My cat is choking and wheezing, what should I do? - briefly
If your cat is choking and wheezing, immediately check for any visible obstructions in the mouth or throat. If you can safely remove the obstruction, do so gently. If the cat is not breathing, perform feline CPR and seek veterinary assistance immediately.
Here are the steps to follow:
- Check for Obstructions: Look inside the cat's mouth for any visible obstructions. If you see something, carefully try to remove it using your fingers or tweezers.
- Perform Feline CPR: If the cat is not breathing, place your cat on a flat surface. Perform chest compressions by pressing down gently but firmly on the cat's chest, just behind the elbows, 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.
- Seek Veterinary Help: Immediately contact your veterinarian or an emergency veterinary clinic for further instructions and assistance. Time is crucial, so act quickly and calmly.
Remember, the safety of both you and your cat is paramount. If you are unsure about performing these steps, seek professional help immediately.
My cat is choking and wheezing, what should I do? - in detail
When a cat is choking and wheezing, it is a critical situation that requires immediate attention. The first step is to remain calm and act swiftly to ensure the safety and well-being of the animal. Choking in cats can be caused by various factors, including ingestion of foreign objects, respiratory infections, or allergic reactions. Wheezing, on the other hand, may indicate an obstruction in the airways or a respiratory issue.
Assess the situation quickly. If the cat is conscious and able to breathe, but is wheezing, it may have an obstruction in the throat or lungs. Gently open the cat's mouth and look for any visible obstructions. If an object is seen, carefully attempt to remove it using your fingers or tweezers. Be cautious not to push the object further down the throat. If the object is not visible or cannot be removed easily, do not attempt to force it out, as this could cause further damage.
If the cat is unconscious or not breathing, immediate action is necessary. Perform feline CPR if you are trained to do so. Place the cat on a flat surface and check for a heartbeat. If there is no heartbeat, begin chest compressions by placing your hands on either side of the cat's chest and compressing gently but firmly. After 30 compressions, give two rescue breaths by covering the cat's nose and mouth with your mouth and blowing gently. Continue this cycle until the cat shows signs of breathing or until veterinary help arrives.
Contact a veterinarian or an emergency animal clinic immediately. Provide them with details about the cat's symptoms and any actions you have taken. They may offer guidance over the phone or instruct you to bring the cat in for urgent care. If possible, have someone else drive you to the vet while you monitor the cat's condition.
While waiting for veterinary assistance, keep the cat calm and warm. Wrap the cat in a blanket to prevent shock and reduce stress. Avoid giving the cat any food or water, as this could exacerbate the situation if there is an obstruction.
Upon arrival at the veterinary clinic, the vet will perform a thorough examination to determine the cause of the choking and wheezing. They may use diagnostic tools such as X-rays, endoscopy, or blood tests to identify the underlying issue. Treatment will depend on the diagnosis but may include removing the obstruction, administering medication, or providing oxygen therapy.
Prevention is crucial in avoiding such emergencies. Keep small objects, strings, and other potential choking hazards out of the cat's reach. Regular veterinary check-ups can help detect and address respiratory issues early. Ensuring a safe and hazard-free environment for your cat is essential for its overall health and well-being.