Have you ever taken your cat for a ride, glanced at them, and wondered, “Why is my cat panting in the car?” There could be multiple reasons for this, some of which could require urgent attention.
So, join me as I answer your question and suggest ways you can quell their unusual behavior.
Reasons Why Your Cat Pants In the Car
If you ever notice your cat panting while they’re in your car, you might start worrying about the potential medical issues it might indicate. However, it’s much more than that.
In this section, I’ll discuss the various reasons that could explain your feline’s excessive panting.
Anxiety
Like humans, animals can sometimes feel perturbed and anxious too. This agitation usually arises due to a big change they currently have to get accustomed to or a situation they don’t entirely understand.
This could be quite stressful for your cat, which causes it to start panting excessively in an attempt to alleviate its anxiety.
Medical Issues
This cause is a more alarming one, so pay close attention to it. Sometimes, panting for too long can mean that your cat is experiencing a medical issue, typically related to their cardiac or respiratory condition.
Cats can be affected by a range of medical conditions, including asthma, anemia, heartworm, or even pneumonia. So, make sure to keep an eye out for these issues!
Feeling Too Hot or Congested
The most conspicuous reason why a cat might start panting in the car is because of overheating and not getting enough oxygen.
Since cats are physically unable to sweat, they’ll try to cool themselves down and regulate their body temperature by panting.
Ways to Help Your Cat Calm Down
Making a cat feel safe and contented at all times is a consideration every cat owner must make throughout the lives of their four-legged felines.
Here are some ways you can effectively prevent and stop your cat from panting inexorably while you’re on the road.
Take a Brief Break
The first thing you can do is to make them feel better. Select a safe spot, park in it, and start calming your cat down. Reassure them that they’re in good hands.
Give them some time to catch their breath, and after they do, inform them that you’re going to resume the ride. Don’t forget to be gentle with them throughout the ride!
Ensure Your Cat Receives Proper Ventilation
A reason for your panting cat could be a paucity of ventilation in your car. Simply roll your windows down to let in some fresh air and allow them a moment of reprieve.
You can also carry along a cat carrier for your pet to sit in as you reach your destination. Since most cats are susceptible to quite a few respiratory issues, not having enough air to breathe could be a cause for concern. So beware of it!
Keep Your Cat Well-Fed & Entertained
Like children, cats have a short attention span. They can easily get bored by the monotony of being on the road for hours and hours until the end, which is why they feel the need to use eating as a coping mechanism.
So, give them as many toys and cat snacks as possible to keep hunger and boredom at bay. This is key to making sure that your cat isn’t overwhelmed by the tedium of the ride.
Keep Them Hydrated
You should also have a bottle of fresh cool water with you at all times. Keep yourself and your cat hydrated throughout the ride especially if you’re cruising under the scorching heat.
Phenomenal Methods to Lower Their Stress Levels
If you go to your local pet shop, you might come across a range of calming aids, including pheromone sprays and calming collars. These mimic the pheromones that cats naturally produce and encourage a safe, peaceful car ride.
Seek Immediate Veterinary Attention Immediately
Does your cat’s panting behavior persist? Is it accompanied by convulsions and drooling? If so, it’s likely they’re having a seizure.
Leave everything and contact your vet. Pro veterinarians have plenty of medical acumen and experience to evaluate your cat’s behavior and advise you on your next move.
If talking to your vet isn’t possible, visit them directly. Let them examine your cat’s situation and learn about any underlying problems your feline might have.
Keep Your Cat Calm & Help Them Enjoy The Car Ride
Hey, I get it. Seeing your cat pant in the car can be deeply distressing and disconcerting. But it’s up to us, as responsible cat owners, to be confident, optimistic, and approach the situation as confidently as possible.
So, make sure to put your foot down, treat your beloved feline’s condition with gentleness and understanding, and don’t stop caring for them. After all, a healthy cat is a happy one. Always remember that!
