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Pet CPR

Pet CPR is only performed when a pet has no heartbeat and isn't breathing. It's a last-resort lifesaving skill that every pet owner should know — but hope to never use. Done correctly, CPR can keep blood and oxygen flowing until you reach emergency care.

🚨
EMERGENCY
Severity
🔍
4
Warning Signs
📋
8
Steps to Take
🐾
Dogs & Cats
Applies To
⚠️

Important Warning

CPR is only performed when there is no heartbeat. Do not perform on a breathing animal.

Signs & Symptoms to Watch For

No breathingNo heartbeat or pulseUnresponsivePale or blue gums

What To Do: Step-by-Step

1

Check for breathing and pulse (feel inside thigh for femoral artery)

2

If no pulse, lay pet on their right side on a firm surface

3

For dogs: place hands over the widest part of the chest. For cats/small dogs: wrap one hand around the chest.

4

Compress chest 1/3 to 1/2 of its width, 100-120 compressions per minute

5

After 30 compressions, give 2 rescue breaths (close mouth, breathe into nose)

6

Continue cycles of 30 compressions : 2 breaths

7

Check for pulse every 2 minutes

8

Transport to vet while continuing CPR if possible

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I perform CPR on my pet?▼
ONLY when there is no heartbeat AND your pet is not breathing. Check for femoral pulse (inside thigh) and rise/fall of chest. If breathing is present but weak, skip to rescue breathing only. CPR on a beating heart is dangerous.
How fast should I do chest compressions?▼
100-120 compressions per minute (about 2 per second, same as human CPR). Compress chest 1/3 to 1/2 of its width. For cats and small dogs, compress with one hand wrapped around chest.
How do I give rescue breaths to a pet?▼
Close their mouth, extend the neck, and seal your mouth around their nose (cover the whole nose). Give 2 breaths after every 30 compressions. You should see the chest rise. If it doesn't, reposition head and try again.
How effective is pet CPR?▼
Success rates for out-of-hospital CPR are low (5-10% survive to discharge), but CPR DOES save lives. It buys time to reach emergency care. Even if unsuccessful, you gave your pet a chance. CPR training is worthwhile.

🚨 Emergency Numbers — Save These Now

ASPCA Poison Control
(888) 426-4435
$95 consultation fee
Pet Poison Helpline
(855) 764-7661
$85 consultation fee

💡 Save your local emergency vet's number in your phone contacts NOW — you won't have time to search during an emergency.

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Medical Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only.

It is not a substitute for professional veterinary care. Always contact your veterinarian in an emergency.