What should I do if my cat is choking and wheezing? - briefly
If your cat is choking and wheezing, immediately check the mouth and throat for any obstructions. If you can safely remove the obstruction, do so gently. If the cat is not breathing, perform feline CPR and seek veterinary assistance immediately. If you are unsure how to perform feline CPR, contact your veterinarian or an emergency pet hotline for guidance.
Here are the steps to follow:
- Check for Obstructions: Open the cat's mouth and look for any visible obstructions. If you can see something, try to remove it gently using your fingers or tweezers.
- Perform Feline CPR: If the cat is not breathing, place it on a flat surface. Perform chest compressions by pressing down on the chest with your fingers or palm, depending on the size of the cat. Follow this with rescue breaths by covering the cat's nose and mouth with your mouth and blowing gently.
- Seek Veterinary Help: Even if the cat starts breathing again, it is crucial to take it to a veterinarian as soon as possible. The cat may have sustained internal injuries or may require further medical attention.
Always stay calm and act quickly, as prompt action can significantly improve the chances of a positive outcome.
What should I do if my cat is choking and wheezing? - in detail
If your cat is choking and wheezing, it is a critical situation that requires immediate attention. The first step is to remain calm, as your cat will need your composed and quick actions to help them. Choking and wheezing can be caused by various issues, including foreign objects lodged in the throat, respiratory infections, asthma, or heart problems. Here is a detailed guide on how to handle this emergency.
Assess the situation quickly. If your cat is conscious, observe if they are trying to cough up something. If they are unconscious, you will need to act swiftly to clear the airway. For a conscious cat, do not attempt to open their mouth forcefully, as this can push the object further down the throat. Instead, try to encourage your cat to cough by gently patting their back or chest. If the object is visible and can be easily removed, use tweezers or your fingers to carefully extract it. Be cautious not to push the object further down the throat.
If your cat is unconscious, place them on a flat surface and open their mouth to check for any visible obstructions. If you see an object, carefully remove it using tweezers or your fingers. If the airway is clear but your cat is still not breathing, you will need to perform feline CPR. Place your cat on their side and locate the heart, which is situated just behind the left elbow. Perform chest compressions by pressing down firmly and quickly with your thumb or fingers at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute. After 30 compressions, give two rescue breaths by covering your cat's nose and mouth with your mouth and gently blowing air into their lungs. Continue this cycle of 30 compressions and two breaths until your cat starts breathing on their own or until you can get them to a veterinarian.
While performing these steps, it is crucial to seek professional veterinary help immediately. Call your veterinarian or an emergency animal clinic and explain the situation. They can provide guidance over the phone and prepare for your cat's arrival. If possible, have someone else drive you to the vet while you continue to administer first aid.
Once at the veterinarian, provide a detailed account of the events leading up to the choking and wheezing. This information will help the vet diagnose the underlying cause and provide appropriate treatment. The vet may perform additional tests, such as X-rays or blood work, to determine if there are any underlying health issues contributing to the choking and wheezing.
Prevention is always better than cure. To minimize the risk of choking, keep small objects, strings, and other potential hazards out of your cat's reach. Regular veterinary check-ups can also help detect and manage respiratory issues early. Ensure your cat's environment is safe and free from items that could pose a choking hazard. By taking these precautions, you can help keep your cat healthy and reduce the likelihood of such emergencies.