A cat is barely breathing, what should I do? - briefly
If you observe a cat that is barely breathing, immediate action is crucial. Place the cat in a quiet, warm area and contact your veterinarian or an emergency pet clinic right away.
A cat is barely breathing, what should I do? - in detail
If you find that your cat is barely breathing, it is crucial to act swiftly and calmly. The first step is to ensure your own safety and the safety of others around you. Cats that are in respiratory distress may act unpredictably due to fear and pain. Approach the cat gently and speak softly to avoid causing further stress.
Assess the situation by observing the cat's breathing pattern. Normal breathing in cats is quiet and effortless. If the cat is making loud noises, such as wheezing or gasping, or if the abdomen and chest movements are exaggerated, it indicates severe respiratory distress. Check for other signs of distress, such as blue or pale gums, which can indicate a lack of oxygen. Additionally, look for any visible injuries or signs of trauma that might be causing the breathing difficulties.
Immediate steps to take include:
- Place the cat in a quiet, calm environment to reduce stress.
- Ensure the cat is in a position that allows for easy breathing, such as lying on its side with its head slightly elevated.
- Do not attempt to force the cat to move or stand if it is reluctant, as this can exacerbate the problem.
- If the cat is choking or has an obstructed airway, carefully open the cat's mouth and look for any visible obstructions. If an obstruction is seen, attempt to remove it gently using your fingers or tweezers. Be cautious not to push the object further down the throat.
- If the cat is not choking but is still in respiratory distress, do not attempt to perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation unless you are trained to do so. Instead, focus on keeping the cat calm and warm.
Contact a veterinarian immediately. Provide as much detail as possible about the cat's symptoms, any recent events that might have caused the distress, and the cat's medical history. Follow the veterinarian's instructions carefully. They may advise you to bring the cat to the clinic immediately or provide guidance on how to manage the situation until professional help arrives.
While waiting for veterinary assistance, monitor the cat's breathing closely. If the cat stops breathing, be prepared to perform CPR if you are trained to do so. However, it is essential to prioritize seeking professional help over attempting CPR without proper training.
Upon arrival at the veterinary clinic, the veterinarian will perform a thorough examination to determine the cause of the respiratory distress. Possible causes include:
- Respiratory infections, such as pneumonia or feline asthma.
- Trauma, such as a fall or car accident.
- Foreign objects lodged in the airway.
- Heart conditions, such as congestive heart failure.
- Toxin ingestion or exposure to harmful substances.
Treatment will depend on the underlying cause and may include oxygen therapy, medications to reduce inflammation or infection, or surgical intervention to remove obstructions. Follow-up care and monitoring will be necessary to ensure the cat's full recovery.
In summary, if a cat is barely breathing, it is a medical emergency requiring immediate attention. Stay calm, assess the situation, and contact a veterinarian for professional guidance. Provide a safe and calm environment for the cat while waiting for help, and be prepared to follow the veterinarian's instructions carefully.