What to do if the cat is not breathing at home? - briefly
If you find that your cat is not breathing at home, immediate action is crucial. Perform feline CPR by placing your cat on a flat surface, checking for a heartbeat, and administering chest compressions if necessary. Here are the steps to follow:
- Check for breathing and heartbeat: Place your cat on a flat surface and observe if the chest is moving. Feel for a heartbeat by placing your hand on the left side of the chest, behind the front leg.
- Begin chest compressions: If there is no heartbeat, position your cat on their right side and place your hands over the heart. Compress the chest gently but firmly at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute.
- Administer rescue breaths: After 30 compressions, give two rescue breaths by closing the cat's mouth and breathing into the nostrils until the chest rises.
- Continue CPR: Alternate between 30 compressions and 2 rescue breaths until the cat shows signs of life or veterinary help arrives.
- Seek immediate veterinary care: While performing CPR, have someone contact a veterinarian or an emergency animal clinic for further instructions and to prepare for the cat's arrival.
Performing CPR on a cat can be stressful, but quick and calm actions can significantly improve the chances of saving the cat's life.
What to do if the cat is not breathing at home? - in detail
If you find your cat is not breathing at home, it is crucial to remain calm and act swiftly. The first step is to confirm that the cat is indeed not breathing. Check for any signs of respiration by observing the chest for movement and feeling for breath near the nose or mouth. If there is no breathing, immediate action is necessary.
Place the cat on a flat, stable surface. Ensure the environment is quiet and free from disturbances to minimize stress. Gently tilt the cat's head back to open the airway. Check the mouth for any obstructions, such as food or foreign objects, and remove them if present. Be cautious not to push any object further down the throat.
Next, perform feline CPR. The technique involves chest compressions and rescue breathing. Place your cat on its right side. Locate the heart by placing your hand on the left side of the chest, just behind the elbow. Apply gentle but firm pressure to the chest, compressing it about 1 to 1.5 inches, or one-third to one-half the width of the chest. Perform 100-120 compressions per minute. After 30 compressions, give two rescue breaths. To do this, close the cat's mouth and seal your lips around the nose. Gently breathe into the nose until you see the chest rise. Repeat the cycle of 30 compressions and 2 breaths until the cat starts breathing on its own or until you can transport the cat to a veterinary clinic.
While performing CPR, it is essential to seek professional help immediately. Contact your veterinarian or an emergency veterinary clinic and follow their instructions. Provide them with details about the cat's condition and the steps you have taken. If possible, have someone else make the call while you continue CPR.
Transport the cat to the veterinary clinic as quickly as possible. Place the cat in a secure carrier or wrap it in a blanket to keep it warm and prevent further injury. Drive carefully but swiftly to the clinic. Inform the veterinary staff upon arrival that you have performed CPR and provide them with any relevant information about the incident.
Upon arrival at the veterinary clinic, the veterinarian will assess the cat's condition and provide necessary medical treatment. This may include oxygen therapy, fluid administration, and further diagnostic tests to determine the cause of the respiratory arrest. The veterinarian will also monitor the cat's vital signs and provide supportive care as needed.
It is important to note that performing CPR on a cat can be challenging and may not always be successful. The outcome depends on various factors, including the underlying cause of the respiratory arrest and the timeliness of the intervention. Regular veterinary check-ups and preventive care can help identify potential health issues early and reduce the risk of such emergencies.
In summary, if your cat is not breathing at home, confirm the absence of respiration, clear the airway, perform feline CPR, seek professional help, and transport the cat to a veterinary clinic promptly. Follow the veterinarian's instructions and provide necessary information to ensure the best possible outcome for your cat.