Mary Allen
When cats are in shock, their lives can be in serious danger. It is all the more important that you recognize the symptoms and initiate first aid measures. Read here how you can help your pet in such a case.
Shock in cats can have different causes. Reasons can include an injury with high blood loss, a heart defect, or poisons. An accident is often the reason for a shock. First of all, it is important that they recognize the symptoms and react appropriately.
Shock: This Is How I Recognize the Symptoms in My Cat
It is important that you recognize the symptoms of shock quickly so that you can take appropriate action. The main symptoms include:
● Rapid, Shallow Breathing: When in shock, your cat’s breathing will be rapid and shallow. Observe the movements of the chest to check. You can also put your hand on the animal’s ribs.
● Pale mucous membranes: Pale, whitish-porcelain mucous membranes are also a sign of shock. Test blood flow by briefly pressing your finger against the cat’s gums. If the pale pink color does not return within two seconds, this indicates shock.
● Rapid pulse: The normal pulse is between 80 and 120 beats per minute, in young and very small or excited animals also higher. In the shock, the pulse wave feels weak, but at the same time, the pulse is racing. Check your pet’s pulse on the inner thigh. Your fingers should be on the inside and your thumb on the outside.
● Low Body Temperature: Your pet’s limbs will feel noticeably cold when in shock. Normally, the body temperature is between 38 degrees Celsius and 38.5 degrees Celsius. If it is 37 degrees Celsius or below, this can be a symptom of shock.
How Can I Provide First Aid For Shock?
A shock is life-threatening. After the initial measures, call your vet immediately so they are aware of the situation and are prepared for your arrival. You should take these first aid measures:
● Lie your cat on its right side. Try to slightly raise the back of the body.
● Extend your cat’s neck to allow the cat to breathe as freely as possible. Check to see if the airways are clear or obstructed in any way.
● Warm-up your four-legged friend with a warm blanket and/or a hot-water bottle so that he doesn’t get too cold.
● If your cat is bleeding profusely: stop the bleeding with sterile pads or a tight bandage.
● Go to a nearby veterinary practice or animal clinic as soon as possible.
Shock in Cats: These are Possible Causes
There are various causes that can lead to shock. Common shock types and causes include:
● Cardiovascular shock (cardiogenic shock). Possible reasons are heart failure, cardiac insufficiency, or cardiac arrhythmias.
● Volume depletion shock (hypovolaemic shock), is when your cat loses a lot of fluids or bleeds profusely, for example, due to severe vomiting or diarrhea.
● Anaphylactic shock: It is caused by strong allergic reactions.
● Septic shock: It occurs particularly in young animals when they are affected by severe bacterial infections.
● Metabolic disorders such as diabetes mellitus, thyroid dysfunction, or adrenal disorders.
●Poisoning from external toxins such as heavy metals or drugs, as well as internal poisoning such as urinary poisoning.