Cat CPR

CPR for Cats – Step-by-Step Guidance

In this section, we will look at how to perform CPR on a cat. Although cardiac arrest in cats is rare, knowing what to do and acting quickly can be lifesaving.

Step 1: Ensure the Area Is Safe

Before approaching the cat, stop and check that it is safe for you to do so. Cats may collapse due to electrocution, chemical exposure, or environmental hazards.

Do not put yourself at risk. Make sure any electricity, chemicals, or other dangers are removed or controlled before you touch the cat.

Step 2: Check for Responsiveness

Call the cat by name and gently rub or touch them to see if there is any response.

You are looking for any movement, sound, or reaction. If the cat responds, keep them calm and seek veterinary care immediately.

Step 3: Check Breathing

If the cat is unresponsive, check whether they are breathing:

• Lay the cat on their side
• Place your ear or hand against the side of their chest
• Look for chest movement and listen for breath sounds

If the cat is breathing normally, CPR is not required. Transport them to a vet as soon as possible.

Step 4: Check for a Heartbeat

If you cannot detect normal breathing, check for circulation:

• Place your ear or hand on the left side of the chest
• The best location is roughly where the front elbow meets the chest

Check for up to 10 seconds. If there is no breathing and no heartbeat, begin CPR immediately.

Step 5: Chest Compressions

To deliver chest compressions on a cat:

• Encircle the chest with both hands
• Place your thumbs over the widest part of the chest, just behind the front legs
• Compress the chest to around one-third of its depth
• Use a steady rhythm and allow full chest recoil between compressions

Deliver 30 chest compressions at a consistent pace. Full recoil is essential, as this allows the heart to refill with blood.

Step 6: Rescue Breaths

After 30 compressions:

• Check the mouth briefly for any visible obstruction
• Gently pull the tongue forward to help open the airway
• Place your mouth over the cat’s mouth and nose
• Give two gentle breaths, just enough to see the chest rise

Do not overinflate the lungs, as this can force air into the stomach.

Step 7: Continue CPR

Continue cycles of:

• 30 chest compressions
• 2 rescue breaths

Every two minutes, briefly stop to check for breathing and a heartbeat.

If the Cat Shows Signs of Life

If the cat starts breathing, moving, or you detect a heartbeat:

• Stop CPR immediately
• Keep the cat warm and calm
• Transport them to a vet without delay

Working With a Second Person

If two people are present, one can continue CPR while the other contacts the vet or prepares transport. Using speakerphone can allow the vet to guide you during resuscitation.

Key Points to Remember

• Always check for safety first
• Assess responsiveness, breathing, and heartbeat quickly
• Compress the chest to one-third of its depth
• Use cycles of 30 compressions and 2 breaths
• Allow full chest recoil after every compression
• Stop CPR immediately if the cat starts breathing

CPR on a cat is physically and emotionally challenging, but calm, confident action gives the best possible chance of survival.