Stray cat sick: heavy breathing, eye discharge. How to get vet help?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Hi. I have been looking after a stray cat for some years. Lately he doesn't look well and seems to be going worse with heavy, noisy breathing, he keeps swallowing and gags when purring but hasn't been sick. He isn't eating as much as before and sometimes gags when looking at food but is fine when eating. He has brown discharge from eyes. I think he is old but don't know exact age. He is nervous so we can't put him in a carrier and take him to vets. Can you give me any advice please. Thanks.
4 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on December 31st, 2016
He does need to see a vet as soon as possible, as he could have a severe respiratory infection, heart disease, or possibly even cancer if he's an older cat. I would call the RSPCA to come out and get him. They can get him the medical treatment he needs.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on January 14th, 2019
Poor dude! Taking him to a shelter is definitely a good option so he can get the care he needs. It sounds like he may have an upper respiratory infection, which can cause discharge from the eyes and nose as well as raspy breathing, fever, and loss of appetite. This does need to be treated by a vet to help get him feeling better. Other issues can include injuries that are infected and causing problems, illnesses, parasites, etc, so bringing him to the shelter where a vet can take a look and get him started on some care is a good idea. If you're having trouble catching him, warming up some wet food or even fried chicken to make it super smelly can be enticing enough to get him to enter the carrier or cage if needed (cats tend to have an appetite based on the smells of food.)
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on May 26th, 2017
This is probably an upper respiratory infection. it's very common in stary cats and is very contagious to other cats as well. It is treated with antibiotic eye drops/ointment and oral antibiotics for about 2 weeks. if left untreated many cats will end up blind or even die from the disease. I advise taking him to the vet asap to start the treatment right away, i don't see a possible alternative for that unfortunately.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on January 30th, 2019
Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! He really looks sick. He most likely suffered some kind of trauma or could have developed an infection. Regardless, this warrants a veterinary evaluation for further assessment as soon as possible as he looks to be in pain or discomfort. They would be able to diagnose his issue to treat him accordingly. I am afraid this cannot be treated at home and he needs veterinary care. Best of luck!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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