Pet CPR + First Aid Certification Manual: Choking
CHOKING: HEIMLICH MANEUVER FOR PETS
Just like in humans, when pets choke it is because a foreign object is in the airway. Immediate action is crucial in cases of cat choking, including calling a vet. The first step is to open the mouth, pull the tongue forward and perform a finger sweep, if an object is viewable and removable. Please note, there is a high risk of being bitten with the maneuver. Also, if no item is viewable or removable, do not perform a blind finger sweep.
Recognizing the signs of a choking dog or cat is essential. Symptoms include coughing, difficulties in inhaling, and behaviors such as pawing at the mouth or appearing panicked. Check the dog's mouth (or, cat's mouth) for any lodged objects. The second step is to perform 5 abdominal thrusts upward and inward (think Heimlich maneuver for pets). The hand formation for this should be a fist (thumb into the abdomen) with a hand wrapped over it around the pet. If the object is still not removed, you may hang the pet’s head downward and strike 5 times with an open palm between the shoulder blades. If the object remains lodged in the dog's throat (or, cat's throat), take the pet to the emergency vet immediately.
Continue the thrusts and/or back blows while en route to the veterinarian until either the object is dislodged, or your pet loses his/her pulse. If that happens, start CPR. Knowing how to perform the Heimlich maneuver for dogs is crucial. Continuous monitoring is necessary to prevent pet choking incidents.
First Aid for Steps for a Choking Pet:
- Ensure scene safety
- Get PPE
- Perform the Heimlich maneuver as described above while en route to the veterinarian
- Proceed with back blows if necessary
- Proceed with CPR if necessary
Remove any potential choking hazard from the pet's environment. For smaller dogs, apply pressure beneath the rib cage carefully. Smaller dogs should be carefully held during the Heimlich maneuver, turning them onto their back and applying pressure beneath the rib cage. Contact the vet immediately after the pet has stopped choking to check for any unseen damage.