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My overweight cat pants when playing. Is this normal or concerning?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 6 years and 11 months old

When my over weight cat play he has his mouth open. Is this normal for fat cats?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Ann Dion, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 28th, 2018

Hello and welcome to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Usually, No. Most cats will only have their mouths open if they are having trouble breathing. There are some cats that have odd behaviours such as this and it isn't concerning, however if this is a new change for Simba then I would recommend getting him checked right away to make sure there isn't a problem with his lungs or heart. It is concerning he only opens his mouth while playing (increased energy expenditure), because this might mean that his heart can't keep up with the stress of playing.

Best of luck with Simba, hopefully it is just behavioural however I would get him checked to be sure.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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