Pet CPR + First Aid Certification Manual: Choking
Pet Choking
Choking occurs when a foreign object partially or completely blocks a dog’s or cat’s airway. A choking emergency can quickly become life-threatening and requires immediate action.
Common Signs of Choking
Signs may include:
- Difficulty breathing
- Gagging or choking sounds
- Pawing at the mouth
- Panic or unusual distress
- Loud or abnormal breathing sounds
- Pale, blue, or gray gums or tongue
- Collapse or loss of responsiveness
If the pet is breathing effectively, keep it calm and seek immediate veterinary care. Weak or absent airflow requires immediate choking care.
First Aid Steps for a Choking Pet:
- Ensure scene safety and protect yourself from bites
- Arrange emergency veterinary help
- Do not reach into a conscious pet’s mouth
- For severe choking, give up to 5 firm back blows over the upper rear portion of the rib cage, to either side of the spine
- If unsuccessful, use an alternative maneuver appropriate to the pet and your training or veterinary guidance
- Alternate with back blows until the obstruction clears or the pet becomes unconscious
- If the choking pet becomes unconscious, begin 30 chest compressions at 100–120 per minute
- Check for a visible object when opening the airway; remove only if easily reachable
- Give 2 rescue breaths and continue cycles of 30 compressions and 2 breaths until normal breathing returns or veterinary professionals take over
- Seek immediate veterinary care, even after recovery
Back Blows
Give up to 5 firm back blows over the upper rear portion of the rib cage, to either side of the spine. Avoid striking the spine directly. Keep the pet securely supported. Do not perform blind finger sweeps. Alternative maneuvers include chest or abdominal thrusts, which can cause injury, especially in small or thin pets.
After the Object Is Removed
Seek immediate veterinary evaluation after choking required assistance, even if the pet appears to recover. Choking and airway-clearing procedures may cause injury or breathing complications that are not immediately obvious. Continue monitoring breathing, responsiveness, and overall condition while transporting the pet for veterinary care.
Preventing Choking
Keep small objects, bones, damaged toys, and other potential choking hazards away from pets. Choose toys and treats that are appropriate for the pet’s size and supervise pets when they are chewing unfamiliar items.