First Aid for Cats: Basic Tips and First Aid Kit Essentials
- Rachel
- 17 hours ago
- 11 min read
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Common Emergencies in Cats
There's a saying that cats have nine lives, a myth that likely originated from their knack for escaping danger, with quick reflexes; remarkable agility and the ability to land on their feet. Some might call them lucky, but there's a big difference between a cat's inherent survival skills and immortality! When an emergency strikes, knowing the basics of feline first aid and having the correct supplies to hand could be the difference between life and death.
Common accidents and emergencies in cats include:
Injuries like burns, cuts and broken bones.
Choking or swallowing foreign objects.
Bite wounds from other cats or larger animals, including dogs.
Road traffic accidents.
Falling from windows and heights.
Poisoning.
Bites from venomous spiders and snakes.
In some countries, gunshot wounds.
Your first response in any situation should be to call a vet immediately after discovering there's a problem, who can offer instructions over the phone and prepare for your arrival; however, emergencies often happen out of the blue. There's no harm in being prepared to give first aid until you can get proper medical attention or on the way to a clinic.
Related post: How to Prepare Cats for a Vet Visit and Reduce Stress
How to Measure a Cat's Vital Signs
Since cats are experts at hiding illness or pain, knowing their vital signs can help to detect any problems that you can communicate to your vet. The easiest way to monitor your cat's health is by measuring their body temperature, heart rate and respiratory rate. These may vary depending on age, health, activity levels and other factors.
You should not rely on this information to determine the health status of your cat. If you suspect a problem then seek veterinary advice.
Body Temperature
A body temperature of 38-39°C is considered normal for cats. Some may be slightly higher or lower, but most sources state that the range should be between 37.2-39.2°C.
Rectal thermometers provide the most accurate reading, but I do not recommend this unless you've been properly trained. A digital ear thermometer can also be used, but your cat will likely not enjoy this method either.
In terms of an emergency, low body temperature could be due to shock, cold or various illnesses. A high temperature can indicate fever resulting from an immune system response, such as fighting inflammation or infections; and heatstroke.
Resting Heart Rate
A cat's heart rate can fluctuate depending on how relaxed or stressed it is but typically ranges between 140-220 bpm (beats per minute). A calm, resting kitty will likely be at the lower end and can drop to 120-140 bpm according to the MSD Veterinary Manual.
180-220 bpm is considered stressed, frightened or elevated after a period of activity. Outside of these ranges can be a sign of serious health issues.
Most owners won't have a stethoscope but, with a bit of practice, you can use your hands to feel for a pulse. Here are some pointers to help:
Wait until your cat is lying down in a relaxed state as it'll be easier and give a more accurate reading.
The best place to locate a pulse is along the ribcage by placing a hand towards the cat's left side, underneath its arm where the elbow joins onto the body (or the "armpit" area).
You can also locate the femoral artery on the inside of the upper hind leg near to where it joins the body. Place two fingers flat onto the area and gently press until you can feel a pulse.
Using a stopwatch, count the number of beats for 15 seconds and then multiply that number by 4 to get the per minute rate. You can also count for 20 seconds and multiply by 3; 30 seconds and multiply by 2; or go for the full 60 seconds. The longer, the better - but it all depends on how compliant your kitty is.
Resting Respiratory Rate (RRR)
The PDSA states that the normal resting respiratory rate for cats is 16-40 bpm. This is how many breaths cats take for each minute while resting or sleeping. Some sources say that the average rate is under 30-35 bpm. A higher respiratory rate (shortness of breath) could be a signs of stress, pain or underlying heath conditions such as respiratory infections, asthma and heart failure.
Respiratory rate is easy to measure as you can watch your cat from afar without having to disturb them.
Wait until kitty is resting or sleeping, but not dreaming (or purring) as this can speed up breathing and won't give an accurate result. Signs of a dream state include twitching paws, legs, tail, mouth or whiskers; fluttering eyelids; soft vocalisations like chirping or whimpering.
Watch the rise and fall of their chest (each rise/fall equates to one breath).
Use a stopwatch to count how many breaths they take per 15 seconds and multiply by 4 to get the per minute rate (or 20/30/60 seconds as described above).
Make a note of your own cat's vital signs and repeat regularly so you can quickly identify any changes.
Feline First Aid Kit
A basic first aid kit for pets should include a selection of bandages, antiseptic and some essential instruments. Here I've compiled a list that you can find on reputable websites like the PDSA, ASPCA and Cats Protection.
Cleaning:
Sterile saline solution - flushing or rinsing a wound.
Cat-safe antiseptic solution, spray or wipes - disinfecting wounds.
Dressings and tools:
Sterile gauze pads - absorbing blood.
Cotton wool balls or swabs - cleaning areas.
Non-adhesive bandage pads - layering up wound coverage before dressing.
Self-adhesive bandages - stick to themselves without catching fur or having to use tape.
Bandage tape (if self-adhesive bandages are unavailable or adding extra security).
Tick remover.
Tweezers - also used for ticks, splinters and foreign objects.
