How to save a cat if it's choking? - briefly
If a cat is choking, immediately assess the situation to determine if the airway is blocked. If the cat is conscious and can breathe, monitor it closely. If the cat is unconscious or unable to breathe, perform the Heimlich maneuver by placing your hands around the cat's abdomen just below the ribcage and applying firm, quick upward thrusts until the object is dislodged. If the cat is small, you may need to place it on its back and perform chest compressions. If the cat stops breathing, begin rescue breathing by closing the cat's mouth and breathing into its nose until it starts breathing on its own. Seek veterinary assistance immediately.
How to save a cat if it's choking? - in detail
Choking in cats can be a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate attention. Recognizing the signs of choking and knowing how to respond can significantly improve the chances of saving a cat's life. The first step in assisting a choking cat is to remain calm and act swiftly. Panic can cloud judgment and delay crucial actions.
Observe the cat for signs of choking. Common indicators include pawing at the mouth, drooling, difficulty breathing, blue-tinged gums, and collapse. If the cat is conscious and able to breathe, it may attempt to dislodge the object by coughing or retching. In such cases, it is best to allow the cat to try to expel the object on its own while monitoring its condition closely. However, if the cat is unconscious or unable to breathe, immediate intervention is necessary.
To help a choking cat, carefully approach it from the side or behind to avoid being bitten. Gently but firmly hold the cat's body with one hand, ensuring it is secure. Use the other hand to open the cat's mouth and look inside for any visible obstructions. If an object is visible and can be easily removed with your fingers, carefully extract it. Be cautious not to push the object further down the throat.
If the obstruction is not visible or cannot be removed with fingers, perform the feline Heimlich maneuver. Place the cat on its side and find the soft, lower part of the ribcage, just behind the front legs. Apply firm, quick pressure to this area with your thumb and fingers, pushing inward and upward. Repeat this motion several times until the object is dislodged or the cat begins to breathe normally. Be mindful of the cat's delicate ribcage and apply pressure gently but firmly.
If the cat becomes unconscious during the process, check for a heartbeat and breathing. If there is no heartbeat, perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) immediately. Place the cat on a flat surface and compress the chest with two fingers, applying firm, rhythmic pressure at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute. After 30 compressions, give two rescue breaths by covering the cat's nose and mouth with your mouth and blowing gently until the chest rises. Continue CPR until the cat shows signs of life or veterinary help arrives.
Throughout the process, it is crucial to remain calm and focused. Time is of the essence, and every second counts. Once the obstruction is removed and the cat is breathing normally, monitor its condition closely. Even if the cat appears to be recovering, it is essential to seek veterinary care as soon as possible. The cat may have sustained internal injuries or may require further medical attention to ensure a full recovery.
In summary, recognizing the signs of choking in cats and knowing how to respond can save a cat's life. Stay calm, observe the cat for signs of distress, and act swiftly to remove the obstruction. If necessary, perform the feline Heimlich maneuver or CPR until veterinary help is available. Always seek professional veterinary care following a choking incident to ensure the cat's well-being.