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My cat breathes rapidly in her sleep, should I be worried about it?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Female | spayed | 8 months and 14 days old | 10 lbs

Greetings, doctor I noticed that my cat has been breathing rapidly, even in her sleep. I read articles about tachypnea, and I just discovered a lot of things can cause it. I have examined my cat, she still has pink gum, unchanging appetite, no coughing and she doesn't throw up at all. I tried counting the frequency of her breathing and she is on 60 times/minute on average. What is happening to my cat, and what should I do? Thank you doctor

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Vanessa Yeager DVM MPH

Veterinarian

Published on September 15th, 2017

Hi and thank you for your question this morning. Cats who are younger (11 months and younger) can have a higher heart rate and higher respiratory rate. 60 breaths/min can be considered normal in kittens without any signs of respiratory distress or upper respiratory signs (coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, etc). If all else is considered normal, this is OK. Sometimes when they are asleep or have a dream, their respiratory rate can increase. If they are hot, this can also increase respiratory rate. If you are still concerned though, you can always have Brianna checked out by your local veterinarian just to be certain all is okay. I hope his helps and best withes to you! Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

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Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Vanessa Yeager DVM MPH

    Veterinarian

    Published on September 15th, 2017

    Hello! I think you have already posted this question on Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. In younger cats 60breaths/min can be considered normal. Young animals have a higher heart rate and respiratory rate all else being normal. If you are still concerned, you may take her into your local veterinarian for a check up just to make sure. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

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