Symptom: Panting – Why is my pet panting?
Signs my pet is panting
Rapid shallow breath
Open mouth
Abnormal or excessive panting (may indicate a problem):
Panting at rest
Loud or laboured breathing
Panting with other symptoms such as lethargy, coughing, pale or blue gums
Changes in behaviour
Written by Dr. Mariella Roberts, Veterinary Surgeon, Animal Trust Vets CIC | Published October 2025 | Review date October 2028 | This advice is for UK pets only and is not a replacement for seeing a vet
Frequently asked questions
What are the common reasons for my pet to be panting?
- Cooling down, excitement, exercises, stress (normal panting)
- Heatstroke, pain, breathing issues, heart problems, obesity (abnormal or excessive panting)
Related reading: Protecting your cat from heatstroke
- Medication side effects
- Breed predisposition (short-nosed breed)
DOs - My pet is panting, what to do at home:
- Do provide water
- Do move to a cooler area
- Do calm your pet and comfort them
- Do observe and monitor
DON'Ts - My pet is panting, what not to do at home:
- Don't overexert your pet
- Don't give large amounts of water at once
- Don't leave your pet in a hot car or in areas that heat up quickly
- Don't ignore excessive panting
- Don't punish your pet for panting due to anxiety
When should I think about going to the vet if my pet is panting?
- Sudden onset and persistent panting
- Difficulty breathing
- Changes in gum colour
- Signs of heatstroke
- Panting with other symptoms