Why is my cat breathing fast, shallow, and sleeping more than usual?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 12 lbs
My cat has been breathing really rapidly and sleeping a lot more than usual. She has some sort of cold or flu a few weeks ago, and we thought she recovered, but these past few days she’s been off. Right now she’s sleeping and she has very shallow, fast breaths.
2 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on March 10th, 2018
I am sorry to hear that Mochi isn’t feeling well. Abnormal or difficulty in breathing can be a life threatening situation. Cats especially do not tolerate respiratory difficulties well and they will tend to become critical quickly. Pneumonia, feline asthma, heart disease, heartworm, and cancer are all common causes of respiratory problems in cats. I would highly encourage you to have her evaluated by a veterinarian immediately. A chest x-ray will likely be recommended to help determine the diagnosis and best treatment plan. Best of luck and I hope she improves soon. Thank you for using Pet Coach.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on March 15th, 2018
Hi there and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to address your concern. Without examining Noushi, it is difficult to say what the cause of the fast breathing is. If she is over-exerting herself, she may be panting because of exercise. If the temperature in the environment is warm, she may be panting due to temperature as well. If none of the above are causes, she may have a respiratory problem. If she continues to pant and breathe rapidly, I would recommend having a veterinarian examine her to be on the safe side to ensure her lungs sound normal. I hope this helps guide you in the right direction. Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns and I would be more than happy to help you further!
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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