Reviewed by Dr. Terry White, DVM
When your cat's breathing becomes rapid, it can be incredibly frightening because it’s often a symptom that’s hard to interpret. You might be wondering if your cat is in pain or if something serious is happening. The uncertainty can be overwhelming, especially when you're unsure whether you should rush to the vet or if there's a simple explanation for the behavior.
Knowing the potential reasons behind your cat’s fast breathing and when to seek professional help can alleviate some of that anxiety. In this blog, we will guide you through the common causes of rapid breathing in cats, what signs to watch for, and when it’s time to see a vet.
What Does It Mean When Your Cat Is Breathing Fast?
First, let's clarify what "breathing fast" actually means. The normal respiratory rate for a relaxed cat is between 20 to 30 breaths per minute. If your cat is breathing faster than this, it could be a cause for concern, particularly if it's happening while they're at rest.
Common Causes of Rapid Breathing in Cats
1. Stress and Anxiety
One of the most common non-medical reasons for rapid breathing in cats is stress or anxiety. Just like humans, cats can experience stress, which can manifest in various ways, including faster breathing. Changes in their environment, such as new furniture, a new pet, or even visitors, can cause your cat to feel stressed and breathe more quickly.
2. Heat and Overexertion
Cats pant to cool down, much like dogs, though it's less common. If your cat has been playing vigorously or is in a hot environment, you might notice them breathing fast. This is usually short-lived and should resolve once your cat calms down and cools off. However, if your cat continues to breathe rapidly even after resting, it could be a sign of something more serious.
3. Respiratory Infections
Respiratory infections, such as feline viral rhinotracheitis or feline calicivirus, can lead to symptoms like rapid breathing. These infections often come with other signs, such as coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, and lethargy. If your cat is showing any of these symptoms along with fast breathing, a vet visit is necessary.
4. Asthma
Feline asthma is another condition that can cause your cat to breathe fast. This chronic condition involves inflammation of the airways, making it difficult for your cat to breathe. Cats with asthma may also exhibit coughing or wheezing. If your cat is diagnosed with asthma, your vet will likely prescribe medications to manage the condition.
5. Heart Disease
Heart disease is a serious cause of rapid breathing in cats. Conditions like hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, where the heart muscle thickens and becomes less efficient, can lead to fluid buildup in the lungs (pulmonary edema), making it difficult for your cat to breathe. If your cat’s fast breathing is accompanied by other symptoms such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or fainting, seek veterinary care immediately.
6. Pain or Trauma
If your cat has recently experienced trauma, such as a fall, or is in pain due to an underlying condition, they may breathe rapidly. Pain can cause a cat’s heart rate and respiratory rate to increase as a response to stress.
7. Pleural Effusion
Pleural effusion refers to the accumulation of fluid in the space surrounding the lungs. This can compress the lungs and lead to difficulty breathing. Pleural effusion can be caused by several conditions, including heart disease, cancer, or infections. Cats with pleural effusion often exhibit labored, shallow, or fast breathing and require immediate veterinary attention.
When to Worry: Red Flags to Watch For
While some causes of fast breathing in cats can be benign, others are signs of serious health problems that require prompt medical intervention.
Here are some red flags that should prompt an immediate visit to the vet:
Labored Breathing
If your cat is not just breathing fast, but also appears to be struggling to breathe, with their sides moving in and out rapidly or their nostrils flaring, this is an emergency.
Coughing or Wheezing
If your cat is coughing, wheezing, or making any unusual respiratory noises along with fast breathing, it could indicate a respiratory issue like asthma.
Gums Turning Blue or Pale
This is a sign of inadequate oxygenation and requires immediate veterinary care.
Lethargy and Weakness
If your cat is unusually tired, weak, or has fainted, this could indicate a severe underlying condition, such as heart disease.
Sudden Change in Breathing Patterns
Any sudden change in your cat’s breathing pattern, especially if it’s accompanied by other symptoms, should be taken seriously. For example, Any new noises accompanying your cat’s breathing, such as wheezing, gurgling, or high-pitched sounds, are not typical and should be evaluated by a vet. These noises might indicate obstructions, fluid buildup, or inflammation in the airways.
Another unusual breathing pattern is mouth breathing. Cats typically breathe through their noses, so if you observe your cat starting to breathe through their mouth (unless they’ve been active or stressed temporarily), it’s a strong indicator of respiratory difficulty. Or if you noticed your cat’s breathing pattern becomes irregular—where they are breathing fast one moment, then slow, or even pausing between breaths—this inconsistency can be a sign of respiratory distress or a neurological issue.
What to Do if Your Cat Is Breathing Fast
1. Monitor Their Breathing
If you notice your cat breathing fast, start by monitoring them closely. Count the number of breaths per minute while they’re resting. If the rate exceeds 30 breaths per minute consistently, it’s time to consult your vet.
2. Check for Other Symptoms
Look for any other signs that could indicate a specific cause, such as coughing, wheezing, or lethargy. Also, check your cat’s environment for any potential stressors or sources of anxiety.
3. Create a Calm Environment
If you suspect stress or anxiety might be the cause, try to calm your cat by removing any stressors. Provide a quiet, comfortable space for them to relax, and ensure they have access to fresh water and a cool environment.
4. Visit the Vet
If your cat’s fast breathing doesn’t resolve quickly or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, don’t hesitate to take them to the vet. Early intervention can make a significant difference, especially in cases of heart disease, respiratory infections, or pleural effusion.
Are You Seeing Your Cat Breathing Fast?
We can help! EverPal's Medical Director, Dr. Terry White, brings 40 years of experience and is ready to meet your fur baby same-day for any concerns about your cat's health. Each visit is twice as long as your typical in-office visit, allowing our veterinarian to understand your cat's unique needs, explain multiple treatment options, and provide thorough guidance on the best treament plan.
Experience better vet care with maximum comfort for your fur baby. Schedule your online vet visit today.
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