What are the reasons why a cat keeps panting?

A cat that keeps panting may be due to various reasons such as feeling threatened, intense exercise, heat stroke, pain, or respiratory infections. As there are many causes for a cat to keep panting, it is important for the owner to carefully observe whether the cat has other abnormal behaviors. If the cat has symptoms such as sneezing, running nose, coughing, etc., it is advisable to bring the cat to the pet hospital for examination and treatment immediately.

1. Feeling threatened

Cats have a strong sense of territory. When they feel threatened, such as when others or other animals approach their territory, they will fiercely pant to intimidate them. This is normal, but owners should not approach the cat at this time to avoid being scratched or bitten. Wait for the cat's emotions to stabilize before providing appropriate comfort to alleviate the cat's tension and reduce its stress response.

1. Intense exercise

After intense exercise, the cat's heart rate accelerates, and its body temperature rises, so it will pant to quickly recover its breath. There is no need to worry too much, just bring the cat to a quiet place to rest for a while.

1. Heat stroke

In hot summer days, high environmental temperatures can easily lead to heat stroke in cats. Since cats mainly rely on foot pads and respiration to dissipate heat, they will pant like dogs to lower their body temperature when suffering from heat stroke. At this time, move the cat to a shady place, wipe its body with a wet towel, and prepare enough water for it to drink anytime.

After emergency treatment, when the cat's body recovers slightly, it is better to take the cat to the pet hospital for a checkup. If the cat has severe heat stroke, it is advisable to bring it to the pet hospital for treatment immediately.

1. Pain

Cats have strong endurance, so they won't easily show signs of discomfort even when they have problems. However, when a cat really feels pain, it may pant uncontrollably in daily activities. Therefore, when the owner discovers that the cat keeps panting, they should carefully observe whether the cat is injured and handle the wounds in time.

1. Respiratory tract infection

Cats with respiratory tract infections may have difficulty breathing, which can also cause them to keep panting. Symptoms of feline respiratory infections mainly include sneezing, running nose, stuffy nose, coughing, etc. If your cat shows these symptoms, consult a pet doctor immediately for medication. Otherwise, it could lead to pneumonia or even shock.