How to Measure a Cat's Vital Signs
- Rachel
- 7 days ago
- 4 min read
In this article:
What Are Vital Signs and Why Are They Important?
Vital signs measure the body's basic functions, just like a human might experience in a hospital or doctor's office. This usually involves measuring the patient's body temperature, heart rate, respiration rate and blood pressure. Since cats are experts at hiding illness or pain, knowing their vital signs can help to detect any problems that you might want to discuss with your vet.
The easiest way to monitor your cat's health is by measuring their body temperature, heart rate and respiratory rate. Taking a cat's blood pressure uses specialised equipment such as an inflatable cuff and monitor. While it's possible to do this at home, it's not recommended without proper training.
The methods discussed are simple and non-invasive, based on observation and touch (adult cats only). Results 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.
How to Measure a Cat's Vital Signs
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 without training at the risk of causing harm or discomfort to such a sensitive area. 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 sign 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.
Practicing taking your cat's vital signs is a good way of getting cats used to being handled in preparation for a vet visit or health check-up. They'll be used to having more sensitive areas of their body touched such as the ears, legs and belly. It can also promote bonding and, with any luck, kitty will be none the wiser to your examination and just think it's being petted!
If measurements seem abnormal, such as a little higher or lower than those mentioned, don't worry too much as all cats are different. Even if vital signs are within the normal or average ranges, it doesn't mean cats won't have other health conditions. Always consult with a veterinarian about the health status of your cat.
*This is general information only and should not be used to replace medical advice.
Have you practiced taking your cat's vital signs? Did any of these tips help? Let us know in the comments.
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