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Why is my cat's chest moving fast when she's resting? Is it normal?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 7 months and 27 days old

My cat seems like she's breathing quickly when she's laying down her chest area is rapidly moving but other than that she seems fine. How do I know if that is normal? I mean, is it normal for a cat's chest to show the breathing?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

Veterinarian

Published on July 21st, 2017

Yes it is normal for you to be able to see her chest rise and fall as she breathes but she shouldn't be breathing fast. Usually when resting they will have a respiratory rate of less that 20 breaths per minute. You can count this by counting each rise in her chest over a minute. If she is breathing rapidly or open mouth breathing then there is likely something seriously wrong like a respiratory infection or heart problem. And I would advise you to seek medical attention as soon as possible. I hope this helps.

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