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Rated as Moderate Condition
MOST C OMMON SYMPTOMS Anemia
Coughing
Gagging
Lethargy
CAUSES
DIAGNOSIS
TREATMENT
RECOVERY
R A PID B R EA TH IN G A VER A GE C OST From 364 quotes ranging from $200 - 2,000
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Jump to Section Causes
Diagnosis
Treatment
Recovery
Advice
What is Rapid Breathing? A normal healthy cat will take 20-30 regular breaths per minute. The air travels into your cat’s lungs and is used to oxygenate the blood, which is then circulated throughout your cat’s vital organs. When a cat is suffering from rapid breathing, this breath rate increases and often becomes irregular, or shallow. This can often be an indication that your cat is not able to bring enough oxygen into the lungs to supply their body’s need. Rapid breathing is a symptom that can be caused by a number of illnesses or injuries. Since regular breathing is vital, if your cat is suffering from rapid breathing (also known as tachypnea) it is a serious and life threatening condition and you should seek immediate veterinary care.
Symptoms of Rapid Breathing in Cats It can be difficult, if not impossible, to actually count the number of breaths your cat is taking. There are a number of other indications, either gradually occurring over time or acute or sudden in onset, to watch for that would indicate your cat is having difficulties breathing. These include: Blue tinged tongue, lips, or nose Coughing or gagging Lethargy or unwillingness to move Lack of energy Rapidly rising and falling stomach or chest Open-mouth breathing Lowered heads with extension of neck and body forward, indicating difficulty in bringing in oxygen
Causes of Rapid Breathing in Cats Rapid breathing is a symptom with a number of underlying illnesses and injury as potential causes. The most common of these include: Trauma or injury Tumors in chest or throat Respiratory infections Pulmonary edema (lungs filling with fluid) Pneumonia Asthma Allergic reaction Foreign objects lodged in windpipe or other airway obstruction Pain, stress or shock
Diagnosis of Rapid Breathing in Cats Diagnosis of rapid breathing in your cat will require your veterinarian to determine the underlying cause. This will involve diagnostic tests that may not seem related to breathing, such as blood work, urinalysis and other extensive systemic exams. Given the lengthy list of potential conditions, it will be important for you to provide your veterinarian with a thorough physical and medical history of your cat. If your cat is allowed outdoors, has recently suffered from a traumatic injury, or could potentially have fallen from a high surface, this will be important information to help identify potential trauma or pain. You should also provide your vet with a history of progression of symptoms such as approximate time of onset and any worsening or improvement. This will help your veterinarian narrow down potential causes. Blood work will identify the presence of any infections and will involve a quick needle stick procedure, done in your veterinarian’s office. Depending on the results from a preliminary physical exam, review of symptoms, and blood work, your veterinarian may wish to order imaging of your cat’s chest area. Images such as x-rays or an ultrasound will help identify any fluid buildup, foreign objects, or potential tumors, masses or foreign objects that may be causing the heavy breathing. Depending on your cat, your vet may order a mild sedative be given to your cat to potential limit movement. Your cat remaining calm and still will have a large impact on the clarity of the images. If heartworm is suspected, your vet will be able to perform a simple in office blood test to confirm whether your cat is infected with the parasite.
Treatment of Rapid Breathing in Cats Treatment of rapid breathing in your cat will be tailored to the specific cause of the condition. In the case of infections, pneumonia, or fluid filling the lungs, your vet will prescribe strong antibiotics to help fight off the infections. In many cases, your cat may need to be hospitalized so that they can be provided round the clock supportive care such as fluids, IV antibiotics, and administration of oxygen. If your cat is suffering from shock or pain as a result of trauma, if no broken bones are detected your vet will often take a conservative approach and allow your cat to be released to go home with a prescription for pain medication. You will need to provide a safe, warm and quiet place for your cat to heal and recover. Allergies will be treated with antihistamines and ongoing medication dosage in the case of seasonal or non acute reactions.
Recovery of Rapid Breathing in Cats Long term prognosis for recovery of your cat will vary from cause to cause. Infections and pneumonia are serious illnesses that need a high degree of specialized veterinary care. In all cases, your cat’s chances for a full recovery will increase if immediate veterinarian care is sought as soon as initial symptoms are detected. Additionally, given the seriousness of lung and breathing issues, you should follow up after symptoms in your cat have resolved in order to prevent potential recurrence.
