Thu, Aug 20th 2009, 10:58 GMT

I have to say that, living in Cleveland, Ohio where the temperature has not been below 83 degrees for about a week now, I have noticed all six of my animals, 3 dogs and 3 cats, breathing very rapidly, especially in the afternoon when the temp reaches its peak. I always make sure they have plenty of fresh water and try to keep them in the air-conditioning as long as possible. I'm glad to hear they are doing OK. We know how much you love them. Kisses and hugs to them from all of us here at "The Zoo"!

ANSWERED BY

Izadore (Izzie)

Wed, Aug 19th 2009, 08:45 GMT

If they seem lethargic or as though they cannot breathe, they need to see a vet. Cats pant with their mouths open, like dogs, so it does sound like vet time. If it is very hot, you should leave fans on and even the air conditioning if at all possible. Cats overheat very quickly. Make sure they have lots of cool fresh water available. You might even put ice cubes in their water to keep it cool and make it more enticing. But again, if their mouths are closed, please take them to the vet. My Arthur was having problems breathing, and for about ten minutes I thought he was panting. Then I realized that his mouth was closed and he was reluctant to move. I took him to the vet and found he was bleeding internally, into his chest cavity. I lost him a few days later. Please err on the side of caution. Vet.

ANSWERED BY

*Arthur RIP Sweet Angel Baby*
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