What should I do if my cat is lying motionless? - briefly
If your cat is lying motionless, immediately check for signs of breathing and a heartbeat. If there are none, seek veterinary care urgently, as this could indicate a serious medical emergency. If the cat is breathing, observe for any other symptoms such as vomiting, seizures, or unusual behavior, and contact your veterinarian for further guidance.
What should I do if my cat is lying motionless? - in detail
If you find your cat lying motionless, it is crucial to remain calm and assess the situation methodically. The first step is to ensure your own safety. Cats, even when unwell, can react instinctively if they feel threatened or in pain. Approach your cat gently and speak softly to avoid startling it.
Observe your cat's breathing and heart rate. Place your hand gently on your cat's chest or side to feel for any movement. Check for a heartbeat by placing your hand on the left side of the chest, just behind the elbow. A normal feline heart rate ranges from 120 to 140 beats per minute. If you cannot detect a heartbeat, proceed to check for a pulse on the inside of the hind leg, near the femoral artery. If there is no pulse, immediate veterinary attention is required.
Next, examine your cat's eyes. Lift the eyelid gently to check for pupil response. Normal pupils should constrict when exposed to light. If the pupils are dilated and do not react to light, this could indicate a serious issue. Additionally, check for any signs of injury or trauma. Look for any visible wounds, bleeding, or signs of pain. If you find any, document these observations as they will be vital information for your veterinarian.
If your cat is not breathing, begin feline CPR immediately. Place your cat on a flat surface and perform chest compressions by pressing down gently but firmly on the chest, just behind the elbows. The compression rate should be about 100-120 compressions per minute. After 30 compressions, give two rescue breaths by closing your cat's mouth and blowing gently into the nostrils. Continue this cycle until your cat shows signs of life or until you can transport your cat to a veterinary clinic.
If your cat is breathing but unresponsive, check for any signs of poisoning or ingestion of toxic substances. Look around the area where your cat was found for any potential hazards, such as open containers of medication, cleaning supplies, or plants that are toxic to cats. If you suspect poisoning, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison control hotline immediately. Provide them with detailed information about the suspected toxin and follow their instructions.
While waiting for veterinary assistance, keep your cat warm and comfortable. Wrap your cat in a blanket or towel to maintain body heat. Avoid moving your cat unnecessarily, as this could cause further injury. If you must transport your cat, do so carefully and securely in a carrier or a sturdy box.
Once you have stabilized your cat and ensured its immediate safety, contact your veterinarian or an emergency veterinary clinic. Provide them with a detailed account of your observations, including any signs of injury, breathing patterns, and heart rate. Be prepared to transport your cat to the clinic if advised to do so.
In summary, if you find your cat lying motionless, remain calm and assess the situation carefully. Check for breathing, heartbeat, and any signs of injury or poisoning. Provide immediate first aid if necessary and contact your veterinarian for further guidance. Your prompt and informed actions can significantly improve your cat's chances of recovery.