Rapid Breathing Questions and Advice from Veterinary Professionals
Gremlin
Tabby
4 Years
0 found helpful
Serious condition
H AS SYMPTOMS
Rapid Breathing
My cat has been demonstrating dyspnea. He has a decrease in appetite and hasn’t been able to sleep. We brought him to the vet to be checked in which they stated they drained an abcess and have him an antibiotic, to which he was ok for a day in which they symptoms returned once again. What should I do? 1 day, 1 hour ago
Gremlin's Owner
Dr. Callum Turner, DVM
1968 Recommendations
If the symptoms have returned, you should visit your Veterinarian again since the abscess may need draining again especially if it enlarges placing pressure on a section of the respiratory tract. You should continue with the antibiotics but please return to your Veterinarian if Gremlin is struggling to breathe. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM 1 day, 1 hour ago
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Edward
Ginger
3 Years
0 found helpful
Serious condition
H AS SYMPTOMS
Wheezing, Shallow Breathing
My cat had an leg amputation two days ago, he recoverd fine and this morning he was walking in the house, eating and using the sand box. Suddenly this afternoon he began to act very strange he began breathing heavily and a few hours ago he started to wheeze and he wants to vomit but nothing comes out. I am really worried I did phone my vet she said it is normal for them to experience great pain. He received tolfedine for pain to be taken in the mornings, could it be the pain medication has wornbeen off and he is experiencing pain or is it something else? 3 days, 19 hours ago
Edward's Owner
Dr. Michele King, DVM
475 Recommendations
Thank you for your email. That doesn't sound like normal behavior, and animals, like people, can have clotting issues after a major surgery like that. Whether it is pain, or whether it is something else, he should probably be reassessed today by your veterinarian. They'll be able to check his pulses, and his breathing, and prescribe him more pain medications if he is in that much pain. I hope that he is okay. 3 days, 15 hours ago
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Mooncake
Persian
4 Months
0 found helpful
Moderate condition
H AS SYMPTOMS
Rapid Breathing
Hello, so after I had a party at my house a few days ago, my cat has been very weak, sleeping all the time, won't eat or drink as much as he used to, and breathing rapidly. I tried bringing him to a vet a couple of days ago and they said it was only stress due to the loud music and crowds from the party, and they told me to give him liquid food along with vitamins every hour for a few days. I've done that for a couple of days but it seems like my cat's breathing actually had gotten more shallow and heavy. I'm afraid that the vet misdiagnosed my cat (I don't trust the credibility of that vet, since they're not the one I'm used to go to), do you think there's anything more than just stress? Also if it helps, he's just gotten his first vaccination around last week. Thank you 4 days, 9 hours ago
Mooncake's Owner
Dr. Michele King, DVM
475 Recommendations
Thank you for your email. I do think that there might be more going on than stress, and kittens are prone to infectious diseases. If you don't trust that veterinarian that you saw, it would be a good idea to find a second opinion, even if you have to travel a bit to do so, as he could have a problem that needs to be treated. You can also call your veterinarian, let them know that he isn't getting better, and see if they have any other recommendations for him. 4 days, 2 hours ago
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Mooncake
Persian
4 Months
0 found helpful
Moderate condition
H AS SYMPTOMS
Rapid Breathing
After I had a party at my house a few days ago, my cat has been acting very differently. He sleeps all day and only gets up to pee or poop, doesn't eat and drink as much as he used to, and starts breathing more rapidly and heavily. I've brought him to a vet and they said that it's likely due to stress caused by the party, and for the past couple of days I've been giving him liquid food and vitamins with a pipette, but I feel like his breathing has actually gone worse. I'm just afraid that the vet misdiagnosed him (since I live in a rural town in Indonesia, I don't really trust the vet here), so do you think there's something more going on than just stress? Oh and if it helps, my cat had just done his first vaccination about a week ago. Thank you 4 days, 9 hours ago
Mooncake's Owner
Dr. Michele King, DVM
475 Recommendations
Thank you for your email. I do think that there might be more going on than stress, and kittens are prone to infectious diseases. If you don't trust that veterinarian that you saw, it would be a good idea to find a second opinion, even if you have to travel a bit to do so, as he could have a problem that needs to be treated. You can also call your veterinarian, let them know that he isn't getting better, and see if they have any other recommendations for him. 4 days, 2 hours ago
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Tortie
American
5 Years
1 found helpful
Mild condition
Shorthair
H AS SYMPTOMS
Rapid Breathing
For as long as I can remember my 5 year old cat has intermittent rapid breathing. She doesn't seem bothered by this and she doesn't have any other symptoms when she is breathing quickly. I always forget to ask about this when she is at the vet and her breathing is always normal there. When her breathing is fast it's around 70 75 breaths per minute and normal is around 32. The intermittent fast breathing last maybe a few minutes and then goes back to normal. 1 week, 4 days ago
Tortie's Owner
Dr. Michele King, DVM
475 Recommendations
