Heavy Breathing in Cats
Also referred to as rapid breathing (tachypnea) or shortness of breath (dyspnea), heavy breathing in cats can be caused by a number of factors. Before we look at these potential causes, let's discuss the normal breathing rate. A single breath includes inhaling (when the chest rises) and exhaling (when the chest falls). In healthy cats, the normal breathing rate should be between 20 and 30 breaths a minute.
To check your cat's breathing rate, you will want to ensure that your cat is relaxed but not sleeping or purring, as these can alter the speed of their breathing. You can use a watch or phone to monitor their breathing for 30 seconds, counting each breath (one cycle of the chest rising and falling). Then, multiply the number you arrive at by two to determine how many breaths your cat takes in a minute while resting.
You now have your cat's normal breathing rate and can use this number to compare against any time you are concerned that they may be breathing heavier than usual.
Breathing difficulties can affect cats of any breed or age, and the problem can quickly become life-threatening. If your cat displays signs of respiratory problems, you should take them to your primary care veterinarian or our emergency veterinary hospital in Halifax as soon as possible.
Why is heavy breathing in cats a concern?
Unlike dogs, cats do not often pant. Generally, the only time that heavy breathing in cats is normal will be after strenuous exercise. Other than a sigh or yawn, heavy breathing while your cat is resting may indicate potentially serious health issues, like heart failure or lung disease.
Why is my cat breathing heavy?
Tachypnea or dyspnea in cats can have several potential causes, many serious or even life-threatening. Some of these health issues include:
- Asthma & Chronic Bronchitis: Cats experiencing asthma and chronic bronchitis may display symptoms like laboured breathing, wheezing, and coughing.
- Cancer: Many types of cancer, like lung cancer (pulmonary adenocarcinoma or bronchogenic adenocarcinoma), can affect a cat’s respiratory system.
- Heartworms: Some mosquitoes are infected with larval Dirofilaria immitis parasites, which can be transmitted to cats when they are bitten, resulting in heartworms. This, however, is quite uncommon in Nova Scotia.
- Infections: Viruses, bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms can cause infections in the upper respiratory system, such as tracheobronchitis and pneumonia.
- Heart Disease: Heart problems can impact blood circulation and cause fluid to build up in or around the lungs, resulting in an enlarged heart and subsequent breathing issues.
- Fluid or Gas Around the Lungs: The accumulation (build-up) of blood, pus, chyle (a fatty liquid), and other fluids or gas in the chest cavity can make it difficult for the lungs to expand.
- Trauma: Injuries to both the chest and other parts of the body can result in pain, bleeding, neurologic dysfunction, or movement of abdominal organs into the chest cavity, all of which can cause heavy breathing in cats.
- Toxins & Medications: Poisons, toxins, and medications can impact your cat's body and blood and make breathing difficult. For example, cats should never be given acetaminophen (Tylenol) because it can affect the ability of the red blood cells to carry oxygen.
- Foreign Objects: Cats can inhale or swallow objects that may then become lodged in airways and prevent normal breathing.
- Fever: Fevers in cats can result in an increased respiratory rate
What to Do if Your Cat is Panting
Heavy breathing in cats should never be ignored. If your feline friend is breathing heavier or faster than usual, or if they seem to be gasping for air, make an appointment with your primary care veterinarian or call Coastal Care Veterinary Emergency & Referral Hospital right away.
Our skilled emergency veterinary team is available 24/7, 365 days a year, to provide vital medical attention to pets quickly and efficiently in Halifax.
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 veterinarian.