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My cat breathes fast and wheezes. Should I worry if he acts normal?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 11 months and 9 days old | 13 lbs

I’m not sure if my cat’s breathing is abnormal (I’m kind of a hypochondriac). It’s faster than 28 breaths per min. But he’s up to date on all his vet visits and they’ve never said anything. I hear a slight wheeze, but for the most part he seems fine. Should I be concerned if his behavior is the same? He does seem to get out of breath with intense play.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on July 10th, 2018

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

The best way to measure respiratory rates in animals is when they are asleep. In cats and young animals it is very hard when they are awake as they are sniffing and in cats they purr. I would count his breathing the next time he is in a deep sleep and not purring. I think he is likely fine. He is a young cat and as long as he isn't coughing (sounds like a hair ball) or open mouth panting I think things are fine. if you are still concerned then I would have your Vet examine him.

I wish you the best!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on March 27th, 2018
It isn’t normal for any cat to have respiratory difficulty. If he is just breathing hard in spurts and it seems to be related to increased activity, then this isn’t worrisome. However if his breathing appears to be labored and tough for him to get adequate oxygen, then this is cause for concern and I high recommend taking him in to your local vet right away.
He is an older cat so there is an increased risk for respiratory problems including: feline asthma, underlying heart disease, a primary lung disease or even a parasitic lung worm (not as common).
I hope that everything turns out ok for your pet Bear and his breathing issues. Best of luck to you and take care.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM
Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident
Published on September 3rd, 2017
Hi there! Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! First of all, he is super handsome! Rapid breathing is very concerning in cats and can happen secondary to asthma though other conditions such as heart disease and congestive heart failure are possible. It is very important to identify what exactly is affecting Willy as all of these conditions are treated differently. I recommend that you have him evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment which may include chest radiographs. This is usually very telling in terms of being able to know what it may be, and what the best treatment is for it. Good luck! I really hope you kitty Willy does well!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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