What to do if a cat makes strange sounds and is choking? - briefly
If your cat is making strange sounds and appears to be choking, immediately perform the Heimlich maneuver by placing both hands on either side of their ribcage and applying firm pressure in an upward motion. This should help dislodge any obstruction.
What to do if a cat makes strange sounds and is choking? - in detail
If your cat starts making unusual noises, especially if accompanied by signs of distress such as pawing at the mouth or throat, it could indicate that they are choking. Here’s what you need to do:
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Stay Calm: It is essential to remain calm and composed. Cats are very perceptive and can sense your anxiety, which may exacerbate their distress.
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Assess the Situation: Quickly observe your cat’s behavior and posture. If they are pawing at their mouth or throat, gagging, retching, or making high-pitched noises, these are all indicators of choking.
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Open Your Cat's Mouth: Gently but firmly grasp your cat’s jaw with one hand and use your thumb to press down on the lower jaw, while using your index finger to lift the upper lip. This should open your cat’s mouth sufficiently for you to inspect inside.
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Check for Obstructions: Look for any foreign objects such as string, bones, or pieces of food that might be lodged in their throat. Be careful not to push the object further down if it is close to the entrance of the esophagus.
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Dislodge the Object: If you can see and reach the obstruction safely, try to dislodge it using your fingers or a pair of tweezers. Be extremely cautious not to hurt your cat’s throat or push the object further down.
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Perform the Heimlich Maneuver: If you cannot remove the object or if your cat collapses, perform the feline version of the Heimlich maneuver. Place your cat on a flat surface, position yourself behind them, and press firmly but gently with both hands just below their rib cage. Apply steady pressure in a thrusting motion, similar to CPR. Repeat this several times if necessary.
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Seek Veterinary Care: Immediately after attempting to dislodge the object or performing the Heimlich maneuver, take your cat to a veterinarian as soon as possible. Even if you successfully remove the object, your cat may still require professional care to ensure there is no internal damage.
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Prevent Future Incidents: To prevent future choking incidents, keep small objects and hazardous materials out of reach. Ensure that any toys or playthings are too large for your cat to swallow whole.
By following these steps, you can effectively manage a choking incident with your cat and ensure their safety and well-being.