My cat choked on fur and makes sounds, what should I do?

My cat choked on fur and makes sounds, what should I do? - briefly

If your cat is choking on fur and making distressing sounds, immediately place two fingers gently but firmly in its mouth to remove the fur. If you cannot dislodge it, seek veterinary assistance promptly.

My cat choked on fur and makes sounds, what should I do? - in detail

If your cat has choked on fur and is making strange sounds, it's important to act quickly and calmly. Here are the steps you should follow:

  1. Stay Calm: Cats are sensitive to their owner's emotions. Staying calm will help your cat remain calm as well.

  2. Check for Obstructions: Gently open your cat's mouth and look for any fur or other obstructions in the throat. Be careful not to push the fur further down if you can't see it clearly.

  3. Try to Dislodge the Fur: If you can see the fur, try to gently pull it out with tweezers. Never use your fingers as you might push the fur further down or injure your cat's throat.

  4. The Heimlich Maneuver for Cats: If you can't remove the fur, perform the feline Heimlich maneuver. Here’s how:

    • Lay your cat on its side.
    • Place both hands on either side of your cat's abdomen just below the rib cage.
    • Apply firm, quick pressure (about 2-4 inches deep) in a rhythmic motion, similar to performing CPR on a human. This should help dislodge the fur.

  5. Check Airway: After attempting to dislodge the fur, check your cat's airway again to see if the fur has been removed.

  6. Seek Veterinary Care: Even if you successfully remove the fur, it’s crucial to take your cat to a veterinarian as soon as possible. Cats can develop secondary infections or other complications from inhaling fur. Your vet can perform a thorough examination and provide any necessary treatment.

  7. Monitor for Symptoms: After the incident, keep an eye out for any unusual symptoms such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or difficulty breathing. If you notice any of these, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Preventing Future Incidents: To prevent your cat from choking on fur in the future:

  • Brush your cat regularly to remove loose fur.
  • Provide plenty of water to help keep your cat hydrated and reduce the likelihood of furballs forming.
  • Consider using a specialized cat food that helps control hairballs.

By following these steps, you can effectively address the situation if your cat chokes on fur and make sure your pet receives the care it needs.