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If your cat/dog has difficulty breathing (dyspnea) and/or rapid breathing (tachypnea/tachypnea) has been diagnosed with a condition that puts you at risk. These conditions can lead to severe respiratory distress in some cases, so it is important to recognize any developing problems. In addition to administering all medications as recommended by your veterinarian, you can actively participate in your cat's/dog's care by monitoring their breathing daily, paying particular attention to their rate and effort of breathing. You can also try to minimize stress or anxiety around your cat/dog, as these factors can worsen breathing difficulties. Providing the right conditions will help your cat/dog breathe comfortably.
How do you measure your cat/dog's respiratory rate?
To measure your cat's/dog's respiratory rate, it is best to have him/her completely at rest. Watch the movement of the chest wall; the chest expands outward with each inhale and then contracts back down with each exhale. These outward and inward movements are breathing cycle creates.
1. Count the breath cycles for 15 seconds.
2. Multiply this number by 4 to find the respiratory rate per minute.
The normal resting respiratory rate for dogs and cats is less than 30 breaths per minute. Monitoring your cat's respiratory rate daily or weekly can be helpful in noticing changes.
What are other important symptoms to watch out for?
• Increased respiratory effort (feeling of difficulty breathing)
• Shallow and rapid breathing
• Mouth breathing (unusual)
• Noisy breathing (sound while breathing)
• Feeling uncomfortable in the lying position or difficulty breathing while lying down
• Night restlessness (disturbed sleep or constant changing of position)
• Decreased activity level or decreased endurance for normal exercise
• Weakness or fainting/collapse (syncope/collapse)
• Blue color in the gums (it is more accurate to observe the gums, not the tongue)
These signs could indicate serious respiratory problems. If you notice any of them, it is important to consult your veterinarian immediately.
When should you call your veterinarian or get help?
Consult your veterinarian immediately or seek emergency help if:
• Respiratory rate consistently above 30 per minute at rest
• Difficult, uncomfortable or labored breathing
• Inability to lie down comfortably (not being able to find a suitable position)
• Fainting or collapse seizure
• Noticing a blue, gray or purple color (cyanosis) in the gums
• Any other symptoms that worry you
Such situations may be a sign of a serious health problem that may require immediate attention.
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