My senior cat is grunting and breathing hard. Is it an emergency?

Question

Elderly female feline with 43 breaths per minute, similar to purring in appearance (chest movements), impression of labored breathing, stertor. Slightly elevated heart rate, normal temp, normal gum and nose color, will eat and drink normally. Significantly altered breath sounds in past three hours, don't know how to describe but will try: pulsatile, croaking grunts on exhalation. ER further away, vet in 6 hours, or vet at first convenience? Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 7 lbs

Rebecca, DVM · Accepted Answer

With any cat showing potential signs of respiratory distress this is an immediate emergency. I strongly recommend going to the ER clinic now. I cardiac disease in cats often goes undetected until the point that they have difficulty breathing. Hopefully it's not that serious but it is worth erring on the side of caution and getting her checked as soon as possible. Best of luck to Maud and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach

My senior cat is grunting and breathing hard. Is it an emergency?

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