How to perform CPR on cats

Assess your cat's condition:

Only perform CPR if the cat is unconscious, has no pulse or is not breathing! Not sure? Try pinching the cat's paw to see if it reacts. Inhalations should only be given after you have ensured a clear airway and that inhalation is possible. It is best if you are two people and can support each other with breaths and compressions.

How to take a cat's pulse?

To feel the pulse (in the femoral artery), gently place your fingertips on the inside of your cat's thigh, near the groin. Move your fingers gently until you find the pulse. It can be difficult to find the pulse of a cat, especially in an emergency situation. If the cat is unconscious and you can't find a pulse, start CPR.

How to feel a cat's heartbeat?

The heart is located on the left side of the chest. If you bend your leg up, the heart is just inside. Put your hands on either side of your chest to feel the heartbeat.

How do I know if the cat is not breathing?

Look if your chest moves when you breathe in and out. If you don't see any movement, hold your hand in front of the cat's nose to feel for airflow. You can also hold a small mirror in front of your nose and see if fog forms. If your cat's mucous membranes are bluish, this indicates severely reduced oxygenation – first check that no object is blocking the airway.

How do I perform cardiac compressions?

In cats and small dogs, you can perform cardiac compressions with one hand. Lay the cat on its right side and grab its chest so that its thumb is at the heart (behind the left front leg, roughly where the elbow meets the ribcage) and the fingers on the other side of the chest.

• Press your thumb against your fingers.
• Do compressions at a rate of 100-120 per minute.

How do I perform artificial respiration?

Gently pull out your cat's tongue and check that nothing is blocking the airway.

• Close the cat's mouth and place your mouth over the cat's nose and mouth (or just the nose if the cat is small).
• Gently blow in air until you see your chest rise (use small, gentle breaths – cats are small and sensitive to excess pressure).

Keep in mind:

Cat CPR is an emergency procedure and should only be performed if the cat is unconscious, not breathing, and/or has no pulse. Always contact your veterinarian as soon as possible.