Is it Normal That My Cat Keeps Panting?

If you’ve noticed your cat panting, you might be wondering whether it’s something to be concerned about. Cats don’t pant as often as dogs, so it can be surprising when you see your cat breathing with its mouth open. This blog will help explain the reasons behind cat panting, when it’s normal, and when it might be a sign of something more serious. If you ever have concerns about your cat’s breathing or health, feel free to reach out to Limerick Veterinary Hospital at (610) 489-2848 or book an appointment online for more information.

 

 

Why Cats Pant and When It’s Normal

Panting in cats can sometimes be normal, but it usually depends on the situation. Cats may pant for several reasons, including stress, excitement, or after a period of intense physical activity. For example, if your cat has been playing for a long time or is overheated, panting might occur. Just like dogs, cats might need to cool down after getting too warm, and panting can help regulate their body temperature.

Traveling can also make cats anxious, and you might notice panting during car rides. Stress-related panting often happens in unfamiliar or stressful environments, like vet visits or when there’s a change in your cat’s surroundings. If your cat stops panting once they’re calm and comfortable, it’s probably not something to worry about.

However, if the panting continues or happens frequently, it could be a sign that something isn’t quite right. Regular or excessive panting isn’t typical in cats, so it’s essential to pay attention to how often it occurs and whether it’s linked to stress or activity. If you’re unsure whether your cat’s panting is normal, we encourage you to give us a call at Limerick Veterinary Hospital.

Common Causes of Panting in Cats

There are a few common causes that might explain why your cat is panting. As we mentioned earlier, stress and heat can sometimes trigger it, but other factors can play a role too. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most common causes:

• Heat: If your cat has been in a hot environment, panting may be a way to cool down. Cats are generally good at regulating their body temperature, but on particularly hot days, they might need to pant to release excess heat.
• Exercise: After playing or running around, some cats might pant for a short period. This is more likely in younger or more active cats, and the panting should stop once they rest.
• Stress or Anxiety: Cats can be very sensitive to changes in their environment. Moving to a new home, having visitors over, or loud noises could cause your cat to pant. It’s not uncommon to see panting during car rides or vet visits.

While these causes are usually not serious, it’s always good to keep an eye on your cat and check if the panting resolves quickly. If your cat’s behavior seems off, or the panting persists, it’s worth looking into potential health issues that could be causing it.

Health Conditions That Cause Panting in Cats

Sometimes, panting can be a sign of an underlying health condition. Cats are experts at hiding illness, so if you notice panting without an obvious reason, it could be their way of showing discomfort or distress. Here are some health issues that can cause panting in cats:

• Respiratory Issues: If your cat is having trouble breathing, they may pant as a way to try and get more oxygen. Conditions like asthma, pneumonia, or fluid in the lungs can lead to this. If your cat is wheezing, coughing, or seems to be struggling with breathing, panting could be a red flag.
• Heart Disease: Cats with heart problems may pant due to poor circulation or difficulty pumping blood. Heart disease can sometimes cause fluid buildup in the lungs, which makes it hard for your cat to breathe. If your cat is panting along with showing signs of lethargy or coughing, a vet check-up is essential.
• Pain or Discomfort: Cats in pain might pant as a response. If your cat has been injured or is experiencing internal discomfort, they might pant due to stress or pain. Any sudden changes in your cat’s behavior, including panting, could indicate that they are in distress.
• Hyperthyroidism: This is a condition where your cat’s thyroid gland becomes overactive, leading to symptoms like weight loss, increased appetite, and, in some cases, panting. Hyperthyroidism can make your cat’s body work harder than usual, leading to labored breathing.
• Anemia: When a cat has anemia, they don’t have enough red blood cells to carry oxygen around the body. As a result, they might pant to try to get more oxygen. If your cat seems weak or lethargic and is panting, they may need to be checked for anemia.

If you’re concerned about your cat’s panting or think there may be an underlying health issue, reach out to Limerick Veterinary Hospital at (610) 489-2848 or book an appointment online. We can help determine if your cat needs medical attention.

When Should You Be Concerned About Panting?

If your cat is panting for an extended period or it seems unrelated to stress or activity, it’s a good idea to take action. Cats that pant for more than a few minutes, pant frequently, or show other signs of distress might be dealing with a more serious issue. Here are some additional signs to watch for that could indicate a problem:

• Rapid or labored breathing: If your cat’s breathing seems fast or strained, it could be a sign of respiratory issues.
• Coughing or wheezing: These could be indicators of asthma or another respiratory problem.
• Lethargy: If your cat seems unusually tired or weak in addition to panting, it might point to heart disease or another health issue.
• Loss of appetite: Cats that stop eating or show a reduced appetite along with panting may need veterinary care.

Since cats are usually very quiet breathers, any abnormal panting or breathing should be taken seriously. If your cat has suddenly started panting more often, it’s always better to check with us at Limerick Veterinary Hospital to rule out any health concerns.

What Should You Do if Your Cat is Panting?

If you notice your cat panting, start by looking at their environment and recent activity. If they’ve been running around or in a warm room, give them a chance to rest and cool off. You can also try to reduce any stress factors, like loud noises or unfamiliar guests, to help calm your cat down.

If your cat is still panting after a few minutes or seems uncomfortable, it’s time to give us a call. Panting can sometimes be a sign that your cat needs medical attention, especially if it continues for longer than a few minutes. Cats are good at hiding when they’re sick, so early detection is key in preventing more serious issues.

Our team at Limerick Veterinary Hospital is here to help with any concerns you may have about your cat’s breathing. If you’re worried about your cat’s health or if the panting doesn’t seem normal, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Call us at (610) 489-2848 for an appointment or more information.

Keep an Eye on Your Cat’s Panting

Overall, it’s important to keep an eye on how often your cat pants and what might be causing it. While some panting can be completely normal, like after playtime or during hot weather, persistent or unexplained panting should always be checked by a vet. We want to help ensure your cat is healthy and comfortable, so if you ever have questions, we’re just a phone call away.

If your cat is panting and you’re unsure whether it’s normal, we encourage you to call us at Limerick Veterinary Hospital at (610) 489-2848 or book an appointment online. Our team can assess your cat’s condition and provide the care they need to stay happy and healthy.