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Cat breathing fast, hiding, lethargic after moving. Is it stress or vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Female | spayed | 2 years and 8 months old

We just moved and the cat is very distressed and I want to make sure that's all it is. She is breathing rapidly, hiding, I can't get a look at gum color, and lethargic. I don't want to rush her off to the vet if all she needs is to feel secure and have alone quiet time

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Vanessa Yeager DVM MPH

Veterinarian

Published on September 17th, 2017

Hi and thank you for your post. Lethargy along with hiding and rapid breathing are signs of a concerning health issue that should be addressed at your nearest clinic very soon. It is hard to say for sure whether this is anxiety related or not without examining Pusheen first, but it may be unlikely given the symptoms you mentioned. My advice is to take Pusheen to her veterinarian soon to rule out more serious health concerns. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach and best wishes to you!

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