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Why does my cat pant like a dog after playing? Is it a problem?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 6 months and 11 days old

Gus sometimes runs around the house playing, but then will pant a lot like a dog afterwards. Is that okay/normal for a cat? He doesn't seem to have anything wrong with him.

5 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on March 27th, 2017

No, it's not normal for a cat to pant like a dog. Cats typically do not exhibit open mouth breathing, and it's a sign of respiratory distress. It could be Gus may have a heart problem causing this open mouth breathing after he plays, but without seeing him in person I can't say for certain. I would have him seen by a vet for a physical exam, routine blood tests, urinalysis, and chest x-rays. These tests will help the vet identify if the does have a heart condition causing his symptoms. Should one be found, the vet can discuss treatment options with you.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    I'm glad to hear that Gus does not seem to have any major problems, but it is not normal for cats to pant - even after a lot of activity. Oftentimes it is indicative of underlying respiratory or cardiac diseases, including asthma, heartworm disease, and heart disease. Gus should be evaluated by his vet and will likely need chest x-rays to determine if he has any overt abnormalities.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on November 5th, 2016

    No, it is not normal for cats to open mouth breathe, and it is usually a sign of respiratory distress. I would be concerned that DoReMi may have a congenital heart defect causing this opening mouth breathing after playing. I would take him into the vet for an exam. The vet can do a physical exam, routine blood tests, a urinalysis, x-rays, ultrasound, and/or an echocardiogram to see if there is a condition with his heart causing this open mouth breathing. I would take him into today for an exam.

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    Answered By Sarah Derksen, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on July 29th, 2018

    Hi. No, this is not normal. Especially in cats. I would definitely recommend getting him seen by your veterinarian. They will check heart, lungs, and chest radiographs. One of the potentials I would consider is asthma or heart disease. Exam, lab work and x-rays will be your first step. Good luck

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    Answered By Ana M, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on July 25th, 2018

    Thank you for submitting your question regarding Rambo. If he only displays this type of breathing directly after hard play, it is likely normal. He simply played so hard that he is out of breathe. If he displays this open mouth breathing at rest, it is a sign of respiratory distress and is worrisome. I recommend limiting play to shorter more frequent sessions. Given his breed, he does not breathe well in general. Hard prolonged play will put stress on his respiratory system. I hope this information helps!

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