Emergency Guides

Access step-by-step guides for common pet emergencies. Know exactly what to do when every second counts.

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CRITICAL URGENCY

Cat Breathing Difficulty

Cats hide illness well — breathing problems are always an emergency

Signs & Symptoms
  • Open-mouth breathing (very abnormal in cats)
  • Breathing with neck extended
  • Blue or pale gums and tongue
  • Rapid, shallow breathing
  • Wheezing or crackling sounds
  • Sitting hunched with elbows out
What To Do
  1. 1Keep cat calm and still — stress worsens breathing
  2. 2Move to cool, well-ventilated area
  3. 3Do NOT force cat to walk or move
  4. 4Keep handling to minimum
  5. 5Go to emergency vet immediately
What NOT To Do
  • Don't restrain or stress the cat
  • Don't put cat in a carrier that restricts airflow
  • Don't delay — respiratory distress is rapidly fatal
  • Don't give any medications
Seek Veterinary Care When
  • Any open-mouth breathing in a cat
  • Blue or pale gums
  • Rapid or labored breathing
  • Cat appears to be working hard to breathe

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