Thank you for your email. Since Tortie was just seen by your veterinarian and was deemed healthy, her periodic bouts of rapid breathing may be normal, and may follow bouts of exertion or anxiety. If the periods that she is breathing rapidly become more frequent, or more severe, it would be a good idea to have her seen by your veterinarian and examined to make sure that she is okay. It might be helpful to video the episode, since she doesn't seem to breathe that way when she is at an appointment. I hope that she is okay! 1 week, 4 days ago
Thank you for your reply! 1 week, 2 days ago
Tortie's Owner
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Sharleen
Dlh
15 Years
0 found helpful
Serious condition
H AS SYMPTOMS
Swollen Lower Lip
Not Active
Urinate Lots And Often
Drink Lots Of Water
Rapid Breathing MED IC ATION U SED
None
Sharleen ear temperature change hot to cold 4 times overnight. Sound stuffy when purr. Breath heavily and urinate lots and often last few weeks. Took her to the vet for blood work and check up today. She seem worse and in pain. Lower lip is now swollen, right front leg a little limping. Not active all afternoon. Night fall and she seem restless. What can I do to ease her pain while waiting for blood work result? 1 month ago
Sharleen's Owner
Dr. Michele King, DVM
475 Recommendations
Thank you for your email. Without seeing Sharleen, I can't recommend any medication or therapies for her, and many OTC pain medications are toxic to cats. Your veterinarian will be able to recommend something for her discomfort since they have seen her and know her history. It would be a great idea to call them and let them know that you think she is in pain, and follow any recommendations that they may have. I hope that everything goes well for her. 1 month ago
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Stuart
Maine Coon
9 Months
1 found helpful
Mild condition
H AS SYMPTOMS
Cough
Hello, I took my 9 month old Maine Coon to the vet 2 days ago to get a couple of mats shaved. I tried and was unsuccessful. It was a very stressful event for him, it took 3 people :( He started coughing and breathing very heavy last night. He is eating well but the quick breathing and coughing is continuing. Could this be related to stress? I am scared to stress him out more by taking him in. Thank you, Lorie 1 month ago
Stuart's Owner
Dr. Michele King, DVM
475 Recommendations
Thank you for your email. It would be best to have him examined by your veterinarian, yes - if he had any type of underlying heart problem that you weren't aware of, they stress of being restrained may have caused fluid to build up around his heart and lungs. They may want to take an x-ray to make sure that he is okay, but it isn't normal for him to still be breathing heavily and coughing 2 days after the event. I hope that he is okay. 1 month ago
Thank you for responding to my question. I did take Stuart in this morning. His vet was also concerned about a heart issue. Thankfully, it turns out, after x-rays, to be asthma. I never thought I'd be so happy about my kitty having an asthma attack but, the alternative was so much worse. Thank you again! 1 month ago
Stuart's Owner
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Hugo
British Shorthair
1 Year
0 found helpful
Moderate condition
H AS SYMPTOMS
Rapid Breathing
My cat seems to be breathing rapidly like he is our of breath when hes lying down.hes not off his food and is still getting about and using the litter tray etc 1 month ago
Hugo's Owner
Dr. Callum Turner, DVM
1968 Recommendations
Causes for an increase in respiratory rate may include pain, infections, heart disease, respiratory tract obstruction, increased temperature among others; a cat’s resting respiratory rate shouldn’t be higher than around 40 breaths per minute, if it is higher than this then I would advise you visit your Veterinarian for an examination to determine the underlying cause. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM 1 month ago
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Chester
Siberian
12 Weeks
0 found helpful
Moderate condition
H AS SYMPTOMS
Rapid Breathing
Hello. I have recently got a 12 week old kitten. He's very friendly, eating and drinking fine, playful, albeit frequently tired. His breathing is constantly rapid, even when sleeping, over 100/minute. He is very skinny and "ribby". Do you have any advice on what it may be? 1 month, 1 week ago
Chester's Owner
Dr. Callum Turner, DVM
1968 Recommendations
If Chester’s respiratory rate is over 100 breaths per minute you should visit your Veterinarian immediate for an examination since this is well over physiological range; infections, anaemia, allergies, congenital anomalies, foreign objects, fluid, parasites among other causes may be the underlying cause. I cannot give you any at home advice in a case this severe except to visit a Veterinarian for a thorough examination. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM 1 month, 1 week ago
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Missy
DMH
5 Years
0 found helpful
Moderate condition
H AS SYMPTOMS
Rapid Breathing
A stray cat showed up at my house a couple days ago. She is very thin and I've started her on small throughout the day. She is eating, drinking, voiding, and stooling okay. Eyes, ears, and nose are all clear. The only major thing I've noticed is rapid breathing when purring or stress (loud noises make her skittish). I have pets of my own and really cannot afford a costly vet visit, and our local shelter and a rescue are overwhelmed with companion animals at this time. I've started her on antibiotics and am keeping her isolated from my own pets. My daughter has asthma and this looks very similar. Any advice? I've found out that her previous owner passed away and a neighbour tried to bring her to her house, the cat bolted and they couldn't find her, 3 weeks later she showed up at my place. She is a spayed 5 year old female who was up to date on shots. 1 month, 1 week ago
Missy's Owner
