Why is my cat suddenly breathing really fast? Should I call the vet now or wait it out?

This evening, I noticed my cat is breathing much faster than normal. She seems a little uneasy but is still moving around and eating. I’m concerned because this isn’t like her usual relaxed breathing pattern. Should I reach out to a vet right away, or is it safe to monitor her for a little bit longer?

Answer

It sounds like your cat's rapid breathing is causing you concern, which is understandable. Faster than normal breathing can be a sign of stress or a respiratory issue, and it's important to monitor these changes closely.

  • Monitor her breathing rate for any changes.
  • Check for other symptoms such as coughing or lethargy.
  • Consider consulting a vet if her condition does not improve.

Your cat's change in breathing pattern could be due to a variety of factors such as stress, overheating, or a more serious underlying condition like respiratory distress. If she is still eating and moving around, it might be okay to monitor her for a while, but any worsening or persistent symptoms should prompt a veterinary consultation. Observing her additional behaviors and symptoms will provide more information as to whether you need to reach out to a veterinarian right away.

Book a consultation with a licensed vet at Dial A Vet for just $49 AUD if you're unsure or symptoms are getting worse.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • When should I be worried about my cat's breathing?

    If your cat is displaying other symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, or showing signs of distress, it's important to seek veterinary advice as soon as possible.

  • What could cause my cat to breathe faster than normal?

    Faster breathing can be the result of overheating, stress, physical activity, or an underlying medical issue affecting the respiratory or cardiovascular system.

  • How can I count my cat's breathing rate?

    Count the number of breaths your cat takes in 15 seconds and multiply by four to get the breaths per minute. A normal rate is usually between 20 to 30 breaths per minute for a resting cat.

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