How To Treat A Cat In Shock At Home
Introduction
Cats can suffer from shock just like we do, but they’re smaller and more fragile. That makes shock extra dangerous for cats, making it imperative that you get familiar with the signs of shock in your kitty and know how to treat him should he ever run into shock. Luckily, treating a cat in shock at home is relatively easy, and knowing how to identify when your cat’s in shock can greatly increase his chances of survival.
Do a mental assessment of the cat’s condition.
If you have a cat that’s in shock, the first thing you need to do is assess its condition. Shock is when blood flow is restricted or stopped as a result of any injury, disease or fluid loss. While some cats may be shocked by the slightest bump on the head, others may suffer severe trauma such as fractures and internal injuries. Your vet will be able to diagnose your cat’s condition based on their symptoms and physical examination alone, but there are some basic signs that they may exhibit:
- Weakness
- Pale gums
- A weak pulse
- Low body temperature
Keep the cat warm and quiet.
Although it’s tempting to give your cat something warm to drink, don’t. It won’t help with shock and could make things worse. In addition, don’t give them any food or water because they might choke on it if they’re dehydrated, which can lead to more problems.
When you’re ready, move your cat out of the cold and into a warm room where he will feel safe for a little while. You can also wrap him in a blanket or towel for extra warmth until his body temperature comes back up naturally—but remember not to move him too much!
Consider giving your kitty oxygen.
You can give your cat oxygen at home if you think it might help, but you should only do so if your vet has instructed you to do so. If the vet does not give you specific instructions on how to use an oxygen mask and tubing, call them again before attempting to provide oxygen for your kitty.
The process is simple: Place a mask over your cat’s nose and mouth, then squeeze the bag until you see bubbles coming out of the tube (which will be inserted into their nostril). The flow of air should last about 30 seconds or less; if it continues longer than that, stop pumping and check back in with your vet.
Get your cat to the vet ASAP.
The first thing to do if you suspect that your cat is suffering from shock is to get her to the vet as soon as possible. If you have a car, take the cat in that; otherwise, take her in a carrier or box that can be safely and securely transported in another vehicle.
If your veterinarian is not open yet and cannot see your cat immediately, go to an emergency clinic or animal hospital for help. Do not wait for hours on end; it could mean death for your cat if left unattended for too long. While waiting at the clinic or hospital before seeing a veterinarian, make sure to monitor all vital signs including temperature, pulse rate (or heart rate), respiration rate (breaths per minute) and blood pressure (if available).
Home treatment of shock in a cat is limited, but it’s still something you should do while you’re on your way to the vet.
Although home treatment of shock in a cat is limited, you should still do it while you’re on your way to the vet. Keep the cat warm by using towels or blankets. Keep quiet, as this will help keep your cat calm and comfortable. You can also consider giving your cat oxygen if he or she has stopped breathing well or is coughing excessively due to lack of oxygenation (lack of breathing). If these symptoms persist for more than 10 minutes after applying pressure to the wound site and/or applying heat, contact an emergency veterinarian immediately.
Conclusion
If you come across a cat that you think may be in shock, call your vet as soon as possible. Keep the cat warm and quiet while you transport them to their appointment; if the vet says it’s okay, you can even consider administering oxygen therapy. Do not attempt to treat shock at home.