My Cat is Having Trouble Breathing, What Should I Do?

If your cat is experiencing difficulty breathing, the first step is to administer any pet-specific medication you may have on hand to help temporarily stabilize the situation. Following this immediate action, it's crucial to seek prompt veterinary care. Respiration is a fundamental vital sign for cats; normally, it should be steady and quiet. Any indication of breathing difficulties warrants immediate attention.

A healthy cat at rest typically has a respiratory rate of 20-30 breaths per minute. During normal breathing, the chest will visibly rise and fall, while abdominal movement is less pronounced. The speed and depth of a cat's breathing can reflect their overall health status. An increased rate and shallower breaths are normal responses to vigorous exercise or stress. However, if a cat displays rapid breathing, unusually shallow or deep breaths, or open-mouth breathing while at rest, this suggests a potential underlying health issue.

In cases of pneumonia, cats may exhibit rapid breathing, coughing, and nasal discharge. With emphysema, cats tend to take shallow, rapid breaths, and abdominal movements often exceed chest movements. If your cat is breathing extremely fast, sometimes exceeding 80 breaths per minute, and has bluish gums and tongue, it indicates severe respiratory distress and significant oxygen deprivation. This constitutes a medical emergency that requires immediate oxygen therapy and other treatments. Delay can be fatal. This condition is more common in middle-aged to senior cats, especially those with heart disease or pleural effusion. Keep your cat calm during this time to minimize stress, as anxiety can also be life-threatening.Related resource:Pet Training