I recently cam across a “funny” video of a cat panting on Instagram saying that she was raised by dogs. While that could be the case, it raised some alarm bells in my mind.
You see, as a cat owner, I know that panting isn’t a good sign for cats.
So, if you’re looking for an answer to, “why is my cat panting?” you’ll get it in this blog post.
Cat Panting: What Does it Mean?
Panting is common in dogs, they do it to keep themselves cool when it starts to get hot outside. So, if your dog has been panting in the summers, there’s nothing you should worry about.
It’s natural dog behaviour.
However, if you have a panting cat, you need to keep an eye on her.
Why Is My Cat Panting?
There are many reasons why your cat may be panting. Let’s go over a few of those:
- Overheating
- Stress
- Anxiety
- After Strenuous Exercise
This type of panting is rare or relatively uncommon in cats. In most cases, cats panting means something else.
What Does It Mean When a Cat is Panting?
In this section of the article, I will go over a few reasons why your cat may be panting. Here are some red flags you need to look out for.
- Asthma: This is a breathing problem that also occurs in human beings. Cats with asthma cough, wheeze, and pant more often that cats without it. This disease is treatable, but you need to talk to your vet as soon as possible.
- Congestive Heart Failure: If a cat is in congestive heart failure, she starts to pant, cough, and breathe rapidly as the fluid starts accumulating in its blood. The vet will drain the fluid and prescribe medication.
- Heartworm: Heartworm in cats is associated with breathing difficulties. If you suspect that your cat has Heartworm, you need to take her to the vet immediately. Using a Heartworm preventative such as the Provecta Advance for Cats.
- Respiratory Infection: Heavy panting can be a result of respiratory infections in cats. In this case, humidifiers are your kitty’s best friend to help relieve pressure and make breathing easier.
My Cat is Panting: When You Should Be Concerned..
If your cat pants rarely, then you don’t need to be worried about panting. However, here’s when you should visit the vet:
- When your cat is drooling.
- When your cat is weak and lethargic.
- If your cat has been vomiting or has diarrhoea.
- If it is bleeding from the nose.
- If your cat has a bright red tongue.
Call the vet if you see any of these signs!
Conclusion: Panting Cat
Was this blog post helpful? If so, share it with other kitty lovers to spread the news!
Panting in cats isn’t normal like it is in dogs. Cats rarely pant, so if your kitty pants once in a while, the chances are that everything is okay. However, if she has panting like never before, you need to start worrying.
Do you have any comments? Share them with us, we’d appreciate your knowledge.