On Tue, 13 Jul 2004 12:54:47 -0500, wrote:

When running around or otherwise
active, she breathes about 60 - 70 times
per minute, sometimes even panting
briefly.

The average breaths per minute for a cat at rest is 20-30. 60-70, even
with activity, seems high and the cat panting so easily is worrisome.
These symptoms can be indicative of a heart condition. My cat Omar had
these symptoms and was diagnosed with Dilated Cardiomyopathy.
You should definitely take the kitten in for an exam and talk to your
vet about scheduling an echocardiogram to see if there is indeed a heart
condition. If caught early, and depending on the type of problem, it is
possible to treat with medication and have a good quality of life for
quite some time.

Megan



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I'd echo the heart disease caution. My brother's poor cat exhibited
those symptoms, and the vet found heart problems.

Also cats can breathe rapidly and shallowly when in pain or distress.

HOWEVER - balance this with some restraint .. it IS a kitten, and
perhaps it's just whipping itself into a frenzy. Nonetheless, a trip
to the Vet may be a very good idea. Better to catch something early
than have it become life-threatening (and far more expensive to treat)
later.

Brian Link, Minnesota Countertenor
----------------------------------
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they get all nervous and give the wrong answers."
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