How to resuscitate a cat? - briefly
If a cat stops breathing or its heart stops beating, immediate action is crucial. Perform feline CPR by placing the cat on its right side, covering its heart with one hand, and compressing it at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute, followed by two rescue breaths.
How to resuscitate a cat? - in detail
Resuscitating a cat is a critical and urgent procedure that requires immediate action and knowledge of specific steps. The first and foremost step is to ensure your own safety and the safety of the cat. If the cat has been involved in an accident or is in a dangerous environment, move it to a safe location. However, be cautious; sudden movements can cause further injury, especially if the cat has spinal or neck injuries.
Assess the cat's condition by checking for breathing and a heartbeat. Place your hand on the cat's chest to feel for a heartbeat, and look for any rise and fall of the chest to indicate breathing. If the cat is not breathing, begin artificial respiration. Open the cat's mouth and check for any obstructions. If there are any, carefully remove them. Place your mouth over the cat's nose and mouth, creating a seal, and breathe gently but firmly into the cat's lungs. Use short, quick breaths, allowing the cat's chest to rise and fall naturally. Administer one breath every 3-4 seconds.
If the cat does not have a heartbeat, initiate chest compressions. Place the cat on a firm, flat surface. For small cats, place one hand on the cat's chest, just behind the elbows. For larger cats, use both hands. Compress the chest about 1-1.5 inches, or one-third to one-half the width of the chest. Perform 100-120 compressions per minute, which is roughly two compressions per second. After 30 compressions, give two breaths. Continue this cycle of 30 compressions to 2 breaths until the cat shows signs of recovery or until veterinary help arrives.
If the cat has been exposed to toxins or chemicals, try to identify the substance and inform the veterinarian. If possible, bring the container or a sample of the substance with you to the vet. This information can be crucial for the vet to provide the appropriate treatment.
While performing resuscitation, keep the cat warm. Hypothermia can set in quickly, especially in small animals. Wrap the cat in a blanket or towel to retain body heat. Avoid using direct heat sources like hairdryers, as they can cause burns.
If the cat regains consciousness, keep it warm and quiet. Monitor its breathing and heartbeat closely. Even if the cat seems to recover, it is essential to take it to a veterinarian as soon as possible. Internal injuries or complications may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening if left untreated. If the cat does not respond to resuscitation efforts within 10-15 minutes, it may be necessary to discontinue efforts and seek veterinary advice.
It is crucial to remember that while performing these steps, time is of the essence. The sooner professional veterinary care is received, the better the chances of a successful outcome. Always prioritize safety and seek professional help immediately. Regular first aid training and knowledge of pet CPR can significantly improve the chances of saving a cat's life in an emergency.