Help! My Kitten is Breathing Heavy! (Vet Answered)
This question has been answered by a vet
Veterinarian & Animal Behaviorist
With nearly two decades in veterinary medicine, Dr. Paola brings hands-on experience across multiple species. A graduate of the University of Guadalajara, she specializes in preventive care, animal welfare, and positive reinforcement training.
The Question
“Hi Dr. Paola,
I just got this kitten. She’s around 9 weeks old and her name is Blair. Recently, I’ve been noticing that she breathes quite quickly while sleeping. I’m extremely worried about her because I know the people who gave her to me didn’t handle the kittens very carefully. Her breaths are shallow and quick, and unfortunately, I’m unable to take her to the vet because of money issues.
I’d really appreciate your input on this issue because I’m so worried about her. I hope that it’s just stress due to a new environment, but I know it could be more serious. “ – Kimberly
Quick Info about Blair
Hi Kimberly,
Thank you for reaching out and for being such a thoughtful, attentive caregiver to Blair. It’s completely understandable to feel anxious when something doesn’t seem quite right, especially with a tiny kitten who’s just come into your life. You’ve already taken a loving and important step by watching her closely and seeking help.
Kittens do breathe more quickly than adult cats, especially while dreaming or in light sleep stages. However, it’s essential to know what’s within the normal range. A healthy, resting kitten should breathe about 20 to 30 breaths per minute. When they’re lightly sleeping or warm, this can go up a little, but it should not consistently exceed 40 breaths per minute when they’re relaxed and not playing. Breaths should be smooth, quiet, and closed-mouth, without flaring nostrils or exaggerated abdominal movement. If you’re seeing shallow, rapid breathing, especially if it’s over 50 breaths per minute while she’s asleep and calm, or if she seems lethargic, isn’t eating, or shows any nasal or eye discharge, these are important signs that she may be stressed or ill.
While I understand that a traditional vet visit may not be possible right now, I do want to mention that an online consultation with one of our vets at PangoVet may be a good option. On a video call, we can help guide you through correctly determining her respiratory rate and observing her breathing. This service is much more affordable than in-person visits and can help you determine if in-person care is needed and with what urgency.
Some veterinary schools or local shelters also offer low-cost veterinary assistance, and it may be worth checking if there are any programs like that in your area. In the meantime, make sure her environment is warm, quiet, and free of drafts. Try to check her breathing when she’s truly at rest, not right after play or excitement, and if possible, record a video of what you’re seeing in case you need to show it to a vet later.
You’re doing the right thing by seeking help early, and I hope little Blair starts breathing more comfortably soon.
Dr. Paola