What to do if a cat has a heart attack?

What to do if a cat has a heart attack? - briefly

If your cat is experiencing a heart attack, immediately contact your veterinarian for emergency advice. While waiting for instructions or transportation to the clinic, keep your cat calm and in a quiet, comfortable environment.

What to do if a cat has a heart attack? - in detail

If your cat is experiencing a heart attack, also known as cardiac arrest, prompt action is crucial. While cats are generally resilient, immediate intervention can significantly improve their chances of survival. Here's what you need to do:

1. Stay Calm: It's essential to remain calm and composed. Cats are sensitive to their owner's emotions, so your composure will help keep them calm.

2. Check for Breathing: Gently place your hand on the cat's chest or side to feel for breaths. If there is no breathing, you need to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).

3. Perform CPR:

   • Lay the cat on its side.
   • Place your hands on either side of the cat's ribcage and compress gently but firmly. Aim for about 100-120 compressions per minute. The depth should be approximately one-third to half the width of the cat’s chest.
   • After every 30 compressions, give two quick breaths into the cat's nose. Ensure there is no airflow resistance; if you feel resistance, reposition the cat's head and try again.
   • Continue this cycle until the cat resumes breathing on its own or until you reach a veterinary clinic.

4. Transport to a Veterinarian: As soon as possible, transport your cat to a veterinarian. Even if the cat starts breathing again, it's crucial to get professional care immediately to address any underlying issues and ensure long-term health.

5. Monitor Vital Signs: Keep an eye on the cat’s vital signs during transport. If possible, have someone else drive so you can focus on maintaining the cat’s breathing and pulse.

6. Administer Oxygen if Available: If you have access to oxygen, administer it using a mask or nasal tube. This can help stabilize the cat's condition until you reach the veterinary clinic.

7. Provide Comfort: Keep the cat warm during transport. You can use a blanket or your own body heat to maintain its temperature.

8. Follow Veterinary Instructions: Once at the vet, follow their instructions explicitly. They may administer medications, perform additional procedures, and provide ongoing care based on the cat's condition.

9. Post-Incident Care: After the immediate crisis has passed, ensure your cat gets plenty of rest and follows any prescribed dietary or medication regimen. Regular follow-ups with the vet are essential to monitor recovery.

By following these steps, you can significantly increase your cat's chances of surviving a heart attack. Always remember that prompt action and professional veterinary care are key to successful outcomes.