Ask a PetDoc: Cat has difficulty breathing

Written by Jonathan Baker

Question: Cat has difficulty breathing

Dr. Jim,

My cat is 10 years and he is breathing so heavily that you can hear him. He seems to have some difficulty breathing. He is not eating or drinking now, and when you pick him up he seems to be in pain. What can he have?

Thanks, Nunzio

Dr. Jim says:

Nunzio,

Rapid shallow breathing, elevated temperature and chest pain are indicative of pleurisy/pneumonia. Pleurisy (a purulent exudate in the pleural cavity, the area around the lungs) is the probable cause of the pain and pneumonia is also probably present causing the pleurisy. Pleurisy is an inflammation/infection of the sac around the lungs creating friction and thus resulting in pain. Antibiotics is the usual treatment.

Dr. James Sokolowski, DVM, PhD is a veterinarian with 40 years in the pet industry. He has appeared extensively on radio and TV including CNN, Fox, ABC and other national and local radio and TV programs. Dr. Sokolowski is a recipent of veterinary professional awards for his contributions to the veterinary profession. Read his full bio here.

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