How to Perform CPR on Your Cat

Quck answer

CPR (Cardiopulmonary resuscitation) is an emergency procedure that can save the life of a cat if done correctly. Follow these steps to give your cat CPR:

1. Check for breathing and pulse. Place your hand on the cat’s chest to check for breathing and a heartbeat. If there is no breathing or a heartbeat, proceed to step 2.

2. Clear the airway. Open the cat’s mouth and remove any obstructions. Tilt the head back and extend the neck.

3. Perform rescue breathing. Close the cat’s mouth and cover its nose with your mouth. Blow into the cat’s nose for 2 seconds and wait for the chest to rise. Repeat this every 5 seconds.

4. Perform chest compressions. Place the cat on its side and locate the heart on the left side of the chest. Place one hand on top of the other and compress the chest 100-120 times per minute.

5. Check for breathing and pulse every 2 minutes. Continue the CPR until the cat starts breathing or a veterinarian takes over.

Remember to remain calm and focused during the procedure and seek professional help as soon as possible.

Pets

If your cat loses consciousness for any reason, its breathing and heart rate may stop. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a technique used to restart the heart and restore breathing. It involves using pressure on the heart to maintain blood flow and providing artificial respiration. It is recommended that two people perform CPR together, with one person focusing on the heart while the other performs artificial respiration [source: Glendale Animal Hospital]. If you are alone, you will need to alternate between compressions and breaths [source: Foster and Smith]. Follow these steps to perform CPR on your cat.

1. Place the cat on its side.
2. Check the cat’s mouth to ensure nothing is blocking its airway.
3. Extend the cat’s head and neck.
4. Provide artificial respiration by blowing into the cat’s nose while keeping its mouth shut. Give two breaths, allowing the air to exit the lungs between each breath. You should see the chest rise and fall as you provide the breaths. Do this about 20 times per minute.
5. Place one hand over the cat’s rib cage, on top of the heart, and place the other hand on top of the first hand.
6. Push down about one inch (2.5 centimeters) and then release the pressure. You should perform compressions at a rate of about 80 times per minute.
7. After 30 compressions, provide two breaths of artificial respiration.
8. Continue performing CPR until the cat can breathe on its own [sources: University of Washington, Foster and Smith].

FAQ

1. What is CPR for cats and why is it important?

CPR stands for cardiopulmonary resuscitation, which is a lifesaving technique used in emergency situations. For cats, CPR involves a combination of chest compressions and artificial respiration to restore the blood flow and breathing. It is important to know how to perform CPR on your cat in case of an emergency, such as if they stop breathing or their heart stops beating. Prompt CPR can help keep your cat alive until you can get them to a veterinarian for further treatment.

2. How do I know if my cat needs CPR?

If your cat is unconscious and not breathing, or if you are unable to detect a heartbeat, they may need CPR. It is important to note that performing CPR on a cat who doesn’t need it can actually cause harm, so it’s important to properly assess their condition before starting the procedure. If you’re unsure if your cat needs CPR, consult with a veterinarian or trained animal care professional for guidance.

3. What steps should I take before performing CPR on my cat?

Before starting CPR on your cat, it’s important to ensure their airway is clear of any obstructions, such as food or other items. You should also place your cat on a hard surface and check for a pulse or breathing. If neither is present, you can begin the CPR process. It’s also important to have someone call for emergency veterinary care while you are performing CPR.

4. What is the proper technique for performing CPR on a cat?

The proper technique for performing CPR on a cat involves placing them on their side, extending their head and neck, and performing chest compressions and artificial respiration in a specific sequence. The compressions should be done with the palms of your hands over their sternum, while the artificial respiration involves breathing into their nose or mouth while holding their mouth shut. It’s important to follow proper technique and seek guidance from a veterinarian or trained animal care professional to ensure you’re performing CPR correctly.

5. Can I hurt my cat while performing CPR?

While there is a risk of injuring your cat while performing CPR, it’s important to remember that performing CPR is often the only way to save their life in an emergency situation. To minimize the risk of injury, it’s important to follow proper technique and seek guidance from a veterinarian or trained animal care professional. Additionally, it’s important to be aware of your cat’s condition and stop performing CPR if they start breathing or their heart starts beating again.