We Can Help Cats and Dogs With...

Panting

Hi there! We’re sorry your pet isn’t feeling like themselves, but we’re here to help. Panting in cats and dogs dogs is common, but it can also be confusing or even concerning. Is your pet just warm, or is there something more serious going on? Here's how to evaluate panting and decide if it’s time for an urgent care visit.

What’s going on with your pet?

What Is Considered Abnormal Panting?

Panting is normal for dogs under certain conditions, such as after exercise or on hot days. Cats may pant occasionally when stressed or overheated, but frequent or prolonged panting in cats should always be taken seriously. When you notice heavy panting that lasts longer than expected, happens at rest, or includes signs of distress, it could be abnormal panting and a reason to seek veterinary advice.

Ask yourself:

- Is your pet panting more than usual, or at times when they’re usually calm?

- Can you stop them from panting by changing their environment or distracting them?

- Is the panting loud, wheezy, whistling, or accompanied by other changes?

If your pet's panting is excessive or doesn't go away, especially if paired with other symptoms, don’t wait. Scout is here for you.

What Can You Do at Home for Panting?

First, assess the environment. Is your home warm? Is your pet anxious? Try taking them to a cooler room or gently offering some water. For dogs, a short walk or time outside may help distract and relax them. You can also try dipping their feet in cool (not ice-cold) water to help bring down body temperature if they seem overheated.

If your pet stops panting when soothed or removed from the situation, that’s a good sign. But if the panting continues, worsens, or happens at odd times (like nighttime panting while resting), a medical evaluation may be necessary.

Does Your Pet Need Urgent Care for Panting?

Panting in cats and dogs isn’t always a cause for concern, but it can be. You know your pet best, and if something doesn’t feel right, it’s always okay to seek help. Excessive panting that comes on suddenly or continues for long periods can signal several issues, including pain or discomfort, especially if your pet is also hiding, limping, or behaving differently. Heat exhaustion or heatstroke can be dangerous if heavy panting during warm weather or after exercise doesn’t stop quickly. Respiratory conditions may be to blame if panting is accompanied by wheezing, noisy breathing, or difficulty breathing, and cardiac issues can cause panting along with coughing, fainting, or lethargy. Anxiety or stress, such as during car rides or at night, can also trigger panting, as can fever or infection, which may be one of the first visible signs of an internal problem. In some cases, panting can progress to severe breathing difficulty. If you notice open-mouth breathing in cats, blue or purple gums, or rapid, shallow breaths, seek veterinary care immediately.

Why Choose Scout Veterinary Urgent Care?

You know your pet better than anyone, and if you’re worried about excessive panting, nighttime panting, or breathing difficulty, you deserve answers—and fast. At Scout Veterinary Urgent Care, we offer expert, compassionate care for everything from mild anxiety to serious respiratory issues.

Whether you're seeing panting after a walk or unusual panting in cats at home, our team can help. We're open seven days a week with convenient hours that work around your schedule. Whether you're in Lincoln Park, West Loop, or our new Old Orchard clinic, urgent care for pets has never been more accessible.

Our experienced team listens to your concerns, thoroughly examines your pet, and walks you through next steps so you never feel rushed or uncertain. If your dog is panting heavily or acting off, or if you're unsure what's normal, we’re here to give you peace of mind.

Don’t wait it out. Schedule your visit online or give us a call. We’re here when your pet needs us.