Artificial respiration is an emergency procedure used to exchange air in an
unconscious cat who’s not breathing. Heart massage is used when no heartbeat
can be heard or felt. When heart massage is combined with artificial respiration,
it is called cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). When a cat stops breathing,
heart function soon also stops, and vice versa. It is therefore important
to know both aspects of CPR. CPR can be performed by one person, but it is
easier if two people are available. One does the breathing and the other does
the heart massage.
The following emergencies may require artificial respiration:
Coma
Electric shock
Head injury
Metabolic problems
Obstructed airway (choking)
Poisoning
Prolonged seizure
Shock
Sudden death
Trauma
Before you begin any emergency aid, you need to determine how much
help your cat needs and of what type. If your cat is awake and resists any of
this treatment, he does not need it.
