My cat is lethargic, shaking, and struggling to breathe. Emergency?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Male | neutered | 17 lbs
My cat is shaking and raspily purring he's off his food and very lethargic. He sort of gasps in pain if he moves too much and it sounds like he can't breathe very well what's wrong with him?
2 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on November 25th, 2018
This is an emergency and you need to take your kitty to a veterinarian or PetER right away. Respiratory distress is very serious and your cat will need a thorough exam, possibly oxygen, and supportive care. He is purring because he is ill and is trying to appease everyone around him. The signs of illness are very unspecific so please take your cat to the ER now.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on May 16th, 2018
This is a serious emergency and you need to take her to a pet ER right now. Please take her now as she may have a pulmonary embolism, cardiac crisis, or other life-threatening condition. Here are ERs close to you: http://www.petflight.com/zip_codes/60419/vet_clinics
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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