Why does my old cat's heart beat hard and she shakes while resting?

Oh no. Poor kitty. Blood pressure can be affected by either of these conditions, but is impossible to say for sure without getting her blood pressure checked. This is a tough one, because there are so many possible causes for her weakness and slow breathing, but I would have to assume that her underlying heart condition may be the culprit here. Saddle thrombus is also a big concern with cats that have underling heart disease, and can lead to sudden paralysis of the hindlegs, with vocalization (moaning). I know you don't trust the other vets in the area, but it may be worthwhile at least taking her in to see if her blood pressure is indeed the problem. Getting some bloodwork analysis on her may also be indicated, depending on her physical exam findings. We have to keep mind too, that unfortunately CHF patients can only be helped with medication for oh so long, because it does not cure the underlying problem. I hope that Brancinia is going to be ok, but its best to take her in immediately. Waiting for your preferred vet in this situation may be more detrimental to her overall wellbeing than taking her in to determine her current status. I wish you all the best with your furry friend. Take care.

Increased respiratory rate can be a sign of congestive heart failure and it sounds like you should have your vet examine Wriggy soon. Thyroid disease is also common in older cats and can cause an increased heart rate and ravenous appetite typically along with weight loss.

I am so sorry to hear about Charlie, it sounds as though she is doing quite poorly. Unfortunately at this age there are many possible causes for her symptoms including kidney disease, thyroid disease, dental disease, cancers, and more. She is not going to improve without medical intervention if she is as you describe. If you are unable to afford diagnostics/treatment, I would recommend considering humanely euthanizing her, as it sounds as though she is suffering. If you want to look into resources for helpin affording vet bills you can look at https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/having-trouble-affording-veterinary-care

It sounds like Jenny is pretty sick. Viral infections are very common in kittens and can make them sick very fast. The high heart rate worries me that her body is struggling to maintain normal blood flow or normal oxygen levels in her blood stream. I recommend to take her into the veterinarians office asap as this sounds like an emergency. The doctor will provide supportive care (fluids, antibiotics) and may recommend a radiograph to rule out pneumonia. Take Jenny needs care fast. Best of luck.

I wonder if maybe she has neurologic damage or did not heal after the panleukopenia. I would talk to your vet about blood work, a neurologic exam, and maybe referral to a specialist in internal medicine or neurology to determine what could be causing the shaking and loss of balance. Increased respiratory rate or changes in breathing sounds could indicate an upper respiratory infection, a nasal polyp, or possible scar tissue from previous infection.

Older cats can experience an over active thyroid that can make then walk around vocalizing and change their water intake. They can also experience high blood pressure and a form of dementia that can cause wandering with vocalization. With these symptoms and her age, I would take her for blood work and exam. They can evaluate her health and check her kidneys, thyroid and blood pressure and prescribe what medicine is needed.

It sounds like Mary may be in distress. Since she can't talk and tell you what is going on, I recommend to have her examined by the veterinarian today. she could be painful somewhere in her body including something like painful anal glands or a bladder infection. I hope this helps.