Cats that keep opening their mouths and panting in the car may be caused by hypoxia, heat stroke or stress reaction. First of all, if the owner closes the car windows or puts the cat in a cat bag, this closed environment may cause the cat to lack oxygen and open its mouth to gasp. Secondly, if the temperature inside the car is too high, the cat will open its mouth and breathe heavily to dissipate heat when it suffers from heatstroke. Finally, because cats are timid, they are prone to stress reactions such as emotional stress when riding in a car. Therefore, for the health of the cat, the owner should take the cat for a physical check before riding in the car to see if the cat is suitable for riding in the car.
1. Hypoxia
If the cat is in a closed environment when riding in a car, such as with the car windows closed or in a cat bag, etc., it may cause the cat to be hypoxic and keep its mouth open. pant. In this regard, the owner can open a small gap in the car window for ventilation, but do not open the window too wide to prevent the cat from catching a cold.
2. Heatstroke
Since cats’ sweat glands are underdeveloped, when the temperature in the car is too high, it may cause heatstroke. The cat will open its mouth to pant to dissipate heat, and may also be accompanied by Symptoms include elevated body temperature, rapid heartbeat, and weakness in limbs. If this is the case, it is recommended that the owner quickly turn on the air conditioner, or take the cat to a cool and ventilated place to dissipate heat, lower the temperature, and provide appropriate drinking water.
3. Stress reaction
Because cats are timid, they are prone to stress reactions when riding in cars, leading to mouth breathing and frequent licking. Symptoms such as hair loss, salivation, and vomiting. If this is the case, it is recommended that the owner park the car in a safe place first and let the cat rest for a while. If parking is inconvenient, the owner can also use some toys or snacks to divert the cat's attention.
Note: It is recommended that the owner should try to reduce the bumps and noises produced when riding in the car. When the car is driving relatively smoothly, the cat’s reaction will be much better. In addition, cats should be fasted in advance before riding in the car to avoid vomiting symptoms during the ride.
