Cat Open Mouth Breathing & Lack of Appetite: Possible C

1. Cats Overheating

Cats have a weak ability to regulate their body temperature, making them susceptible to both cold and heat. During the summer months, if the indoor temperature is too high or if owners take their cats outdoors when the outdoor temperature is excessively warm, it can lead to heatstroke in felines. The symptoms of heatstroke in cats typically include a lack of energy, decreased appetite, dry nose, and panting heavily with their mouths open.

Therefore, if you notice your cat breathing through its mouth and showing no interest in eating during a particularly hot spell, it's crucial to monitor the indoor temperature. Try to maintain it around 25 degrees Celsius. Ensure your cat stays hydrated and provide them with pet electrolytes to replenish their energy. However, avoid exposing your cat to sudden cold drafts from air conditioning, as this can cause them to catch a cold or develop respiratory issues.

2. Respiratory Diseases

A cat's lack of appetite and mouth breathing could also be indicative of respiratory conditions. Pay attention to whether your cat is sneezing or has excessive eye discharge. If these symptoms are present, it's essential to consider a feline herpesvirus infection as a primary suspect.

Less obvious symptoms might be due to conditions like asthma, pneumonia, or pulmonary edema. While these conditions may not be as acute as feline herpes, they can be more challenging to treat. It's advisable to take your cat to a veterinarian promptly for a thorough examination.

3. Heart Conditions

Diseases like dilated cardiomyopathy and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy are common in cats. Younger cats may also be prone to congenital heart conditions. A common symptom of heart conditions is circulatory problems, which can lead to pulmonary edema and pleural effusion, causing difficulty breathing and the characteristic openmouth breathing in cats.

If your cat is showing signs of fatigue, frequently lying down, becoming exhausted after play, or experiencing shortness of breath, it's important to have them examined by a veterinarian for potential heart issues.

4. Oral Health Issues

Oral diseases, such as ulcers and gingivitis, are common culprits behind a lack of appetite and mouth breathing in cats. Pain from these conditions can prevent cats from closing their mouths properly, resulting in drooling, pain during eating, and eventually, a loss of appetite.

In such cases, it's essential to take your cat to a veterinary clinic for treatment with antibiotics and oral sprays. If your cat is unable to eat, intravenous fluids can provide necessary nutrients. If a vet visit isn't immediate, you can use metronidazole tablets and Listerine spray for temporary relief. Maintaining your cat's oral hygiene is crucial; make sure to brush their teeth daily or use pet mouthwash to keep their teeth clean.

The reasons behind a cat's openmouth breathing and loss of appetite are multifaceted, with the above conditions representing only a few common possibilities. If you're unsure about your cat's condition, it's best to consult a veterinarian or an online pet doctor without delay.