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My cat breathes fast 5 days after spay. Is it normal or pain?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Maine Coon | Female | unspayed | 11 lbs

My cat just got spayed 5 days ago and She breathes rapidly sometimes? I don’t know if this is normal cuz she’s in pain or ?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Makenzie Kurth, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 24th, 2018

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I would say that occasional episodes of rapid breathing are not necessarily a cause to panic. Do take note of the timing though. Does it seem to be when the pain medication is wearing off or has it started since stopping pain medication? If so, talk to your vet. Some cats just need a few extra days of pain medication. Certain medications are also ok to give more often but ALWAYS ask your vet first as some of them are very UNSAFE to give more often. Of course, always watch attitude and appetite and if anything else seems amiss (coughing, difficulty breathing, etc), head to the vet right away. Best of luck to you and Sophie!

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 8th, 2018

    The incision looks great from the picture but of course I can't say for sure it is okay without doing an exam. It is very possible that this is secondary to pain if it is the first day off her medicine. I would make sure to keep her confined and not let her jump or be too active. If she is still acting like this when your vet reopens, I would call your vet to see if they want to recheck her or prescribe her some more pain medicine. Most cats bounce back from a spay pretty quickly so if she continues to breathe rapidly or like she is in distress within the next few minutes, I would strongly recommend to take her to your local emergency clinic if you have one. If she will let you without you getting bit, your could lift up her lip to check her gums as well and make sure they are pink. If they are white or blue then this is truly an emergency. I hope this helps!

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