Near drowning in cats refers to a situation where a cat comes close to drowning after being submerged in water for a dangerous amount of time. The final stage usually involves a cat losing consciousness.
In most cases, cats will require a period of hospitalization to help monitor the recovery process.
If your cat is showing symptoms after being in water, then you must get to a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and advice. Here’s what you should know about the symptoms, causes, and treatments for near drowning in cats.
Symptoms Of Near Drowning In Cats
Near drowning in cats can produce a range of symptoms. Some of the most common symptoms include:
- Skin and gums turning bluish
- Dilated pupils
- Breathing difficulties
- Coughing and vomiting
- Higher or lower than usual heart rate
- Shock
- Fluid coming up through the nose and mouth
Causes Of Near Drowning In Cats
The cause of near drowning in cats is often due to a negligent human, especially around bodies of water. Additionally, the following factors may place a cat at higher risk:
- Being very young or very old
- Being exhausted
- Certain medical conditions, including suffering from seizures or dementia
Veterinary Treatments
If you suspect that your cat has experienced a near drowning incident, your veterinarian will want to carry out a full physical examination. They’ll also conduct blood and urine tests. They’ll likely use a chest X-ray to detect any signs of your cat having developed pneumonia.
When it comes to treatment, vets commonly keep cats in the hospital to monitor their recovery. During this time, your vet may administer supplementary oxygen along with intravenous fluids.
If there are any signs of pneumonia or infection, your vet may prescribe a course of medication. As ever, if your vet prescribes your cat any medication, it is vital that you stick to the precise dosage and administration instructions and complete the entire course of medicine.
During the recovery process, you must provide your cat with a calm, quiet, and relaxing home environment.
Has your cat ever suffered from a near drowning incident? How did your vet help your cat recover? Let us know in the comments section below.
