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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?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

Veterinarian

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.

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