What to do if a kitten stops breathing? - briefly
If a kitten stops breathing, immediately initiate rescue breathing by gently holding the kitten's mouth closed and breathing into its nose until you see chest movement. Seek veterinary assistance promptly, as professional intervention is crucial for the kitten's survival.
What to do if a kitten stops breathing? - in detail
If you encounter a situation where a kitten has stopped breathing, immediate and correct action is crucial. The first step is to remain calm and act swiftly. Panic can cloud judgment and waste precious time. Assess the kitten's condition by checking for any visible signs of trauma or distress. If the kitten is unconscious, gently place it on a flat, stable surface.
Begin by checking the kitten's airway. Open the kitten's mouth carefully and look for any obstructions such as food, hairballs, or foreign objects. If you see an obstruction, use your fingers to carefully remove it. Be cautious not to push the object further down the throat. If the airway is clear, proceed to check for breathing. Place your ear close to the kitten's nose and mouth to listen for breath sounds. You can also feel for air movement by placing your hand near the kitten's nose.
If the kitten is not breathing, initiate artificial respiration. For a kitten, this can be done through mouth-to-nose respiration. Gently close the kitten's mouth and seal your lips around its nose. Deliver a slow, steady breath into the kitten's nostrils. Watch for the chest to rise and fall with each breath. Deliver one breath every 3-4 seconds, which is approximately 15-20 breaths per minute. Continue this process for about 30-60 seconds.
While performing artificial respiration, it is essential to check for a heartbeat. Place your hand on the kitten's chest, just behind the front legs, to feel for a pulse. If there is no heartbeat, you will need to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in addition to artificial respiration. For a kitten, chest compressions should be done using two fingers placed over the heart. Compress the chest gently but firmly, about 1-1.5 inches deep, at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute. After 30 compressions, give two breaths. Continue this cycle of 30 compressions to 2 breaths until the kitten shows signs of life or until veterinary help arrives.
If the kitten starts breathing again, monitor its condition closely. Keep the kitten warm by wrapping it in a blanket or towel. Place the kitten in a quiet, draft-free area and observe for any changes in its condition. If the kitten does not respond to your efforts or if you are unsure about its condition, seek immediate veterinary care. Time is of the essence, and professional medical intervention can significantly improve the kitten's chances of survival.
In summary, if a kitten stops breathing, check for airway obstructions, initiate artificial respiration, and perform CPR if necessary. Keep the kitten warm and seek veterinary help promptly. Your quick and correct actions can make a critical difference in the kitten's outcome.