Do Cats Pant When Stressed?

by Jayley
Do Cats Pant When Stressed

The heat exchange between humans and cats is different. While humans sweat through their many pores, cats do not. Their pads then absorb the moisture from their bodies, keeping them cool. Unlike dogs, cats can not sweat enough to expel heat from their bodies. This is why it is unusual to see them panting like a dog. If you wonder if cats pant when stressed, let’s know more in the following sections. 

Cats tend to pant when they are stressed. You should keep an eye out for this symptom to help them get out of a stressful situation.

This may be a sign that the cat is being stressed. If the cat is not used to being in carriers or traveling, which means they will often start panting when they are stressed.

To explain more, we will talk about the various reasons why cat pants and what you should do during a stressful situation.

How Do You Tell If Your Cat Is Stressed Out

Will Stress Really Cause Panting In Cats?

Cats that are anxious and worried about their surroundings tend to pant. This activity increases their respiratory effort and helps them maintain a steady heart rate. Aside from stress, other conditions can also cause a cat to pant. Some of these include asthma and heart failure.

Although cat panting is less common than dog panting, it is still a severe issue that can cause serious health issues. Some of the common causes of cat panting include being too hot or overweight, stress, and respiratory difficulty.

Indeed, your first reaction might be to try and keep your cat cool by cooling him down, but it is also important to remember that this behavior can also be a symptom of an underlying health issue.

Even if your cat is feeling well, it might mean they are sick, which is why having their condition checked by a veterinarian is a good idea to avoid further problems. Cats often pant for various reasons. There are many environmental factors triggering this behavior. Some of these include stress and heat.

When a cat is confined to a carrier on the way to the doctor, it can pant. This usually happens during a hot day. Cats tend to pant after they exercise, which is a common reason they do it. If they have been playing with their owner, then it could be a sign that they are excited about something.

Cats may pant as their lungs can no longer receive enough air. This is a final resort that they may use to let you know that they are not feeling better. Even if there is an explanation for why someone is panting, it might be due to a health condition that prevents them from breathing properly.


How Do You Tell If Your Cat Is Stressed Out?

A cat’s behavior is an indication of its stress level. A prolonged period of cat panting stress can trigger an accelerated respiratory rate. It can also indicate that the animal is anxious. Aside from stress, other factors can also cause a cat to pant. This could be due to various conditions such as asthma and heart failure.

Cats that are stressed and anxious may exhibit signs of anxiety and stress, such as their tendency to pant. So, this can lead to an increase in respiratory effort. Cats usually take around 20 to 30 breaths per minute, but when they cough and have open-mouthed breathing, it can be dangerous. If you notice these signs, immediately call the veterinarian.

There are various reasons why a cat might be stressed. One of these is panting. Aside from this, there are other signs of cat panting stress that your feline might be experiencing.

Your cat is shedding a lot.

Your cat may be shedding hair excessively due to its excessive grooming. This can include biting and licking the body.

The tail of your cat is in a low position.

Your cat’s tail is in a low position, which can cause it to move back and forth. This can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation.

Your cat is aggressive to other animals and people.

Your cat is usually hiding under the bed or behind the furniture of your home. She is also aggressive towards other animals and people in your home.

Read also: Tips on How to Calm an Aggressive Cat after Adoption

Your cat is growling in a high-pitched sound.

Your cat may be excessively vocalizing. This could include meowing, hissing, or high-pitched growling.

If your cat eats non-food items.

Your cat may also get pica your cat if she eats non-food items and then urinates on furniture. Also, this condition can be caused by other issues such as excessive scratching.

Read also: What To Do If Your Cat Scratches You? 7 Tips to Stop the Behavior

Your cat sleeps more and gains weight.

Your cat is acting strangely and is sleeping more than usual. Your cat may also be gaining weight or losing it. Also, your cat may become unresponsive to the things around her.

Although coughing and other symptoms of an airway infection are commonly seen, they can also be accompanied by other conditions such as fatigue and a loss of appetite. A cat that is overweight or pregnant may sometimes pant with its mouth open. This is because its belly makes it hard for its lungs to expand properly.

If your cat has a heart condition, its gums may be slightly bluish or whiter than usual. They may also be less active. A tumor in the lungs or its adjacent tissues can cause various symptoms, such as fatigue, weight loss, and pale gums.

Read also: How Much Sleep Do Kittens Need?


What Should You Do If Your Pet Cat Is Panting From Stress?

When a cat is stressed, it tends to pant. This is because its heart rate is elevated. Having heavy breathing may also be a sign that the animal is overheated. In order to prevent this, you should:

Take your cat to a cool place.

Take the animal inside a cool vehicle and keep it out of direct sunlight. Drinking water should also be provided throughout the trip. Cats are known to maintain their calm by moving to a cold location to lick their fur. However, if they are traveling in a box or car, they might not be able to do this. It is your responsibility to ensure their temperature is at the right level.

Take a regular check from your vet.

If your pet has a fever or panting that is not related to nervousness, it could be a sign of a severe illness. This is why having a proper check-up with a veterinarian can help to avoid further issues. If your cat has trouble breathing or is having an excessive amount of coughing, take her to the veterinarian immediately.

Always use a proper carrier.

You will want to ensure that your cat is as stress-free as possible during her transfer. While on the way to the clinic, keep her in a carrier or box to protect her breathing. If your cat is prone to panting while riding in the car or getting on the carrier, you can do some things to reduce the possibility of this happening. One of these is exposing the animal to the carrier before the trip begins.

Read also: How Big Should a Cat Carrier Be? – With Size Guide

Give your cat some rest.

Give your cat or kitten a break from their usual activities to allow their breathing to return to normal. If they are overheated, take them to a cool place and give them water.

Read also: Can Cats Drink Distilled Water?


When Should I Worry About My Cat Panting?

Like dogs, cats also tend to pant when they are stressed or overheated. However, unlike their canine companions, they rarely do so for prolonged periods. Instead, they should stop when they have the chance to cool down.

However, if your cat’s breathing or activity is unusual, it could be a sign of a serious medical condition. It is important to get her medical attention immediately.


Tips For Preventing Cat Panting Stress

Although it is not considered a medical condition, panting in cats can be caused by various factors. One of these is being overweight. Having the right diet and exercise can help prevent this issue. If your cat is overweight, make sure that he is getting the proper nutrition and activity to prevent him from getting overheated.

Also, make sure that he has access to clean and fresh water. It is important for your cat as it can help prevent her from getting too hot. Also, take your cat to the veterinarian for regular a check-up and vaccinations.


Final Words

So, do cats pant when stressed? Absolutely, yes! But, having the right ways to keep your cat from panting is a good choice. Give them proper care and love to maintain good relations and a healthy lifestyle, and as much as possible, avoid the things that might trigger stress in cats.

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