Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

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.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

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.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

    Veterinary Technician

    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.)

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?
Is your mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and pussy? Dr. Melanie, a certified vet, discusses severe eye issues like infection or abscess, urging an immediate visit.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
What's the best way to feed my hamster when I'm going on a trip?
Planning a trip to Chicago and need to feed your Syrian hamster? A certified vet offers expert advice on feeding options for short and long trips, plus finding trusted pet sitters.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?
Can your chickens eat bell peppers and salads? Veterinarian Dr. Elizabeth offers expert advice on safe feeding, frequency, and how fresh veggies boost vibrant yolks.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Is Purina Layer Pellets good for chickens? What other feeds exist?
Is Purina Layer Pellets the right choice for your flock? Get expert advice from a Petco veterinarian on Purina and other top chicken feed brands for your chickens.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
My newly adopted pet won't eat hay. What can I do to encourage it?
Adopted a pet not eating hay? Dr. Stafford, a certified vet, offers expert guidance on encouraging hay consumption, including adjusting pellets and trying fresh types.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored