Heavy breathing is often a normal behavior for our canine companions, but not something we normally expect to see in cats. If your cat is breathing heavy and you can't determine why, it's best to err on the side of caution and contact your vet right away. Our Charlotte veterinarians delve into the topic of cat heavy breathing.
My cat seems to be panting, is that normal?
Since cats don't usually pant, heavy breathing can be an indication of a serious health concern that requires prompt veterinary care.
If you notice that your cat is breathing heavily start by assessing the situation based on the criteria below. If you are at all concerned with your cat's heavy breathing or if your kitty is displaying any other troubling symptoms, it's best to err on the side of caution and head to the vet for emergency care right away.
Cases When Heavy Breathing is Normal for Cats
While uncommon, in some cases, panting is normal behavior for cats. Take a moment to consider what your cat was doing or experiencing immediately before you noticed their panting.
Just like their canine counterparts, cats may pant if they become overheated, anxious, or following very strenuous exercise (such as being chased by a dog). If your cat is breathing heavy due to any of those reasons the panting should resolve itself once the cat has had an opportunity to calm down, cool down or rest.
Whenever cats experience breathing issues that lead them to pant or breathe heavy without obvious cause, it's time to contact your vet, or your nearest emergency vet.
Health Issues That Can Cause Dyspnea in Cats
The general term for breathing difficulties, heavy breathing or shortness of breath is dyspnea. Dyspnea in cats is considered to be respiratory distress and is considered to be a veterinary emergency.
If your cat isn't hot, stressed or tired from exercise, but their breathing is labored, it could be a sign of a serious medical issue.
Below are 5 common but serious conditions that can lead to dyspnea in cats:
Asthma
- Common signs of asthma in cats include heavy breathing with mouth open, panting, wheezing, and coughing, and increased respiratory rate. While asthma in cats may not be cured, it can be successfully managed with corticosteroids or bronchodilators.
Heartworm
- Heartworm in cats can cause breathing difficulties. Treatment for heartworm includes supportive care with corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and oxygen therapy in more serious cases. Heartworm disease is extremely serious and can be fatal, which is why our vets recommend keeping your cat on a monthly heartworm preventative medication.
Hydrothorax & Congestive Heart Failure
- Hydrothorax is is a condition characterized by the accumulation of fluid in and around the lungs which can cause deep, rapid breathing, coughing, and panting. Treatment may include draining the fluid, as well as medications to dilate blood vessels, get rid of excess fluid, and make the heart contract more forcefully.
Respiratory Infections
- If your feline friend has developed a respiratory infection it may be difficult for them to breathe normally. Respiratory infections can lead to heavy breathing or panting in cats. These infections typically begin as viral infections, but often develop into secondary bacterial infections. Antibiotics may be required to treat your cat's condition so that they can breathe easier. Humidifiers and steam can help loosen mucus and make nasal breathing easier as your cat recovers.
Other Conditions Which Can Lead To Cats Breathing Heavy
- Anemia, neurologic disorders, trauma, abdominal enlargement, and pain can also cause cats to pant or exhibit heavy breathing.
Caring For Your Cat's Long Term Health
If you are concerned about your cat's breathing veterinary care is important. After all, when it comes to your cat's health it's always better to err on the side of caution.
It's also important to remember that treatment is most effective when a condition is diagnosed early, before developing into a more severe health concern. Early treatment could save you money in the long run, and may help to protect your cat's health.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.