Panting cats is often an indication of discomfort due to heat or other stressors like car rides or veterinarian visits.
Pain can be fatal for cats. If panting occurs along with other signs of discomfort like whining, loss of appetite, changes in behavior or limping it is crucial that emergency veterinary assistance be sought immediately.
1. They’re overheated
Like their canine counterparts, cats will pant when overheated, anxious or following strenuous physical exercise. It’s considered normal behavior and should dissipate once the cat has had time to calm down, cool off or rest – including panting during labor – which typically lasts four to 16 hours on average for each litter of kittens born – so it isn’t unusual for mother cats giving birth to become overheated during this process and begin panting heavily as their babies arrive.
Overheating can be a serious threat to cats, so it is wise to take measures to stop it before it happens. Provide your cat with a safe and comforting place they can retreat to when feeling anxious or overheated; remove them from situations which stress them out or overheat them and provide them with a place where they can relax – such as their favorite blanket or cool, dark corner of the home.
Panting due to excitement or exertion is more common among kittens and younger cats; however, older cats may also exhibit this behavior when playing. When your cat begins panting while playing, try encouraging him/her to stop and rest before continuing the game; if playing with other pets nearby, separate them to allow both parties time to calm down before continuing playing together again.
If your cat cannot relax and breathe normally, and their breathing and heart rate increase rapidly, they could develop heatstroke – an emergency medical situation requiring immediate veterinary treatment. Take them to a cooler environment with room-temperature water (ideal) as well as a fan to help them calm down and chill off.
Pain can be the source of many cat pant sessions. Panting is an instinctual response to discomfort, often followed by other signs such as shaking, excessive grooming, loss of appetite and inappropriate urination. If your cat exhibits any of these signs it is wise to contact your veterinarian immediately in order to assess whether hospitalization or at-home care would be more suitable solutions.
2. They’re stressed
If your cat suddenly begins panting at an unusual frequency or unusual intervals, this could be a telltale sign of something being off. Cats suffering from stress or anxiety often take deep, fast breaths through their mouth which looks similar to panting; additional indicators include excessive grooming, inappropriate urination, hiding behaviors or changes in appetite. It’s essential that any potential stressors be removed from their environment, along with discussing potential anti-anxiety strategies with their vet such as behavioral modification techniques such as behavioral modification therapy pheromone therapy and anxiety medications/calming aids/calming agents/calming agents/calming aids/antianxious medications/calming aids/sedatives/anxious medications/calming aids/antianxious aids/meds/calming aids/anxious aids/calming aids/anxiousness/anxiousness etc.
Most cats will only pant after playing or engaging in physical exertion that causes them to overheat, such as short bursts of heavy exertion that leave them overheated. It is normal for newborns and shortly afterwards to begin panting shortly after giving birth, though random, randomized panting at different times during the day could signal a medical emergency that requires immediate medical intervention.
Panting in your pet could be an indicator of breathing problems that require medical intervention, including heart disease, respiratory distress and lung infection. Because these conditions can be life-threatening for their wellbeing, bringing them immediately to a veterinarian should be prioritised as soon as possible. Any additional symptoms like wheezing or coughing should also prompt an immediate trip.
Check the sides of your cat’s belly to assess how quickly they’re drawing air into their lungs, and if their tongue turns blue or purple that indicates not receiving enough oxygen. In these instances it should be treated as an emergency situation and immediate attention given. Help them by taking them to a cool area, dampening a cloth or tissue with room temperature water and placing it over their ears, neck, paws and face. Alternatively, you could squirt room temperature water into their water dish, or put some in their snood or bandana (if applicable). Your cat should stop panting within 10 minutes of beginning cooling measures. If not, please reach out to Androscoggin Animal Hospital immediately as their veterinarians can examine your cat, provide medications as necessary and other care services so they feel better!
3. They’re bored
Cats, like dogs, can become frustrated when left alone for extended periods. If this occurs with your feline friend, they may start panting and becoming more agitated than normal; perhaps chewing furniture or scratching carpet; they may even begin urinating more frequently than normal – if this is happening to them it’s crucial that you find ways to calm them down immediately!
Cats that become bored often engage in repetitive behaviors that are both stressful and upsetting for both themselves and their owners. They may develop unhealthy eating habits or start overeating, which can put their health at risk if not monitored appropriately. Therefore, providing plenty of toys and opportunities for play will keep your cat engaged and satisfied.
Your cat could also be panting because they need to cool off after engaging in vigorous play, which is especially common among kittens but can happen to older cats as well. If this occurs, encourage your pet to take a break and provide fresh water so that they can recharge their energy and cool off properly.
Feliway, a man-made pheromone that mimics the scent of cats, can help soothe your feline friend on car rides or flights. Rescue Remedy is another floral tincture available that reduces feelings of stress and anxiety; spray it into their carrier prior to an adventure for maximum relaxation and peace.
4. They’re in the bathroom
On rare occasions, cats may pant to release heat from their body. Since cats cannot sweat like dogs can, panting is their way of discharging excess heat from their system. If this is happening with your cat it may help if you move it to a cooler environment, which should allow it to relax quickly and stop panting soon afterwards.
Cats often pant when in pain; this behavior is an early indicator of illness in animals and people alike. If your cat suddenly begins panting without explanation, take them immediately to a vet for evaluation.
Rarely, cats may also pant when giving birth or in labor. Similar to that seen with dogs, this form of panting occurs shortly before or immediately following heavy exertion and lasts only for short duration before quickly dissipating.
Panting during birthing is a common part of the birthing process as it helps the mother calm down and prepare to give birth. Panting may also occur due to uterine contractions or pain due to medical issues like urinary blockage.
As pet parents, it’s essential that we know what’s considered “normal” and what constitutes an emergency that requires immediate veterinary attention. By understanding why your cat pants and what this signals to veterinarians, we can keep him or her safe.