, location, and cremation type on our directory, and also visit for a clearer explanation of the three cremation options.

4. Deciding What to Do With Your Pet’s Ashes

If you choose cremation, you’ll need to decide what you’d like to do with the ashes. Common choices include:

  • Keep them in an urn at home (many customizable designs are available)
  • Place them in a pet columbarium (available at some crematoriums)
  • Scatter them at sea — a common practice for communal cremations
  • Create keepsakes, such as jewellery, paw prints, or memory boxes

There’s no right or wrong choice — just what feels meaningful to you.

Visit our guide on Pet Memorials.

6. Honouring Their Memory in a Way That’s Yours

You might feel like doing something tangible to honour their life. Some gentle ideas:

  • Set up a memorial corner with photos, toys, or a candle
  • Plant a tree or flowers in their memory
  • Donate to a local shelter in their name
  • Create a scrapbook, photo album, or digital tribute

Whatever you choose, let it be an act of love — not obligation.

7. Where to Get Help When You're Ready

If you’re looking for cremation services, or just want to understand your options:

Compare pet cremation providers in Singapore — search by cremation type, price, and whether ashes are returned.

When you're ready, we're here to guide you through it.

Final Thoughts

Saying goodbye to a pet is one of the hardest things you’ll ever do, but it’s also one of the most beautiful acts of love. You’re giving them peace, just as they gave you so much joy. And while the pain of loss is real, so too is the gift of having shared this life with them.

Cherish them now, in every moment. Love them fiercely. And when the time comes, remember that their love will always be with you—unchanged and unending.

If you need help navigating cremation options or planning for what’s next, visit our Pet Cremation Directory. We’re here to support you, every step of the way.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Pet Cremation in Singapore

1. How much does pet cremation cost in Singapore?

Pet cremation prices in Singapore range from $50 to $800, depending on the cremation type (communal, individual, or private), pet size, and add-on services like urns or memorials. Learn more about cremation options here.

2. Can I keep my pet’s ashes after cremation?

Yes. If you choose individual or private cremation, your pet’s ashes will be returned to you. Communal cremation does not allow ashes to be returned, as pets are cremated together.

3. What are the different types of pet cremation in Singapore?

  • Communal: No ashes returned
  • Individual: Ashes returned, cremated in a partitioned chamber
  • Private: Only your pet, ashes returned, and you may witness the process
    Visit our guide to compare all pet cremation methods in Singapore.

4. Is pet burial legal in Singapore?

Pet burial is only legal on private landed property. It is not allowed in public spaces or HDB estates. Most pet owners choose cremation due to limited legal burial options.

5. What can I do with my pet’s ashes?

You can:

  • Store them in a decorative urn
  • Place them in a pet columbarium
  • Scatter ashes at sea
  • Create memorial jewelry or keepsakes

6. Are there eco-friendly pet cremation options in Singapore?

Yes, aqua cremation (also known as alkaline hydrolysis) is a more environmentally friendly option that uses water instead of flame. It is offered by select cremation providers in Singapore.

7. Can I witness my pet’s cremation?

Yes, if you choose private cremation, you can usually witness the process and spend some final moments with your pet before the cremation.

8. How do I find the best pet cremation service in Singapore?

Use our pet cremation directory to compare providers by price, location, and services offered, including transport, viewing rooms, and types of urns or keepsakes.