Scissors with blunt or rounded ends so they don't catch the cat's skin when cutting bandages.
Disposable gloves.
Other items:
Emergency blanket - to keep warm (e.g., if cat goes into shock) or use as a stretcher.
Towel - soaked in cold water to keep cat cool if it overheats, or use as a stretcher.
Digital ear thermometer.
Stopwatch.
Torch/flashlight.
Ice pack
Remember to keep items stocked up and refill your kit after usage. It's also beneficial to keep your cat's medical information inside, as well as the number and address of your local vet. If you want to be extra thorough, a record of their vital signs may help the vet during an emergency.
Lastly, know where your cat carrier is and keep it lined with a blanket ready for use.
What to Do in an Emergency
When addressing an emergency, it's recommended to use the acronym: "Dr ABCs"
Danger - keep yourself and others around you safe.
Response - check if your pet responds to their name or touch.
Airway - is their airway clear?
Breathing - are they breathing?
Circulation - do they have a pulse or heartbeat?
Send - get someone to ask for help.
When cats are frightened or in pain, they're more likely to lash out and bite, so it's important to remain calm and approach them quietly. Keep doors closed so they can't run outside and confine them to a single room. If handling isn't possible or causes further distress, you can restrain them in a towel and place them into a carrier for transporting to a vet clinic.
As your cat's caretaker, you're one of the most important factors in recognising an emergency that might not be immediately obvious. Poisoning, for example, can have a delayed effect; and internal injuries can't be seen. Observing the slightest changes in behaviour and acting quickly can potentially save a life. You know what's normal for your cat and what isn't.
First Aid for Cats
The following information is not intended to replace veterinary treatment. First aid measures should only be used in the case of an emergency where help is not available. Always contact your vet at the first opportunity and follow any instructions given.
Cuts and Bleeding
Superficial Wounds
It's fairly easy to tell the difference between a superficial cut and a deeper wound, but sometimes they look more serious than they are. This is because it can take a couple of minutes for clotting to form.
Shallow cuts, scratches and grazes can usually be tended to at home; however, animals have a habit of licking and scratching affected areas which can cause infections and other issues. Keep an eye out for redness, swelling, itching, heat, discharge, foul odours, lethargy and fever.
A vet may prescribe antibiotics or apply protective measures, such as a collar, to give it a better chance of healing.
For more help and advice, read this useful article from the PDSA: First Aid for Cuts and Grazes
Heavy Bleeding
Bleeding that's heavier will likely need more urgent attention, as cats may collapse or go into shock if the bleeding doesn't stop within 5-15 minutes. Call a vet immediately.
Signs of shock include:
Pale gums.
Cool ears, paws or tail.
Rapid or shallow breathing.
Weak or rapid pulse.
Lethargy.
Unresponsiveness.
For more help and advice, read this useful article from the PDSA: First Aid for Bleeding
Serious Injuries
Seek immediate veterinary care if the wound is extensive; near sensitive areas such as the eyes or genitals; on the abdomen or chest.
Some accidents, particularly traffic related if animals have been dragged or knocked across a road, may result in areas of missing skin.
Internal Bleeding
Internal bleeding is usually life-threatening without medical intervention, so detecting it early is crucial. Some of the symptoms are similar to shock, but be on the lookout for:
Lethargy, weakness or collapse.
Cold ears, paws or tail.
Pale or white gums and paw pads.
Bruising.
Laboured breathing.
Rapid heartbeat.
Loss of appetite.
Swollen belly.
Vomiting (possibly with blood).
Dark, tarry stool.
Broken Bones
This type of injury can be harder to diagnose unless the skin is broken and the bone is visible. Some indicators of a broken bone and corresponding locations include:
Laboured breathing - ribs.
Limping or altered gait - limbs.
Reluctance to stand up or move - pelvis.
Not eating or drinking - jaw.
Unable to move - spine.
There may be signs of internal bleeding or shock, especially if a cat has been hit by a car or fallen from a height.
For more help and advice, read this useful article from the PDSA: First Aid for Broken Bones
Burns and Scalds
Burns aren't only painful but prone to infection and scarring. You must always contact a vet, no matter what size or degree of the burn. Chemical burns can be harder to spot under the fur and continue to damage the tissue long after exposure.
Signs of a chemical burn include:
Behavioural changes.
Vocalisations.
Excessive licking over the same area.
Hairless patches.
Redness.
Swelling.
Blisters.
Oozing/weeping.
Odours.
For more help and advice, read this useful article from the PDSA: First Aid for Burns
Bites
Other Animals
If a cat has been bitten by another cat or larger animal, it can create deep puncture wounds that may go unnoticed through their thick fur. Not only are mouths full of bacteria, but the top layers of skin may heal relatively quickly. This traps bacteria which can lead to infections and abscesses. Always get bites checked by a vet, particularly if the area is swollen, red or hot to the touch.
Attacks from large animals, especially wild ones, can cause internal damage or rabies infection (although rare in the UK). Be sure to provide your vet with any information about the animal.
