Panting is normal for animals. They pant when they are thirsty, happy, or in your face when they seek attention! On the other hand, cats are rarely caught with their tongues out. It’s natural for a cat to take a few deep breaths after some activity. But if your cat is panting heavily for no reason, you might have to call Alexander Animal Hospital.
Cats Don’t Typically Pant
Cats rarely overexert themselves because they sleep an average of 15 hours daily. They also take advantage of the cooling effects with their own saliva. In fact, cats lick their fur to cool down. In addition, their saliva evaporates from their coats. Hence, providing a cooling effect.
Reasons Why Your Cat is Panting
When your cat is panting, it’s a sure sign that its body is working hard. Here are several causes of why your cat is panting and when you should call us:
Your Cat May Be Excited
Did you treat your cat to a catnip-filled toy or a new climbing tree? Your cat might be excited. Additionally, your cat is panting because it might be energetically chasing after a squirrel or another small animal.
It’s Getting Hot
When cats begin to overheat, they will search for a shady spot, stretch themselves out, groom their fur, or drink water. However, heatstroke can occur. Call us immediately if your cat is panting due to the following warning signs:
- Rapid respiration
- Crying
- Drooling
- Restlessness or lack of coordination
- Nausea
They Have High Anxiety
Moreover, your feline might pant during a wellness exam visit or a trip to another unfamiliar area. Also, if your cat is anxiety-prone, they may be pant when there are guests, loud noises in the house, or when you introduce a new animal. Make sure to move your cat to a quiet area with a favorite toy so they can recover.
Pain Can Cause Your Cat to Pant
Lastly, pain is another reason why your cat is panting. It’s crucial for the team at Alexander Animal Hospital to examine your cat if they display signs of mood changes, loss of appetite, or vocalizing, besides pain.
We Would Love the Opportunity to Care for Your Furry Friends!
Alexander Animal Hospital is a full-service animal hospital located in Severna Park, Maryland, serving the Severna Park, Pasadena, and Arnold Areas. Our goal is educating clients on the needs of their pets and understanding the importance of individualized veterinary care in order to strengthen the human-animal bond between owners and their pets.
We understand you have a choice when deciding on the care for your pets, and we strive to provide you with unparalleled services including wellness exams, vaccines, lost pet microchip ID, dental care, surgical services, digital radiography, and in-hospital laboratory services and diagnostics. Other highlights of Alexander Animal Hospital are the separate cat and dog waiting and exam rooms, as well as after-hours on-call emergency services.
Please take a look around our website and then give us a call at 410-777-8678 to set up an appointment.
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