Dr. Michele King, DVM
475 Recommendations
Thank you for your email. Without examining Missy, I can't comment on what might be going on. She may just be a skittish cat, given all of the change that has gone on in her life recently. IF she is eating and drinking normally, and seems healthy otherwise, she may be okay. If she seems to be having breathing problems. it would be best to have her seen by your veterinarian, and they will be able to determine if she is normal, or has a problem. It is nice of you to help this cat when she needs it. I hope that she is okay. 1 month, 1 week ago
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Paige
Tiger
3 Years
0 found helpful
Moderate condition
H AS SYMPTOMS
Coughing
I had to take my cat to the vet about a month ago, as she was coughing. The vet had said she was healthy, but he thought the coughing was due to a hair ball. We put her on a medication, but unfortunately the medication has not been working. I'm starting to notice that my cat is having a decreased appetite, and she's not as crazy, happy as normal. I'm concerned that this could be that she's allergic to something, or something is going on with the weather? I'm taking her to the vet on Saturday morning to get a better examination, but I wanted to see if you had any other suggestions, or if you could prepare me. Thank you! 1 month, 1 week ago
Paige's Owner
Dr. Michele King, DVM
475 Recommendations
Thank you for your email. I'm glad that you have a scheduled appointment with Paige, as if the medications did not work, it deserves a second look. One thing that your veterinarian can do is to take an x-ray of her lungs and make sure that there is nothing to worry about there. If she isn't on heartworm prevention, a heartworm test might be a good idea as well. Without knowing the details of her situation, or being able to examine her, I can't comment more on what might be happening with her. I hope that she recovers well! 1 month, 1 week ago
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Billi
Farmer
4 Years
1 found helpful
Moderate condition
H AS SYMPTOMS
Breathibg Fast
Breathing fast My cat is breathing fast and today after the x-ray it showed that he has got a tumor. I wanted to ask if something can be done. He also have positive leukosis, but everthing seems to be normal. 1 month, 2 weeks ago
Billi's Owner
Dr. Michele King, DVM
475 Recommendations
Thank you for your question, and I am sorry about Billi. Unfortunately, without seeing the x-ray, knowing where or how large the tumor is, I can't comment on possible solutions. Lung masses are difficult to treat and tend not to respond well to therapy, but it really does depend on the type of mass, and he is quite young to have lung cancer. Sometimes we are able to to a tracheal wash to try and identify the type of cells, but I'm not sure if that is an option for Billi. Any possible treatments would be a good conversation with your veterinarian, who has seen Billi, and his x-rays, and knows more about his situation. I hope that he does well. 1 month, 2 weeks ago
Thanks for the quick reply. I have discussed it with the veterinarian and seems difficult due to his postive leukosis, also the tumor is grown alot, due to which its difficult to breathe for him. 1 month, 1 week ago
Billi's Owner
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Kai
Unknown
6 Months
1 found helpful
Fair condition
H AS SYMPTOMS
Breaths Faster At Rest
My kitten (6 months) is breathing about 70 times within 60 seconds. I’m not really sure what to do in this case. He also has the sagging part of skin towards his back legs on his stomach and I’m not sure if it’s just excess skin or something more severe and might be a reason for his breathing increase 1 month, 2 weeks ago
Kai's Owner
Dr. Michele King, DVM
475 Recommendations
Thank you for you email. unfortunately, without examining Kai, i can't comment on what might be going on with him. He needs to see his veterinarian to try and determine what is going on with him and how to treat him. If he seems to be in distress and unable to catch his breath, taking him to the emergency clinic tonight is most appropriate. I hope that he is okay. 1 month, 2 weeks ago
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Merlin
Unknown/ Moggy
9 Years
0 found helpful
Fair condition
My cat is about 9 years old, and about two days ago his breathing started to become very rapid at about 60-80 breaths per minute. He is eating properly and acting normally and doesn't appear to be in pain. Is there any reason this could be as this hasn't happened to any of our previous cats. He is also very healthy and has only gone to the vets for mess once for a urine infection he always has the de wormer and the anti flea drops as well as his vaccines 1 month, 2 weeks ago
Merlin's Owner
Dr. Michele King, DVM
475 Recommendations
Thank you for your email. Causes of rapid breathing can include pain, heat, anxiety, lung or heart problems, or anemia. Since I can't examine Merlin, it would be a good idea to have him seen by your veterinarian to try and determine why he is breathing this way and if it is something that needs to be treated. I hope that he recovers normally. 1 month, 2 weeks ago
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Cracker
Stray
12 Years
0 found helpful
Serious condition
H AS SYMPTOMS
Breathing Difficulty
We have a 12 year old cat that is breathing hard and rapidly. about 6 weeks ago he got stepped on and the breathing rapid started about 2 days later. We took him to the vet. They did xrays and blood work. Said his back was bruised and gave him antibotics, steroid shot, and pain meds. He was fine for about 3 weeks then started breathing hard again. This time we took him back they said he had a cats nail stuck in his neck. Gave him a steroid shot and he was fine for 2 weeks. Took him back 3rd time and they gave him a steroid shot.This time it didnt help. Took him to a different vet. They looked at his blood work and took xrays. Said he either had cancer or fungus on his lungs. They were swolen. He is on his second week of antibotics and anti-fugal meds. Really breathing hard but not panting. Not sure if he's suffering or how to tell. 1 month, 2 weeks ago
