Where to find a cat's pulse? - briefly
A cat's pulse can be felt on the inner thigh near the femoral artery or by placing your fingers gently on the left side of its chest, just behind the front leg.
Where to find a cat's pulse? - in detail
Locating a cat’s pulse is essential for monitoring its health, especially in emergencies. The most reliable place to find a cat’s pulse is the femoral artery, located on the inner thigh. To locate it, gently place your fingers on the inside of the cat’s hind leg, near where the leg meets the body. Apply light pressure until you feel a rhythmic beat. This artery is close to the surface and provides a clear pulse reading. Another method is to check the chest area, just behind the left elbow, where the heartbeat can be felt by placing your hand firmly but gently. However, this method is less precise than the femoral artery due to the fur and muscle tissue. For accuracy, use your fingertips rather than your thumb, as the thumb has its own pulse that can interfere with detection. A normal resting pulse rate for a healthy cat ranges between 140 and 220 beats per minute, though this can vary depending on the cat’s size, age, and activity level. If the pulse is irregular, excessively fast, or slow, it may indicate a health issue, and veterinary attention should be sought immediately. Always handle your cat calmly and gently to avoid causing stress, which can elevate the pulse rate.