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My senior cat is grunting and breathing hard. Is it an emergency?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 7 lbs

Elderly female feline with 43 breaths per minute, similar to purring in appearance (chest movements), impression of labored breathing, stertor. Slightly elevated heart rate, normal temp, normal gum and nose color, will eat and drink normally. Significantly altered breath sounds in past three hours, don't know how to describe but will try: pulsatile, croaking grunts on exhalation. ER further away, vet in 6 hours, or vet at first convenience?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Rebecca, DVM

Answered By Rebecca, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on September 3rd, 2017

With any cat showing potential signs of respiratory distress this is an immediate emergency. I strongly recommend going to the ER clinic now. I cardiac disease in cats often goes undetected until the point that they have difficulty breathing. Hopefully it's not that serious but it is worth erring on the side of caution and getting her checked as soon as possible.
Best of luck to Maud and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach
Vote Icon1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on July 1st, 2018

    I am afraid this is an emergency. Your cat could have a pulmonary blood clot, a foreign body in her airway or other airway-obstructing problem. Please take her to an out of hours vet now. If you do not know where to take her, ring your vet and his answering service will refer you to the best place.

    Vote Icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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