Cracker's Owner
Dr. Michele King, DVM
475 Recommendations
Thank you for your email, I'm sorry that Cracker is having these problems. Without examining him, it is hard for me to advise you on whether he is suffering, and that is probably a question to ask the most recent veterinarian that you took him to. If he has a fungal or bacterial infection, he should be improving on those medications. If he has cancer, he may not improve, and it is important to assess his quality of life. If he starts breathing with his mouth open or stretching his neck to breathe, that is serious respiratory distress and is an emergency. IF he is eating and drinking and generally happy, he may be breathing heavier but not suffering. It would be best to have a recheck with the most recent veterinarian, as it has been a week on medications, and see if they feel he is improving - they may want to take x-rays and compare them with the previous x-rays to look for signs of improvement. They will be able to give you a better idea as to whether he may be suffering, or if he seems comfortable. I hope that all goes well with him. 1 month, 2 weeks ago
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Kokwa
Birman
7 Months
0 found helpful
Serious condition
H AS SYMPTOMS
Open Mouth Breathing
My 7month old cat is brething so fast.. early today, we had a family/relative get together in our house. The children are playing with kokwa, kokwa is afraid and keeps on running away from the children, he hides so no one can caught him. Tonight, i notice his rapid open mouth breathing.. how's my cat? This is so unusual. Can you help me find what is happening to Kokwa? 2 months, 1 week ago
Kokwa's Owner
Dr. Callum Turner, DVM
1968 Recommendations
Kokwa may be breathing fast due to stress, pain, respiratory infection, heart conditions, anaemia (check gums), poisoning among other causes; without examining Kokwa and listening to the heart and lungs I cannot say specifically what may be wrong. You should keep a close eye on Kokwa and if the breathing doesn’t improve you should visit your Veterinarian in the morning or if you see he is in respiratory distress or his gums are white visit an Emergency Veterinarian immediately. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM 2 months, 1 week ago
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Lucy
American
10 Years
0 found helpful
Fair condition
Shorthair
I just noticed my 10yr old female cat has been breathing very fast and shallow. It started about 24 hrs ago. Should I keep an eye on her over the weekend, or is this something I should rush her to the doctor for? 2 months, 1 week ago
Lucy's Owner
Dr. Callum Turner, DVM
1968 Recommendations
Any changes in breathing should be concerning, you should keep a close eye on Lucy to see if it passes; if it seems like she is having difficulty getting enough oxygen or her gums are pale you should visit a Veterinarian immediately. Infections, laryngeal disorders, airway obstructions, tumours, poisoning, anaemia among other causes may cause respiratory difficulties. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM 2 months, 1 week ago
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Unamed
Grey Tabby?
Approximately 4 Weeks
0 found helpful
Moderate condition
H AS SYMPTOMS
Was Unwilling To Eat For A Bit
Was Unwilling To Move For A Bit
Had A Very Slight Fever 103.2
Watery Eyes
I have a four week old kitten who was dewormed today and i took in for a check up because he wasnt moving much and wasnt eating. When we got home he ate from his bottle and walked around a little. Right now hes fast asleep but his chest is rising and falling way faster than his littermates. Is he okay, what should i do? 2 months, 1 week ago
Unamed's Owner
Dr. Callum Turner, DVM
1968 Recommendations
You should keep an eye on the kitten for now and ensure that he remains hydrated; rapid breathing may be attributable to numerous causes but shouldn’t be an issue unless he is in distress. See how he is over the next day or two, but if you don’t see any improvement you should visit your Veterinarian for another examination. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM 2 months, 1 week ago
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Zoey
Long Hair Tabby
16-17
0 found helpful
Moderate condition
H AS SYMPTOMS
Coughing
My 16 year old cat is breathing very rapidly. She also has lost a lot of weight in last few months but she is eating excessively. Seems ok otherwise. Is an illness causing this ? Is her age a big factor ? 2 months, 2 weeks ago
Zoey's Owner
Dr. Callum Turner, DVM
1968 Recommendations
Age can have an effect on any animal and may cause a minor issue for a younger animal to be more severe in an older one; rapid breathing may be caused by a few different causes which may include pain, obstruction, heart failure among other issues. Given Zoey’s age, you should certainly visit your Veterinarian for an examination and a blood test to check her numbers. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM 2 months, 2 weeks ago
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Shadow
Unknown
4 Months
0 found helpful
Fair condition
H AS SYMPTOMS
Heavy Breathing
Why does my 4 month old kitten breathe heavily while sleeping on his back? It's only when he sleeps that way and as though he just ran a long distance. He's fine at all other times but I'm worried he may be struggling to breathe. 2 months, 3 weeks ago
Shadow's Owner
Dr. Callum Turner, DVM
1968 Recommendations
