Cat Open Mouth Breathing

Cats are fascinating creatures with a range of behaviors that can sometimes puzzle their owners. One such behavior is open mouth breathing, which can be alarming if it seems out of the ordinary. Understanding why cats breathe with their mouths open, the implications of this behavior, and what actions to take can help ensure your feline friend stays healthy and comfortable.

Why Is My Cat Breathing With His Mouth Open?

Open mouth breathing in cats can be a sign of several different conditions, ranging from benign to serious. Here are some of the potential reasons:

1. Heat Stroke

Cats can suffer from heat stroke if they are exposed to high temperatures for too long. Unlike humans, cats don't sweat through their skin. Instead, they sweat through their paw pads and cool themselves by grooming and licking their fur. In extreme heat, these mechanisms might not be sufficient, and a cat may start panting with its mouth open to try to cool down. Heat stroke is a medical emergency, and if you suspect your cat is suffering from it, you should seek veterinary care immediately.
Related: How Hot Is Too Hot for Cats

2. Respiratory Infections

Upper respiratory infections (URIs) are common in cats, particularly in those that come from shelters or have been in contact with other cats. Symptoms of a URI include sneezing, nasal discharge, and difficulty breathing. Severe cases can lead to a cat breathing through its mouth if its nasal passages are blocked.

3. Asthma

Feline asthma is another condition that can cause open-mouth breathing. Asthma in cats is similar to asthma in humans and is triggered by allergens that cause the airways to constrict. This can result in coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. During an asthma attack, a cat may breathe with its mouth open in an effort to get more air.

4. Heart Disease

Heart disease can also manifest as open-mouth breathing in cats. Conditions such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) can lead to congestive heart failure, where fluid accumulates in the lungs or chest cavity, making it hard for the cat to breathe. Mouth breathing can be a sign of severe distress in these cases.

5. Trauma or Pain

Cats that have suffered trauma, such as a fall or being hit by a car, may breathe with their mouths open due to pain or injury. Internal injuries, fractures, or other trauma can cause shock and respiratory distress, leading to open mouth breathing.

6. Obstruction or Foreign Body

If a cat has something lodged in its throat or airways, it may start breathing with its mouth open. This is an emergency situation as the obstruction can quickly lead to severe breathing difficulties or suffocation.

7. Stress and Anxiety

Cats can also exhibit open mouth breathing when they are extremely stressed or anxious. Situations such as traveling, visiting the vet, or encountering a new environment or animal can cause significant stress, leading to rapid and open mouth breathing.

Why Do Cats Open Their Mouth When They Smell?

Cats have a highly developed sense of smell, which they use to interact with their environment. One intriguing behavior related to this is the Flehmen response. When a cat smells something particularly interesting or unfamiliar, it may open its mouth and curl back its lips, appearing almost as if it is grimacing. This behavior helps the cat draw scent particles into the Jacobson’s organ (also called the vomeronasal organ), located on the roof of the mouth. This organ allows cats to analyze complex scents more effectively than through the nose alone.

The Flehmen Response

The Flehmen response is especially common when a cat encounters scents associated with other animals, such as pheromones or urine. It's a normal behavior and not a cause for concern. It allows cats to gather more information about their environment and other animals within it.

Is Mouth Breathing Bad for Cats?

Mouth breathing is generally not a normal behavior for cats and often indicates that something is wrong. Here are some reasons why mouth breathing can be concerning:

1. Indicator of Respiratory Distress

Unlike dogs, cats do not pant to cool down unless they are extremely overheated. Therefore, if a cat is breathing with its mouth open, it usually indicates respiratory distress. This can be due to a range of issues, such as infections, asthma, or heart disease.

2. Potential for Serious Conditions

Mouth breathing can be a symptom of serious underlying conditions. For example, heart disease or severe respiratory infections can both be life-threatening if not treated promptly. Identifying and addressing the cause of mouth breathing early can improve the chances of successful treatment.

3. Increased Risk of Dehydration and Secondary Infections

Cats that breathe through their mouths can become dehydrated more quickly because they lose moisture faster. Additionally, if the underlying cause is a respiratory infection, the open mouth breathing can exacerbate the condition and make it easier for secondary infections to set in.

4. Stress and Discomfort

Breathing through the mouth is not comfortable for cats and can be very stressful. Chronic stress can have a detrimental effect on a cat’s overall health, weakening its immune system and making it more susceptible to illness.

What to Do if Your Cat Is Breathing with Its Mouth Open

If you notice your cat breathing with its mouth open, it is important to observe any additional symptoms and seek veterinary care as needed. Here are steps you can take:

1. Observe and Record Symptoms

Take note of any other symptoms your cat is experiencing, such as coughing, wheezing, nasal discharge, lethargy, or changes in appetite and behavior. This information can be very useful to your veterinarian.

2. Check the Environment

Ensure that your cat is in a cool, well-ventilated area, especially if heat stroke is a concern. Provide fresh water and keep the cat calm and quiet.

3. Seek Veterinary Care

Always consult a veterinarian if your cat is breathing with its mouth open. Even if it seems like a minor issue, it is better to be safe and have a professional assess the situation. The vet will perform a physical examination and may recommend diagnostic tests such as x-rays, blood tests, or an echocardiogram to determine the cause.

4. Follow Treatment Plans

If your vet prescribes treatment, follow their instructions carefully. This may include medications for infections, asthma inhalers, or other interventions based on the diagnosis. Regular follow-up appointments may be necessary to monitor your cat’s condition.

5. Monitor Ongoing Health

Keep an eye on your cat’s health and watch for any recurring or new symptoms. Maintaining a stress-free environment and ensuring your cat has a healthy diet and regular veterinary check-ups can help prevent many health issues.

Conclusion

Open-mouth breathing in cats is a behavior that should never be ignored. It can be a sign of a variety of health issues, some of which require immediate veterinary attention. Understanding the potential causes, from heat stroke and respiratory infections to heart disease and stress, is essential for providing the appropriate care. Additionally, recognizing the normal Flehmen response can help differentiate between a benign behavior and a symptom of distress. Ensuring your cat receives timely veterinary care, proper treatment, and ongoing health monitoring can significantly improve its quality of life and longevity.