How To Give a Cat the Heimlich Maneuver

Before doing the Heimlich maneuver on a cat, you must first confirm that they’re actively choking.  

Ann Hohenhaus, DVM, senior veterinarian and director of pet health information at the Schwarzman Animal Medical Center in New York, New York, says signs of a choking cat include: 

• Pawing at the mouth 
• Collapse 
• Drooling (because they are having trouble swallowing) 
• Blue color to their usually pink gums and lips (because the windpipe is blocked, and they’re losing oxygen)  
• Retching or gagging  
• Wheezing  

Once you’ve confirmed that your cat is choking and it’s clear your pet is not getting oxygen, Dr. Hohenhaus says to administer the Heimlich maneuver immediately.  

However, you should not attempt the Heimlich maneuver if your cat is breathing, vocalizing, or able to swallow, as this could cause injury or worsen the obstruction. 

Below are steps for giving a cat the Heimlich maneuver, but if you’re uncomfortable, go directly to the nearest veterinary office: 

1. Gently hold your cat upright against your chest and facing outward, letting their legs hang down.
2. Place your hands just under their ribcage and give three to five quick, upward thrusts toward their spine.
3. If they’re still choking, hold them by the hips with their head angled downward and give firm pats between their shoulder blades using an open palm.
4. Check their mouth to see if the object is visible and carefully remove it if possible. Your cat may become stressed and bite.

If your cat is still choking, administer the Heimlich maneuver until the item is dislodged. Then, follow this checklist provided by Sarah Cortright, DVM, veterinarian and chief medical director for the Underdog Community Project in Los Angeles:  

1. Check their breathing. Your cat may be stressed, but watch for a consistent chest movement. Listen for signs of labored breathing, wheezing, or coughing.  
2. Begin CPR if there’s no pulse: “If your pet doesn’t resume breathing or they collapse, begin CPR if you’re trained,” Dr. Cortright says.  
3. Head to the nearest veterinary clinic immediately and have someone call ahead to inform them of your arrival, so they’re prepared for you. Your pet will require a comprehensive assessment and may need ongoing monitoring in the coming days and weeks.  

Though choking is fortunately rare, it’s important to minimize all risks. Here’s how you can prevent a cat from choking:  

• Avoid toys and chews that are too small. “If it can fit fully in their mouth, it’s a choking hazard,” Dr. Cortright says. Stick to tried-and-true cat toys, like the Yeowww! Catnip Yellow Banana Cat Toy, KONG Snuzzles Mouse Cat Toy, and PawsPik Interactive Alien Laser Cat Toy. 

• Slow their chow down. “Feed fast eaters with a slow-feeder bowl or puzzle feeder to prevent gulping,” Dr. Cortright suggests. Try the Catstages Non-Skid Slow Feeder Cat Bowl. 

• Supervise them as needed. Keep an eye on your kitty during playtime and meals, especially if they tend to shred toys or items, or if they’re a fast eater.  
• Cat-proof your home. The best way to prevent cat choking is to remove all potential hazards from the environment. Keep any dangerous items out of reach by putting them behind doors or drawers your cat can’taccess. Small objects, like rubber bands, hair ties, buttons, and string, can be tempting but dangerous if swallowed.  

Do veterinarians recommend the Heimlich maneuver for cats at home? 

Yes, if your cat is actively choking and isn’t getting oxygen, giving them the Heimlich maneuver can save their life.  

Can performing the Heimlich maneuver hurt a cat? 

It’s possible but unlikely, and the alternative of potentially dying is much worse. Follow the steps for a Heimlich maneuver carefully to minimize the risk of injury.  

Is the Heimlich maneuver safe for kittens? 

If a kitten is actively choking, administer the Heimlich maneuver. Apply less pressure than you would to an adult cat and only use a couple of fingers to quickly press on the area just below the rib cage, rather than your fist for an adult cat. 

What’s the difference between CPR and the Heimlich maneuver for cats? 

CPR for cats is used only once the heart has stopped or they’re not breathing. It focuses on chest compressions and rescue breaths.  

The Heimlich maneuver is administered only when a cat is actively choking and can’t get enough oxygen. It uses abdominal thrusts to dislodge the blockage.