If Shadow is having trouble breathing whilst laying on his back, it may be attributable to a few different issues, but head position and the soft palate can cause a restriction in the airway which may cause some breathing difficulty; at your next visit to your Veterinarian ask them to check his throat and soft palate for any issues. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM 2 months, 3 weeks ago
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Umi
Mixed
6 Years
1 found helpful
Moderate condition
H AS SYMPTOMS
Swollen Popliteal Lymph Nodes
Low White Blood Cell Count
Lethargy
Diarrhea
Tachypnea MED IC ATION U SED
Clavaseptin 62.5 Mg
My cat (6 years old, castrated , female) for a week is showing signs of periodic but long lasting tachypnea. During the last week her breathing rate has reached 60/min ( normal 18-20/min) . Whenever she is tachypneic she is also very lethargic . Her popliteal lymph nodes are swollen and her white blood cel count ( 4,63 ) and neutrophil count (2.48) is slightly low. Abdominal ultrasound , cardiac and thoracic x rays did not show any abdonormalities ( mesenteric lymph nodes heart and lungs were normal ). Biochemical blood work results where normal . She is FeLV and FIV negative. She is also suffering from diarrhea and frequent urination ( 6 times daily) She has been taking antibiotics Clavaseptin 62,5mg for a week without visible results . What could be the cause of these symptoms ? Thank you very much I look forward to your answer. 2 months, 3 weeks ago
Umi's Owner
Dr. Callum Turner, DVM
1968 Recommendations
The next step would be to have a fine needle aspirate done on the popliteal lymph nodes to determine the types of cells present; lymph nodes can aggregate white blood cells in response to many conditions so an examination of the aspirate would be useful. With other parameters coming back normal, it is difficult to say what the specific cause is; but speak with your Veterinarian about performing a fine needle aspirate to help narrow in on a diagnosis. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM 2 months, 3 weeks ago
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Darcy
Tortoishell
2 Days
2 found helpful
Moderate condition
H AS SYMPTOMS
Rapid Breathing MED IC ATION U SED
None
Okay so we’ve had our cat since being a kitten and she’s always been very scatty as we think she was abused, due to getting her and her having marks on her neck, but her breathing has always been rapid. (80 resps per minute) but in herself, she’s like any normal cat. She’s very friendly, not in any form of pain, is this something that needs to be addressed? 4 months, 3 weeks ago
Darcy's Owner
Dr. Callum Turner, DVM
1968 Recommendations
There are a few possible causes of rapid breathing or increased respiration rate in cats which may be due to allergies, infection, foreign objects, sign of pain, other pulmonary problems among other issues. It is important that any serious causes or ruled out or treated, it would be best to have your Veterinarian give Darcy a check up to be on the safe side on your next visit as 80 breaths per minute is around double the physiological range. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM www.vet.cornell.edu/fhc/Health_Information/dyspnea.cfm 4 months, 3 weeks ago
Dear Dr Turner, I just wanted to say thank you for your input, it’s greatly appreciated. I’ve only just managed to read this now! I found this very helpful but unfortunately it isn’t registering above the comment box. Either way I’ll get her in to see the Vet as soon as possible. Kind regards Dan Woodier 3 weeks, 6 days ago
Dan
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Manx
Cross Breed
2 Months
0 found helpful
Moderate condition
Its been 3 days until he was breath fast, he is listless but then he can still groom himself and eat but only fish, he can still drink on his own a lot, scratch his scabies 2 months, 3 weeks ago
Manx's Owner
Dr. Callum Turner, DVM
1968 Recommendations
There are many possible causes for the symptoms you are describing which include infections, parasites, congenital anomalies among other causes; but if you are suspecting that Manx has scabies you should visit your Veterinarian for an examination and skin scraping so you Veterinarian can assess him and give treatment. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM 2 months, 3 weeks ago
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Teddy
Siamese
3 Or 4 Years
0 found helpful
Moderate condition
H AS SYMPTOMS
No Bowl Movement For Three Days Eating And Drinking Little
Not Very Active
Not Urinating Daily
Short And Fast Breathing
I took my cat into the vet Monday and Tuesday. he was giving a shot to bring down his fever both times also antibiotics that he is still receiving morning and night.he was acting up not eating not drinking water and a fever. Wednesday and thursday he was just fine being normal but he still hasn't ate a lot. Thursday night his breathing started to become fast and short what could this be. Vet did not believe this was distemoer. 2 months, 3 weeks ago
Teddy's Owner
Dr. Callum Turner, DVM
1968 Recommendations
There are many different causes for the symptoms which you are describing which most likely are attributable to an infection; continue with the antibiotics and feed some plain canned pumpkin to help move the bowels a little, if Teddy isn’t drinking you should try syringing water to the mouth little by little as it is important he remains hydrated. See how he goes, but if there is no improvement you should return to your Veterinarian for another examination. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM 2 months, 3 weeks ago
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Leo
Orange Tabby
15 Weeks
0 found helpful
Mild condition
H AS SYMPTOMS
Rapid Breathing
Cat has been breathing relatively quickly-- brought him home to family for holidays. Was wondering if this is due to stress or if he has something else. Also sleeping more than usual 2 months, 3 weeks ago
