As pet owners, we do everything we can to keep our furry companions safe, happy, and healthy. But accidents happen, and in those rare moments when something goes wrong, knowing a few basic first aid skills can make all the difference. Learning pet CPR and understanding how to handle emergencies isn’t about expecting the worst – it's about being prepared, confident, and ready to help while you get your pet to a vet.
This guide walks you through what pet CPR is, how to recognise emergencies, and why pet first aid knowledge is such a valuable skill for dog and cat owners across the UK.
What pet CPR is and when it might be needed
Pet CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) is an emergency technique used when a dog or cat has stopped breathing or their heart has stopped beating. Much like human CPR, the goal is to keep oxygen moving to vital organs, especially the brain, until professional veterinary help is available.
Situations where CPR might be needed include:
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Choking
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Severe allergic reactions
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Trauma, such as being hit by a car
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Near-drowning
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Heatstroke
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Poisoning
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Electrical shock
It’s important to remember that CPR should only be attempted when the animal is unresponsive and not breathing. Performing CPR on a conscious or breathing pet can be dangerous. And even when CPR is done correctly, it isn’t always successful, but it can give your pet a fighting chance.
The basic steps for performing CPR on dogs and cats
Every pet owner should consider taking a formal course to practise these skills hands-on, but knowing the basic steps can help you stay calm while seeking urgent veterinary care. Here’s a simplified overview:
1. Check for breathing and responsiveness
Gently call your pet’s name and touch their side or paw. Look for the rise and fall of the chest. Place your ear near their nose and mouth to feel for breath. Check for a pulse by placing two fingers on the inside of the hind leg, where the leg meets the body.
2. Open the airway
If your pet is unresponsive and not breathing, carefully extend their neck and open their mouth. Check for visible obstructions such as food or toys. If you see something you can safely remove, do so gently.
3. Give rescue breaths
Close the mouth and place your mouth over the nose of a dog, or over both the nose and mouth of a cat or small dog. Give gentle breaths – just enough to see the chest rise.
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For medium to large dogs: one breath every 2–3 seconds.
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For cats and small dogs: shorter, gentler breaths.
4. Begin chest compressions
The technique varies slightly by size and breed:
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Medium to large dogs: Lay the dog on their side and compress the widest part of the chest.
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Deep-chested dogs (like greyhounds): Compress directly over the heart.
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Small dogs and cats: Use one hand to gently compress the chest from both sides, or use your thumb and fingers around the ribcage.
Aim for 100–120 compressions per minute, allowing the chest to fully rise between compressions.
5. Combine compressions with breaths
A common rhythm is 30 compressions followed by 2 breaths. Continue until your pet is breathing again or until you reach a vet.
6. Get veterinary help immediately
Even if your pet seems to recover, a vet must examine them as soon as possible. Internal injuries or complications may not be immediately visible.
Signs of an emergency
Emergencies aren’t always dramatic. Sometimes the warning signs are subtle, especially with cats who tend to hide discomfort. If you notice any of the symptoms below, contact a vet right away:
Difficulty breathing - Open-mouth breathing in cats, rapid breathing, wheezing or coughing.
Collapse or fainting - A sudden loss of balance or consciousness is always serious.
Severe bleeding - Bleeding that doesn’t stop within a few minutes requires urgent care.
Seizures - Even a short seizure warrants immediate veterinary attention.
Pale, blue, or grey gums - A clear indicator of poor oxygenation.
Persistent vomiting or diarrhoea - Especially if it contains blood or happens repeatedly.
Trauma or suspected poisoning - Always err on the side of caution.
Extreme heat exposure - Panting, drooling, collapse, or vomiting in hot weather can mean heatstroke.
Remember: when in doubt, it’s always best to call your vet for advice.
What to include in a pet first aid kit
You don’t need anything fancy to create a practical pet first aid kit. Most items can be found in local pharmacies or pet shops, and keeping them together in a travel bag means you can take them on walks, holidays, or camping trips.
Here’s what a well-stocked kit should include:
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Gauze pads and bandages
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Adhesive tape or vet wrap
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Antiseptic wipes or saline solution
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Tweezers and blunt-ended scissors
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Disposable gloves
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A digital thermometer
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A blanket or towel (can be used for warmth or as a stretcher)
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Tick remover tool
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Styptic powder (for minor nail bleeding)
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Hydrogen peroxide (only if advised by a vet for specific cases)
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Muzzle or soft cloth (even the gentlest pets may bite when scared)
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Your vet’s phone number and nearest emergency clinic details
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Any essential medications your pet regularly needs
If you use nutritional supplements as part of your dog’s daily routine, it’s helpful to keep a small portion in your travel bag too – consistency can be calming during stressful situations.
Why UK pet owners should consider learning pet CPR or taking a first aid course
While guides like this are useful, nothing compares to practising skills in person with a trained instructor. In the UK, more and more pet owners are turning to short courses to help them feel prepared.
Here’s why it’s worth considering:
1. Emergencies happen more often than we think
Road accidents, choking incidents, and heat-related emergencies are sadly not uncommon, especially during UK summers when temperatures can rise unexpectedly.
2. Knowing what to do reduces panic
Training gives you the confidence to act quickly and calmly. Pets pick up on our emotions, so staying steady helps them too.
3. It buys precious time before reaching a vet
Even if you live close to a veterinary clinic, your actions in those first few minutes can be crucial.
4. It helps you spot problems earlier
Once you’re familiar with signs of distress, you’ll notice changes in behaviour or breathing much more quickly.
5. Courses are affordable and widely available
Many animal charities, pet charities, and private trainers across the UK offer half-day or one-day workshops.
Feeling prepared brings peace of mind
Learning pet CPR and basic first aid isn’t about becoming a veterinarian - it’s about becoming a confident, capable guardian for the animal who depends on you. Even having a general understanding of what to do in an emergency can help you stay calm, take action, and support your pet until professional help is available.
At CliniPaw, we believe that caring for your pet goes far beyond nutrition (though we’re proud to help with that part too!). Knowing how to respond in an emergency is another meaningful way to protect your pet’s wellbeing.
A little preparation today could make all the difference tomorrow. And remember: if you’re ever unsure, trust your instincts and reach out to your vet - they’re always the best source of guidance.
