Cat First Aid

If a cat is injured, it will instinctively try to run away and hide, so when a cat suffers an injury, it is important to block any escape routes immediately so that you can perform first aid.

The cat may bite, so approach it slowly and calmly and, if a towel or similar object is available, place it over the cat’s head. (If you are bitten by a strange cat, and you live in a location where cats may have rabies, make sure that the cat has been vaccinated for rabies. If you cannot verify that the cat has received a rabies vaccine, you will have to be inoculated against rabies.

Check if the cat is breathing.

If it is not breathing, it may have an airway obstruction. You can check if anything is blocking the airway by pulling the tongue forward and peering down the throat.

A sharp tap on the chest may remove the obstruction.

If the cat has stopped breathing, you can perform artificial respiration. If its heart has stopped, you may be able to perform cardiopulmary respiration (CPR), massaging the heart to restore a heartbeat while you perform artificial respiration.

You should have someone who is experienced with these techniques show you how to perform them.

If a cat has broken a limb, the injured area if you can,  and then cover it with a clean dressing before taking the cat to the vet. Keep the

You can use a temporary dressing on a wound.

Always check for signs of shock, which may occur even when there is no obvious sign of injury.  Signs of shock include cool skin and legs, rapid breathing, weak, rapid pulse and pale gums. An animal that is in shock should be kept warm.

Once you have administered first aid, the cat should be taken to the vet as soon as possible.

When transporting the cat, be careful that you do not twist its spine, in case the spine has been injured.

In some locations, there are pet ambulances that will provide first aid and quickly transport a cat to a vet or a veterinary hospital.

If a service like this exists near you, keep its phone number handy.