What Should I Do If My Cat Is Choking
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Sarah Jenkins, DVM, Feline Internal Medicine Specialist
Recognizing Choking in Cats
Choking occurs when an object blocks the airway, preventing your cat from breathing. This is a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate action. Recognizing the signs quickly can make the difference between life and death for your cat.
Common Causes of Choking
Objects Cats Might Swallow
Cats are curious creatures and may accidentally swallow various small objects. Common choking hazards include small toys, rubber bands, hair ties, string, thread (especially with needles attached), small balls, bones, and food pieces that are too large.
Signs of Choking
Immediate Warning Signs
Watch for sudden distress and pawing at the mouth. Your cat may also drool excessively or have difficulty swallowing. Gagging or retching without producing anything is concerning. Making distressed or panicked sounds, especially high-pitched sounds, is a clear indicator.
Breathing Difficulties
Labored breathing with the neck extended is a serious sign. Wheezing or coughing sounds suggest an airway obstruction. Blue or pale gums and tongue indicate oxygen deprivation. Open-mouth breathing in cats is always abnormal.
Behavioral Changes
Panicked behavior, running around frantically, or hiding may indicate your cat is experiencing distress. If your cat becomes unconscious, this is a critical emergency requiring immediate intervention.
Initial Steps to Take
Stay Calm
Your cat can sense your emotions, so staying as calm as possible helps both of you. Take a deep breath and proceed carefully but quickly.
Check the Mouth
Open your cat’s mouth carefully by grasping the upper jaw and pressing the lips inward over the teeth. Look for any visible obstruction. If you can see something, try to remove it carefully with your fingers or tweezers. Be extremely careful not to push the object further down the throat.
Do Not Reach Blindly
Never blindly sweep your finger in the mouth unless you can feel an obstruction. This can cause injury or push an object deeper.
The Heimlich Maneuver for Cats
For Small Cats
If the object cannot be removed, hold your cat with its back against your chest. Locate the rib cage and make a fist just below the sternum. Give three to five firm upward thrusts. Check the mouth after each set of thrusts and remove any dislodged object.
For Larger Cats
Lay the cat on its side with its back against a surface. Place one hand on the back and use the heel of your other hand just below the rib cage. Give three to five sharp thrusts toward the spine and chest. Check the mouth between thrusts.
Modified Approach
If you’re unable to perform full thrusts, hold the cat upside down by the hips and give sharp shakes. Gravity may help dislodge the object. You can also lay the cat on its side and give sharp blows between the shoulder blades.
After Successfully Removing the Object
Recovery Steps
Once the object is removed, keep your cat calm and quiet. Allow your cat to rest and monitor breathing closely. Offer a small amount of water to ensure swallowing is normal. Even if your cat seems fine, a veterinary examination is still recommended to check for internal injuries or remaining debris.
When CPR Is Needed
If your cat becomes unconscious and doesn’t start breathing after the obstruction is removed, CPR may be necessary. Continue rescue breathing until your cat responds or you reach veterinary care.
Preventing Choking Hazards
Cat-Proof Your Home
Keep small objects, rubber bands, hair ties, and similar items stored away. Supervise your cat during play with toys that could become hazardous. Choose appropriately sized toys for your cat’s size. Keep thread, string, and yarn safely stored away.
Feeding Safety
Cut food into appropriately sized pieces. Avoid giving bones that could splinter. Monitor cats when eating treats or chew toys.
When to Seek Immediate Veterinary Care
Contact a veterinarian or emergency clinic immediately if you cannot remove the obstruction, your cat loses consciousness, the gums remain blue or pale after clearing the airway, your cat shows signs of shock, or you suspect internal injuries.
Important Considerations
Never panic or shake your cat violently, as this can cause additional injuries. Even after successfully removing an object, have your cat examined by a veterinarian. Some objects cause internal damage that isn’t immediately apparent.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional veterinary advice. Choking is a serious emergency. If you are unable to clear your cat’s airway or if your cat shows any signs of distress after an incident, please contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital immediately.