Why is my 20-year-old senior cat suddenly having breathing issues?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 20 years and 7 months old
My cat is 20 years old she has breathing problems
2 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on January 23rd, 2017
Poor Spice! These breathing problems could be caused by heart disease, respiratory disease, or cancer among others. This is quite a serious symptom in senior cats, as there are a number of severe diseases that can cause this, and I would have Spice seen today for a physical exam, a geriatric blood panel, urinalysis, and x-rays. Once the cause of her breathing difficulties are found, the vet can discuss treatment options.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on February 21st, 2020
Old age is possible, but it could also be pain from arthritis, heart or lung disease, or other issues. I would recommend having Pepper examined by a vet. Now that she can be classified as "geriatric," she should have examinations every 6-12 months to monitor for age-related diseases.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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