For more help and advice, read this useful article from the PDSA: First Aid for Bite Wounds
Snakes & Spiders
Venomous snakes and spiders are rare in the UK but can cause death very quickly depending on the location of the bite and if it's left untreated. So too, we don't know if they're venomous until symptoms develop, which makes it even more important to seek veterinary help.
Make a note of the snake/spider if seen, or take a photo (from a distance). Be aware of those that are venomous, if any, and how it could affect cats.
Stings
In the UK, the most likely cause of stings are insects like bees and wasps. They commonly occur on the face, paws or mouth and cause mild itching, redness and swelling. The main concern is if the stinger remains in the skin and leads to additional irritation or infection.
If a cat is allergic to a sting, they can go into anaphylactic shock which requires immediate treatment. This is usually characterised by severe swelling of the affected area - any swelling near the airways or throat can restrict their ability to breathe.
Other signs of an allergic reaction include:
Skin rash or bumps.
Wheezing or panting.
Lethargy or weakness.
Pale gums.
Vomiting or diarrhoea.
Collapse.
Depending on the severity of the reaction, cats may need medication such as antihistamines and other anti-inflammatories administered by a vet. It's wise to research the different insects in your region so you know what to look out for.
For more help and advice, read this useful article from the PDSA: First Aid for Allergic Reactions and Insect Stings
Choking
Choking on foreign objects can quickly become serious as cats are unable to breathe properly due to obstruction of the airway. Signs of choking include:
Difficulty breathing or wheezing.
Gagging or retching.
Pawing at the mouth.
Drooling.
Blue tinged lips, gums or tongue.
Collapse.
This requires immediate medical intervention, both to remove the object and ensure there's no trauma to the throat.
This article from PetMD contains a useful guide on first aid for choking: How to Perform Heimlich Manoeuvre if a Cat Is Choking
Poisoning
Most cases of poisoning are due to a cat's curiosity getting the better of them and eating things they shouldn't. They may also lick harmful substances off their fur, inhale chemicals or absorb toxins through the skin. Different poisons can cause different reactions, but there are some general symptoms.
Drooling or foaming at the mouth.
Vomiting or diarrhoea.
Difficulty breathing.
Blue or pale gums.
Loss of appetite.
Increased thirst or urination.
Blood in vomit, urine or stool.
Loss of coordination.
Muscle tremors or seizures.
Weakness or collapse.
Coma.
In the UK, the best source of information on animal poisoning is the Veterinary Poison Information Service. If you suspect your cat has been poisoned, you can call their Animal PoisonLine for 24-hour specialist advice: 01202 509000
(It would be wise to keep this number in your first aid kit!)
Call your vet or the Animal PoisonLine immediately. If known, give the name of the substance that caused the poisoning; the amount ingested and time of exposure. You can also take the poison to the vet clinic with you, if it's safe.
This article from International Cat Care contains a useful guide on first aid for poisoning and removing contaminants from a cat's fur: Cats and Poisons
Seizures
Seizures can be caused by a range of underlying issues: head trauma, brain tumors, infection or inflammation; liver or kidney disease; low blood sugar and epilepsy. A single, short seizure usually passes within a couple of minutes but still requires investigation by a vet. Repeated, prolonged seizures that last 5 minutes or longer can indicate a serious medical issue.
For more help and advice, read this useful article from the PDSA: First Aid for Seizures
Emergencies and CPR
CPR, or cardiopulmonary resuscitation, is the treatment for cardiopulmonary arrest (CPA). It involves a combination of chest compressions and rescue breaths to restore circulation and breathing.
When a cat is suffering from CPA, it means their heart has stopped beating; they're not breathing on their own and have lost consciousness. There are many causes of CPA, including some of those we've already mentioned:
Traumatic injuries.
Blood loss.
Electrocution.
Allergic reactions.
Inability to breathe.
Heart problems.
Low blood pressure (shock).
Unfortunately, CPR is rarely successful on cats and depends on factors such as the cause of arrest and how soon treatment was started. It can also be dangerous to start CPR if the heart is still beating, which could lead to further harm and even death.
This is where "Dr ABCs" comes in useful by ensuring the cat is unconscious, watching for breaths and listening or feeling for a heartbeat. The more you practice checking your cat's vital signs, the more equipped you'll be to recognise and respond to an emergency.
To give your cat the best chance of survival, ideally, you should call a vet and follow instructions given over the phone. They may walk you through CPR and can offer specialist advice if any problems arise. If this isn't possible, you can attempt CPR on route to a clinic if you have someone else to drive you; or while waiting for veterinary care.
If an emergency happens and you're alone, it's recommended to skip CPR and rush your pet straight to the nearest vet clinic.
The PDSA and PetMB have some detailed step-by-step guidelines on performing CPR, including helpful illustrations. Due to the seriousness of the emergency and risks involved, it's advisable to learn CPR techniques at a veterinary first aid course before attempting them on your pet.
This is general advice and should not be used as a replacement for veterinary care:
PDSA: CPR for Cats and Kittens
PetMB: How to Perform CPR on a Cat
What’s in your feline first aid kit? Have you practiced taking those vital signs? Let us know if this article helped in the comments.
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