I was not at all concerned about my MC panting after playing on hot days, but after reading the Q&A's already posted on this issue, I started to worry a little. Most of the responses said it was normal, but two noted there could be a heart or lung problem. I am wondering if anyone has any more specific info on what is normal/abnormal panting for a MC? What are the warning signs, if any for panting?

-- Anonymous, July 22, 1999

Answers

If the cats pants after hot days that is probably because he is having heat stroke. That is very common but I would not keep him outstide long.

-- Anonymous, July 26, 1999

My maine coon panted when he got excited - as in being put in his carrier or taking a ride in a car. He died a few days ago of "restrictive cardio myopothy." He was only two years old. The vet told me that panting was an indication of a possible heart condition. Maybe you should have yours checked out.

-- Anonymous, July 28, 1999

I, too, had a panting MC and was very concerned about him. I ended up taking him to a specialist who did an ultrasound of his heart to check for cardiomiopathy; luckily he does not have it. The specialist also told me that if he became very tired or stopped eating, then to worry. Otherwise, if he pants while playing, just settle him down some. I wouldn't really worry unless he seems very tired. From what I'm reading, there's quite a few "panters" out there. Mine is only 10 months old and weighs 18lbs. He is just a big boy and his lungs probably need to get used to his gigantic size! Just mention it to your vet the next time you go to put your mind at ease.

-- Anonymous, July 29, 1999

Our cat, Rascal, was having difficulty breathing for a few weeks. We took him to our Cat Clinic where they did an X-Ray and chest tap. The reason for his shallow breathing was a disease called Chylothorax. This is where the thoracic ducts around the chest cavity develop leaks and drain into the chest cavity, compressing the lungs and making it difficult to breathe. Get your kitty checked out immediately! The Doctor said this is more common in pure breed cats. This disease can be treated but no cure exists currently.

-- Anonymous, August 05, 1999