CPR in dogs and cats: first aid
CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) is only performed if the animal isn't breathing and has no pulse or heartbeat. It is an emergency measure to buy minutes on the way to the vet; ideally you will have learned it on a hands-on course. This guide is a reference, not a substitute for training or veterinary care.
Before you start (check)
- Check for breathing (chest movement, air at the nose) and consciousness.
- Feel for a pulse/heartbeat with your hand on the chest behind the elbow or on the inner thigh.
- Open the mouth and remove any object or secretion blocking the airway.
- Lay the animal on its side on a firm surface.
Technique by size
| Size | How to compress |
|---|---|
| Cat and small dog | Wrap one hand around the chest (thumb one side, fingers the other) or use both; compress just behind the elbow |
| Medium/large dog | Hands interlocked over the widest part of the chest, arms straight, use your body weight |
| Very deep-chested dog | Compress directly over the highest point of the chest with the animal on its side |
In all cases: a rate of 100–120 compressions per minute, pressing the chest down by a third to a half of its width, and letting it fully expand between compressions.
Compressions and breaths step by step
- 30 chest compressions, firm and rhythmic, at 100–120 per minute.
- 2 rescue breaths: close the animal's mouth and breathe into the nose until you see the chest rise.
- Repeat cycles of 30 compressions + 2 breaths.
- Every 2 minutes, briefly check for breathing or a pulse.
- Continue while transporting it and until it breathes on its own or the vet takes over.
Mistakes to avoid
- Doing CPR on an animal that is breathing or has a pulse.
- Compressions too slow or too shallow (they don't pump blood).
- Not letting the chest re-expand between compressions.
- Wasting time: start heading to the vet from the very first moment.
What the vet will do
At the clinic they have oxygen, resuscitation drugs, monitoring and a defibrillator if needed. That is why home CPR is only a bridge: its aim is to keep some circulation and oxygen going until you reach professional hands as soon as possible.
Frequently asked questions
When should I do CPR?
Only if the animal isn't breathing and has no pulse/heartbeat. If it is breathing or has a pulse, do NOT do compressions; keep it stable and go to the vet.
Can I hurt it?
Compressions can cause some injury, but in a true cardiac arrest it is the only option. Even so, always get to the vet as soon as possible.
What rate should the compressions be?
Between 100 and 120 per minute, pressing the chest down by a third to a half of its width and letting it fully re-expand between each one.
How many breaths per compressions?
2 breaths for every 30 compressions. Breathe into the nose with the mouth closed until you see the chest rise.
Is it the same for cats and dogs?
The principle is the same; the hand technique changes with size. In cats and small dogs you wrap the hand around the chest; in large ones, hands interlocked over the chest.
Where can I learn to do it properly?
On pet first-aid courses run by clinics and organisations. Practising with a professional is the best way to be prepared.
This is first-aid guidance only and does not replace a vet's diagnosis. In any emergency, contact a professional.
