How to Perform CPR on a Cat
It is important to know how to perform CPR on your cat in case of an emergency. While the steps are similar to those for performing CPR on a human, there are some key differences that you need to be aware of. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to properly perform CPR on your cat.
1. The first step is to assess the situation and make sure that it is safe for you to approach the cat. If the cat is in water, for example, do not attempt CPR unless you are absolutely certain that you can do so without putting yourself in danger.
2. Once you have determined that it is safe to approach the cat, gently lay them on their right side on a flat surface. You want their head and neck to be level with their back so that their airway is unobstructed.
3. Take a quick look inside the cat's mouth and remove any foreign objects or debris that might be present. Be careful not to push anything further down their throat in the process.
4. Next, place your hands behind the cat's elbows and lift their front legs up so that they are pointing towards their head (this will help open up the chest cavity). Place your other hand underneath their back end and lift gently until they are in a hugging position with their chin tucked down towards their chest (again, this helps open up the chest cavity).
5. With both hands now free, locate the point where the animal's ribs come together near its heart (you should feel a depression here). Place your thumb on one side of this point and your first two fingers on the other side (your fingers should not actually touch each other). For small animals like cats, only compress about 1/2 - 1 inch deep; for larger animals like dogs, compress about 1 - 2 inches deep. Repeat this compression at a rate of approximately 100 - 120 times per minute until professional help arrives or the animal revives itself.. Continue rescue breathing while waiting for professional help if possible