Leo's Owner
Dr. Callum Turner, DVM
1968 Recommendations
Stress may be a contributing factor for why Leo is breathing rapidly and sleeping, also a new environment may have other allergens or contaminants like cigarette smoke or different cleaning products which may cause some respiratory irritation. You should keep an eye on Leo for the meantime and if the problem continues you should visit your Veterinarian when you get back. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM 2 months, 3 weeks ago
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Jinx
Dsh
1year
0 found helpful
Moderate condition
H AS SYMPTOMS
Fever, Fast Breathing
Fever
MED IC ATION U SED
Cerenia? Fever Reducer
My cat was seen by my vet 2 days ago for lethargy, loss of appetite and rapid breathing. The vet diagnosed a viral or bacterial infection and slight dehydration. She had a temp of 103.4. She was given I.V. fluid, a long acting antibiotic shot and a fever reducer. She's not much better. Should I give the medication more time to work or does she need to be seen again. 2 months, 3 weeks ago
Jinx's Owner
Dr. Callum Turner, DVM
1968 Recommendations
Two days is still early days for treatment but you should start seeing some improvement in the next day or so, I would say to give it the weekend and if there is no improvement in Jinx’s condition you should return to your Veterinarian on Monday for another examination. Improvement in an animal's condition, especially with antibiotics, can be delayed in most cases so unless your Veterinarian said specifically ‘you’ll see improvement over the next 24 hours’ or something similar you should give it three or four days at least. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM 2 months, 3 weeks ago
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Alaska
Short Hair
6 Months
0 found helpful
Serious condition
H AS SYMPTOMS
Breaths Faster At Rest
Recently my cat has been breathing a lot. I counted how much she breaths in a minute and it led up to 62 times. My cat is a indoor cat and has never gone outside and she is around 6 months old. We started feeding her a new type of brand of food 2 weeks ago and I don’t know if that was the cause. Is my cat sick? 2 months, 4 weeks ago
Alaska's Owner
Dr. Callum Turner, DVM
1968 Recommendations
Resting respiratory rate in a cat is around 15-40 breaths per minute, if Alaska is breathing more than that then it may be indicative of some underlying medical issue; without examining Alaska it is difficult for me to say specifically the cause or any treatment. An increase in respiratory effort may be attributable to pain, fluid in the lungs, narrowed airways among other issues; if you have recently changed food you should try changing back again but I would recommend having your Veterinarian check Alaska over to be on the safe side. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM 2 months, 4 weeks ago
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Possum
Scottish Fold
7 Years
0 found helpful
Moderate condition
I have a 7 yr old Scottish Fold. I took her to the vet on Friday because I noticed her breathing rapidly. The vet said there were no signs of a respiratory infection (lungs sounded clear, eyes & ears appeared fine) but gave her a shot of antibiotics and some pain med. (in case she was panting due to being in pain)and sent us home. Its now 2 days later and shes still having a hard time breathing. Could she possibly jst have a stuffy nose from allergies and thats causing her to struggle. I mentioned it to the vet, but he said no because her nose doesnt have any discharge. 3 months, 1 week ago
Possum's Owner
Dr. Callum Turner, DVM
1968 Recommendations
There are various causes for rapid breathing with pain being a common cause; infections, foreign bodies, heart conditions, allergies among other conditions may also cause rapid breathing. It may be worth trying to get Possum into the bathroom whilst you take a shower to see if the warm humid air helps to open her airway; otherwise we are a little bit stuck for a cause. If the cause was due to a blocked nose, your Veterinarian would have detected that on the physical examination. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM 3 months, 1 week ago
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Cupcake
Calico
6 Years
1 found helpful
Moderate condition
H AS SYMPTOMS
Not Drinking
Rapid Breathing
Noisy Breathing
Loss Of Appetite
My daughters cat is mainly an inside cat but goes outside on occasion, 3 days ago she went outside to have a sniff when she spotted another cat and went bolting after it , in panic my daughter and I went running after her when we retrieved her she started vomiting up what I guessed was stomach acid due to the fact her body was not prepared or designed for that fast bolt. My daughter let her distress and calm down. Later in the evening we noticed she was still breathing very rapidly like she was when we retrieved her we thought maybe she was still highly stressed and that it may go away by morning. Morning came and I had work my daughter was looking after her cat and her condition had not changed my daughter tried feeding the cat her favourite treat ham which she usually can’t get enough of and now she ate one little bit and left the rest which is very out of character , my daughter told me this when I got home so I tired to feed the cat some dinner and she wouldn’t touch it this is when my daughter and started to feel really worried. We wanted to take her to the vet the next day but unfortunately all of them were closed due to it being a Sunday and we noticed she hadn’t used her litter and hadn’t been drinking unless my daughter fed water to her though a syringe. It is the middle of the night now when I’m writing this and she is still rapidly breathing and still hasn’t eaten for 2days please any help would be appreciated this cat is everything to my daughter thank you I hope to hear from you soon 3 months, 2 weeks ago
