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Why is my healthy female cat suddenly having trouble breathing?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | 7 lbs

I’m wondering y a seemingly healthy female cat Would start all of a sudden show signs of respiratory distress. What is going one her. She is breathing heavily

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1 Answer

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Answered By Ana M, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 24th, 2019

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Lulu. I recommend that she sees a veterinarian right away if she is having difficulty breathing. This is usually open mouthed breathing in a cat or a rapid respiratory rate. This can be due to a respiratory tract infection, asthma, heart disease or even fluid in her chest. Her veterinarian will listen to her heart and lungs and may recommend x-rays. Once the cause of her symptoms is diagnosed, treatment can be started. Cats hide illness very well. So it is not unusual for a seemingly healthy cat to develop problems without much warning. I hope this information helps!

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