How to determine a cat's pulse? - briefly
To determine your cat's pulse, gently place two fingers on the inside of their thigh where you can feel the femoral artery. Alternatively, you can check for the pulse at the base of their jaw or wrist. Count the beats for 15 seconds and then multiply by four to get the beats per minute.
How to determine a cat's pulse? - in detail
To accurately determine a cat's pulse, follow these detailed steps:
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Preparation: Find a quiet and comfortable location where your cat feels secure. It’s best to perform this check when your cat is relaxed and calm. Ensure you have good lighting for clear visibility.
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Positioning: Place your cat on a flat surface, ideally on its side or back. If necessary, gently restrain your cat to prevent it from moving too much during the process. This will ensure accurate readings.
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Location: The most common and accessible location for checking a cat's pulse is the femoral artery, which runs along the inner thigh. You can also check the radial artery on the front leg near the wrist, similar to humans, but this might be more challenging due to the cat’s smaller size.
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Palpation: Gently place your index and middle fingers on the femoral artery or the radial artery. Apply slight pressure, but avoid pressing too hard as it may cause discomfort or obstruct blood flow. Maintain steady contact without moving your fingers around.
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Counting Pulses: Count the number of pulses over a period of 15 seconds and then multiply by four to get the beats per minute (bpm). This method is more accurate than trying to count for a full minute, especially if your cat is moving.
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Consistency: Ensure consistency in your counting method. You may want to repeat the process two or three times to ensure accuracy and that your cat’s pulse rate is consistent.
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Normal Range: A normal resting heart rate for a healthy adult cat typically ranges from 140 to 220 beats per minute (bpm). Kittens and younger cats may have higher rates, sometimes up to 240 bpm.
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Observations: While counting the pulse, observe your cat's breathing. A normal respiratory rate for a cat is about 15-30 breaths per minute at rest. Any significant deviations from these norms should be noted and discussed with a veterinarian.
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Documentation: Record the pulse rate along with any observations or concerns. This information can be helpful for future reference and for discussing with your vet if you notice any irregularities.
Regularly checking your cat’s pulse can help you establish a baseline and quickly identify any abnormalities that may require veterinary attention. If you notice an unusually high or low heart rate, or any irregular beats, it is essential to consult with a veterinarian promptly.