My indoor/outdoor cat suddenly sounds like Darth Vader!

I have a neutered male indoor/outdoor cat (named Koopa) that has developed loud breathing within the last 2-3 days. He has always had a flat nose but never sounded like this. He seems to be normal otherwise...he's eating and drinking and doesn't seem to be overly tired just breathes loud and wheezy. This is a stray that I've tamed but I'm not sure if I can get him in a carrier to take him to the vet since he was neutered via a TNR program. I love him very much and have become VERY attached...any advice would help...thank you!

Hi! Welcome to the forums   Koopa is a cutie!

I wish I had something else to tell you, but unfortunately, loud breathing is a bad sign in cats, and does merit a vet visit, especially if it goes on for more than 24 hours. Some 'snoring' can be normal, but continual, abnormal loud breathing is not.  I could give you a lost of things it could mean, but the truth is that only a vet can tell you what is wrong with Koopa.

Fortunately, we have many members experienced in getting unwilling cats into carriers.  As a last resort, heavy duty gloves seem to work well.  

I hope you will be able to get him to the vet soon.  Hopefully it will be nothing and the vet can set your mind at ease.

It's hard to say what could be causing it, I do know that my boy Munchie has an upper respiratory infection and he is breathing very congested like with loud noises.  But other things can cause that as well.  I would recommend a vet visit to find out what's going on with your kitty.

Since today is thanksgiving and our vet is closed I'm going to call tomorrow for an appt...thanks for the advice and wish me luck

msm0803 said:

Since today is thanksgiving and our vet is closed I'm going to call tomorrow for an appt...thanks for the advice and wish me luck

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I am very glad you are able to take him in! Please let us know how it goes!!!

We have an appointment at our vet shortly :-/ I'm extremely nervous but i know it's in Koopa's best interest I'll post later!

The worst thing that could have happened - did. He got so stressed out from being in the carrier and put in the car that he hyperventilated and never caught his breath again. He's in a better place now... RIP Koopa thanks for all your advice...I think he was sicker than we realized and everything happens for a reason. I held him til he stopped breathing which was comforting...god bless!!!

I'm so sorry! RIP Koopa and many warm thoughts your way.

I am SO sorry and heartbroken for you.  

It really stinks but I guess everything happens for a reason.

I am so sorry for your loss.

We are so very sorry for your loss.

We will close this thread now. 

You may like to leave a tribute to Koopa at the Crossing the Bridge thread: http://www.thecatsite.com/f/19/crossing-the-bridge