Why Is My Cat Panting?

When you notice your cat panting, it might catch your attention and or spark concern. We’re going to look at the reasons behind cat panting here in our blog and discuss when it might be time to seek help from a veterinary professional. If you’re seeing your cat breathe with its mouth open more than usual, or if you’re just curious about this behavior, you’re in the right place. For further insights, Pets Furst Urgent Care in Langhorne, PA, is here to assist. You can reach us at (215) 755-1000. Our team is eager to support you and your pet with urgent and emergency care, wellness services, vaccinations, microchipping, and diagnostics. We’re open 7 days a week and are excited to serve you!

Causes of Panting in Cats

Cats usually breathe quietly through their noses, so when a cat pants, it can be rather surprising. Unlike dogs, cats don’t typically pant to cool themselves down. If you see your cat panting, it could be a sign of stress, overheating, or a health issue requiring attention. Let’s explore these causes in more detail.

Stress or Anxiety

Cats can pant when they’re stressed or anxious. This could happen during a car ride, after a stressful encounter, or in an unfamiliar environment. It’s a way for them to cope with discomfort or fear and is usually just a temporary state.

Overheating

Cats can overheat, especially in very hot weather or if they’ve been exercising particularly vigorously. Panting helps them regulate their body temperature, but it’s not as efficient as in dogs. Always ensure your cat has a cool, shady place to rest and plenty of fresh water.

Health Concerns

Sometimes, panting in cats can be a symptom of a health issue such as heart disease, respiratory illness, or another underlying condition. If your cat’s panting is accompanied by lethargy, coughing, loss of appetite, or just seems out of the ordinary in general, it’s important to get them checked by a vet.

When to Take Your Cat to the Vet

It’s not always easy to tell when cat panting is a sign of something serious. However, there are a few indications that it’s time to call Pets Furst Urgent Care:

• Panting without an obvious reason (like heat or exercise)
• Panting that continues for a long time or seems to get worse
• Other symptoms like blue gums, trouble breathing, or lethargy

If you’re ever in doubt, it’s better to be safe and get in touch with us. Our team is ready to provide the care your cat needs, with services available every day of the week.

Preventing Heatstroke and Stress

While we’re here to help when your cat needs us, there are things you can also do on your own to reduce the risk of heatstroke and stress-related panting:

• Keep your home cool and well-ventilated.
• Ensure access to fresh, cool water at all times.
• Avoid vigorous play in hot weather.
• Familiarize your cat with car travel and new environments gradually to reduce stress.

Pets Furst Urgent Care Services

If you ever notice your cat panting and you’re not sure why, give us a call at (215) 755-1000. Whether it’s an urgent concern or you just need advice, our team at Pets Furst Urgent Care in Langhorne, PA, is here to help 7 days a week. We’re not just about handling urgent situations and emergencies; we offer a full range of services to keep your cat healthy, including wellness exams, vaccinations, microchipping, and diagnostics. Our goal is to provide the care your cat needs to live a happy, healthy life. We’re excited to meet you and your pet and look forward to becoming a part of your pet’s health journey!