Cupcake's Owner
Dr. Callum Turner, DVM
1968 Recommendations
I cannot think of a connection between the running after another cat and the symptoms that she is presenting with except possibly hypoglycemia (normally causes an increase in appetite) due to the blood glucose level being too low. I would suggest to rub a little corn syrup or honey on the gums to see if there is any improvement in Cupcake’s symptoms; ensure you keep Cupcake hydrated and visit your Veterinarian on Monday morning, if the symptoms increase in severity visit an Emergency Veterinarian. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM 3 months, 2 weeks ago
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Lucky
Siamese
13 Years
0 found helpful
Moderate condition
H AS SYMPTOMS
Loss Of Appetite
My cat lucky is 13 Siamese cat, he has always had a healthy appetite and was a big boy. Recently he isn't eating as much, he vomits a lot, he lost weight, a lot of weight, gags, and sometimes at night his breathing sounds off, it's not tapir, or to slow just sounds muffled a little heavy?? I am worried 3 months, 3 weeks ago
Lucky's Owner
Dr. Callum Turner, DVM
1968 Recommendations
There are a few possible causes for the symptoms which you have described which may include infections, parasites, liver disease, cancer, kidney failure among other issues; given Lucky’s age, I would recommend an examination by your Veterinarian along with a blood test to check his internal health. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM 3 months, 3 weeks ago
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Kingston
Domestic Short
3 Years
Hair
0 found helpful
Fair condition
H AS SYMPTOMS
Shortness Of Breath, Shallow Breath
My cat has started so breath really shallow more rapid breaths rather than his normal breathing rate and depth. The only thing I can think of that has occurred in the last couple of hours is that my fiancé fed him along with our other two male cats some beef tendon which she has done before. The other two cats are just fine. Kingston however seems to be having a hard time taking a full breath and breathing at a normal rate. I checked his mouth and did not see anything. He isn’t active like normal and will only sit in one spot and not move. I picked him up and held him in front of his back legs and behind his front legs and he let out a slight meow as to not like that. I am not sure what to do for him. We have some allergy medicine but I do not know if that would help in any way. I couldn’t even get him to take a treat which he never turns down. Please help. 4 months, 1 week ago
Kingston's Owner
Dr. Callum Turner, DVM
1968 Recommendations
Allergy medicine wouldn’t help here, it may be a case that the beef tendon is causing pain or an obstruction for Kingston which may explain his posture of sitting and his increased respiratory rate. I would keep an eye on him, but if there is no improvement within a few hours I would recommend taking him into your Veterinarian for an examination; I wouldn’t induce vomiting since if there is an obstruction this may cause more pain and distress for him. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM 4 months, 1 week ago
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Roxanne
Siamese
6 Months
0 found helpful
Fair condition
H AS SYMPTOMS
Rapid Breathing
Weird Sounds
MED IC ATION U SED
None.
Hi! This is my first time using this website. I adopted a kitten from the humane society two months ago. She is currently 6 months old. She is an extremely sweet and loving kitten and have had no problems with her except for some gum swelling around 5 mo. I took her to a vet and was told she was fine, the gum swelling went down and she lost some baby teeth. I assumed the gum swelling was from that. I am now noticing in her rapid breathing when she is resting, and more recently, at random times she makes a monotone short snore sound. It’s almost as if she is having issues breathing. I have noticed zero behavioral changes. She seems to be doing fine, however I know cats can hide their issues well. I will add she is a Siamese kitten and talks like one! 4 months, 2 weeks ago
Roxanne's Owner
Dr. Callum Turner, DVM
1968 Recommendations
You shouldn’t notice breathing rates over 40 breaths per minute in a resting cat; an increase in respiration may be due to inadequate airflow, malpositioning of the throat, respiratory infection, heart issues among other causes. Without examining Roxanne I cannot say for sure what is happening, keep a close eye on her and if you decide to have her fixed speak with your Veterinarian then. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM 4 months, 2 weeks ago
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Smudge
Short Haired
15 Years
Domestic
0 found helpful
Mild condition
Rapid breathing legarthy listless. She's normally an outdoor cat but doesn't really want to go out. Having accidents indoors, sleeping more than normal. Not eaten much but drinking milk, sits on cabinet with her back to us 4 months, 3 weeks ago
Smudge's Owner
Dr. Callum Turner, DVM
1968 Recommendations
A cat shouldn’t be breathing more than around 40 breaths per minute when at rest, if her breathing is above this rate then it may be indicative of something going on. An increase in breathing may be due to infections, heart disease, cancer, pleural effusion, allergies among other causes; given Smudge’s age, I would have your Veterinarian take a look at her to be on the safe side. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM 4 months, 3 weeks ago
I have a female kitten, her age was 1month 5days ,today she ate little bit fish, after that she vomit a little bit then breathing problem started, plzz help me 1 month, 2 weeks ago
Sudeshna B.
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