In order to cool off, dogs frequently pant, but cats much less frequently do so, which can be a sign of a health issue. We’ll discuss a few possible causes for your cat’s panting or labored breathing as well as when to take your pet to the veterinarian immediately.
Panting In Cats
Although some panting in cats is common, it can also be a sign of a significant health issue that needs immediate veterinary attention. Start by evaluating the issue in light of the criteria listed below if you observe that your cat is panting or displaying labored breathing. It’s time to seek veterinary care if your cat seems to be breathing differently than usual or if heavy breathing persists for an extended period of time.
Normal Panting in Cats
Cats occasionally pant as a typical behavior. Consider for a moment what your cat was doing or going through just before you heard him panting. Like dogs, cats may pant when they are nervous, overheated, or after engaging in vigorous exercise. Once the cat has had a chance to relax, cool off, or rest, the panting caused by these causes should stop.
It’s crucial to remember that compared to dogs, our feline buddies rarely exhibit this type of panting. Therefore, it is worthwhile to see your veterinarian if you’re unsure of the cause of your cat’s panting.
Abnormal Breathing in Cats (Dyspnea)
If your cat is breathing laboriously but isn’t overheated, stressed out, or exhausted from exercise, it may be an indication of a serious medical condition. At that point, immediate veterinary care may be necessary.
Asthma
- The most typical signs of feline asthma include panting, wheezing, coughing, and an accelerated respiratory rate. Even though it may not be possible to completely treat a cat’s asthma, corticosteroids or bronchodilators can help with management.
Heartworm
- Breathing issues in cats with heartworm are possible. Heartworm can be treated with supportive care, oxygen therapy in more severe instances, and corticosteroids to minimize inflammation. It’s crucial to keep your cat on a monthly heartworm preventative medication because heartworm disease can be fatal.
Hydrothorax & Congestive Heart Failure
- The condition known as hydrothoraxis is characterized by the buildup of fluid in and around the lungs; it can lead to rapid, deep breathing as well as coughing and panting. In addition to medications to dilate blood vessels, eliminate extra fluid, and increase the heart’s contraction force, treatment options could include draining the fluid.
Respiratory Infections
- It may be hard for your cat to breathe normally if they have a respiratory infection. Cats who have respiratory illnesses may experience difficult breathing or panting. These illnesses in cats usually start out as viral infections but frequently progress to secondary bacterial infections. Your cat may need antibiotics to recover from their illness and breathe easier. As your cat heals, humidifiers and steam can assist in releasing mucus and ease nasal breathing.
Other Conditions
- Cats may pant or breathe heavily due to anemia, neurological conditions, trauma, enlargement of the abdomen, and pain.
