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do cats pant like dogs


Do Cats Pant Like Dogs?

Panting is a way for mammals, including both cats and dogs, to regulate their body temperatures when they get too hot. While panting is common in canines, it can be a bit more difficult to spot in felines. Do cats pant like dogs? The short answer is yes, but cats differ in how and when they pant.

Cats Pant Because of Heat Stress

Cats may pants to cool off similar to dogs, but they are typically under more heat stress due to their thicker fur coats. Cats pant when their inner bodies are feeling hot and uncomfortable. Other common reasons cats will pant include anxiety, pain, and cardiovascular issues.

How Cats Pant

Unlike dogs, cats don’t have any sweat glands. So, when cats pant it isn’t like dogs panting with their tongues out. Instead, cats have pretty shallow breathing, sometimes with their mouths slightly ajar. They typically take 20-40 breaths per minute when panting.

Signs of Panting

If you suspect that your cat is panting due to heat stress, there are other signs of panting you can look out for in addition to shallow breathing:

  • Uber-Quick Pulse Rates: A normal resting pulse rate for cats is between 120 and 200 beats per minute. When a cat is panting due to heat stress, their pulse rate will likely increase.
  • Lethargy: In the heat, the body has to work harder to cool itself, so a panting cat may become less active than normal.
  • Excessive Grooming: Cats are great at grooming themselves to stay cool, and excessive grooming can also be an expression of stress or anxiety that may lead to panting.

Preventing Panting

If you believe your cat is panting due to heat stress, you can help your cat cool down by providing them with a cool and shady area and fan (if the temperature warrants). Additionally, if you notice your cat panting and it seems to be accompanied by any other signs of illness, it’s best to get them checked out by a vet just in case.

Ultimately, cats do pant like dogs, but in a less visible way. When cats pant, they will typically take rapid and shallow breaths with their mouths slightly open, accompanied by other signs of heat stress such as an increased pulse rate and lethargy. Be sure to keep an eye out for panting, especially when the temperatures are very hot, to proactively help ensure your cat stays cool and comfortable!

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