What to do if a cat is not breathing and not moving? - briefly
If a cat is not breathing and not moving, immediately check for a heartbeat by placing your hand on the cat's chest. If there is no heartbeat, begin CPR by performing chest compressions and artificial respiration.
If the cat is not responsive, seek immediate veterinary assistance. Ensure the cat is in a safe and warm environment while awaiting professional help. Here are the steps to follow:
- Place the cat on a flat surface.
- Open the cat's airway by gently pulling the tongue forward.
- Check for breathing by holding a mirror or your cheek near the cat's nose to feel for breath.
- If there is no breathing, perform mouth-to-nose respiration by sealing your mouth over the cat's nose and gently blowing air until the chest rises.
- Administer chest compressions by placing your hands over the cat's heart and pressing down firmly and quickly at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute.
- Continue CPR until the cat shows signs of life or veterinary help arrives.
What to do if a cat is not breathing and not moving? - in detail
If you encounter a situation where a cat is not breathing and not moving, immediate and decisive action is crucial. The first step is to ensure your own safety and the safety of others. Cats, even when unconscious, may react instinctively if touched, so approach with caution.
Begin by checking for responsiveness. Gently tap the cat's paws or call its name to see if there is any reaction. If the cat does not respond, proceed to check for breathing. Place your cheek near the cat's nose and mouth to feel for breath and listen for any sounds of respiration. Look for the rise and fall of the chest, which indicates breathing. If there is no breathing, move quickly to the next steps.
Place the cat on a flat, stable surface. Ensure the cat is lying on its right side. This position helps to keep the airway open and allows for easier access to the chest for compressions. Open the cat's mouth and check for any obstructions, such as food or foreign objects. If an obstruction is present, carefully remove it using your fingers or tweezers. Be gentle to avoid pushing the object further down the throat.
Once the airway is clear, begin artificial respiration. Close the cat's mouth and cover its nose with your mouth. Give two gentle breaths, each lasting about two seconds. Watch for the chest to rise with each breath. If the chest does not rise, reposition the cat's head and try again. After giving two breaths, check for a pulse by feeling the femoral artery, located on the inside of the hind leg, near the groin. If there is no pulse, proceed to chest compressions.
Place your hands one on top of the other on the cat's chest, just behind the front legs. Compress the chest downward about 1 to 1.5 inches, or one-third to one-half the width of the chest. Give 30 compressions at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute. After 30 compressions, give two more breaths. Continue this cycle of 30 compressions and two breaths until the cat shows signs of life, such as breathing or movement, or until veterinary help arrives.
While performing these steps, it is essential to keep a calm and focused demeanor. Panic can lead to mistakes and delays in providing effective care. If possible, have someone else call a veterinarian or an emergency pet clinic for immediate guidance and to inform them of the situation. Provide clear and concise information about the cat's condition and follow any additional instructions given by the veterinary professional.
Once the cat begins to breathe or show signs of consciousness, monitor its condition closely. Keep the cat warm and quiet, and avoid handling it unnecessarily. Transport the cat to the nearest veterinary clinic as soon as possible for a thorough examination and further treatment. Even if the cat appears to have fully recovered, underlying issues may still be present and require professional attention.
In summary, responding to a cat that is not breathing and not moving involves a series of critical steps: ensuring safety, checking for responsiveness and breathing, clearing the airway, performing artificial respiration and chest compressions, and seeking immediate veterinary care. Quick and accurate action can significantly improve the cat's chances of survival and recovery.