- Not a substitute for professional veterinary help.
We’re used to hearing dogs pant to cool themselves on a hot day. But do cats do the same? Unlike dogs, panting is never normal in cats. You’ll never see a cat panting for no reason.
“Most panting in cats comes from an underlying heart condition,” says Dr. Joanna Woodnutt, MRCVS, Veterinarian and Founder at Petlearnia. Because panting is often a health emergency, pet parents should see a vet right away.
Learning the reasons behind panting in cats can help you recognize emergency situations and quickly get your cat help. Here are eight of the most common reasons for panting in cats you should know.
1. They’re a Flat-Faced Breed
Persians, Himalayans, Scottish Folds, and Bombays are all “flat-faced” or brachycephalic cats. The shape of their skulls, facial structure, and shortened airways make these breeds more prone to respiratory problems, says Dr. Robert Gonzalez, DVM, New York Regional medical director for Small Door Veterinary.
Much like brachycephalic dogs, like Pugs and Boston Terriers, these cats have difficulty breathing and respiratory distress that can manifest as panting.
2. They Have Asthma
Asthma affects millions of people. Dr. Woodnutt says asthma in cats is also relatively common. Cats can develop asthma at a young age, and when it flares up, it can cause small “attacks.” Symptoms of asthma in cats include:
- Coughing
- Wheezing
- Rapid, open-mouthed breathing (similar to panting)
- Vomiting
- Blue lips and gums
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3. They Have a Parasite
Dr. Woodbutt says outdoor, free-roaming cats are at a higher risk of injury and illness, including parasitic infections. Heartworms and lungworms attack an infected cat’s lung tissue and heart muscles and cause breathing problems in like rapid breathing or panting.
Some red flags that a parasite and not cat asthma is to blame include:
- Vomiting up food or blood
- A lack of appetite
- Hiding
- Exhaustion
4. They’re Anemic
Anemia is a blood disorder often triggered by iron deficiency. With this condition, there aren’t enough red blood cells, which carry less oxygen throughout the body.
Dr. Gonzalez and Dr. Woodnutt say anemic cats might pant or show other signs of respiratory distress, like open-mouth breathing to increase their oxygen intake. Other signs that panting indicates your kitty is suffering from anemia include extreme lethargy and discolored gums.
5. They Missing Nutrients
Nutritional deficiencies that cause heart problems, such as a lack of taurine, could cause cat panting. Dr. Woodnutt says a lack of this essential amino acid can cause dilated cardiomyopathy, a heart muscle disease that weakens a cat’s heart’s chambers and makes it harder for the heart to pump blood. As a result, this heart problem can cause panting and difficulty breathing.
Luckily, taurine deficiencies are rare. Cats who eat a balanced commercial diet get all their essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients from their food. Meanwhile, cats who eat homemade diets or non-species-appropriate food are most at risk for developing heart damage.
Other symptoms of a taurine deficiency include:
- Weight loss
- Poor or worsening vision
- Lethargy
6. They Ate Something Toxic
Dr. Woodnutt says some toxins could cause panting due to their effects on the heart muscle. Additionally, Dr. Gonzalez says if cats ingest toxic plants or food, like lilies, onions, or garlic, they might display the following symptoms:
- Irregular heartbeat
- Difficult breathing
- Panting
- Drooling
- Vomiting
7. They Have a Lung Problem or Illness
Dr. Woodnutt says various lung problems or illnesses can cause difficulty breathing and panting. Some of these conditions include:
- A collapsed lung
- Chest injuries
- Fluid in the lungs
- Excess fluid around the chest and lungs
Generally, these are serious conditions cats develop later in life or after accidents. Beyond panting, a cat with lung problems might cough, gasp, and have a fever.
7. They Have a Heart Disease
Heart-based illnesses and diseases can cause fluid to build up in the lungs, leading to panting and respiratory issues.
Dr. Gonzalez says other symptoms that indicate a heart problem or disease include lethargy, coughing, and exercise intolerance.
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How Do Vets Diagnose Panting?
If you notice your cat panting, especially if they have never done it before, go to the vet immediately. Taking a wait-and-see approach can cause irreversible damage; if your cat struggles to breathe because of a problem with their heart or lungs in particular, it could be deadly.
First, your vet will do a full exam. When your vet listens to your cat’s heart, they’ll be able to hear any audible signs of problems with their heart, like murmurs or an irregular heartbeat.
If they don’t pick up any unusual sounds but still suspect it’s heart-related, they’ll order further tests like blood tests, x-rays, and ultrasounds. Dr. Woodnutt says these tests help diagnose heart issues and determine if there are other issues in your cat’s body.
How Can You Treat Panting in Cats?
Many heart conditions can’t be reversed in cats, but some medications can help their heart pump more effectively and reduce symptoms like panting and lethargy.
If your cat’s panting is instead due to an illness, problem, or disease in their lungs, treatment options include medication, short-term antibiotics, inhalers, or even surgery.
Lastly, if you’re worried about the financials of treating your cat’s panting, pet insurance is a great option to reduce the cost and help you keep peace of mind as your cat returns to their healthy, happy self.