Pet Vital Signs

1. Respiration Rate (Breathing) 

• Method: Count how many times your pet's chest rises and falls in 15 seconds while they are resting (not panting or dreaming).

• Calculation: Multiply the number of breaths by 4 (e.g., 5 breaths x 4 = 20 breaths per minute).

• Normal Range:

  • Dogs: 10–35 breaths per minute.

  • Cats: 20–30 breaths per minute.

• Signs of Distress: Labored, noisy, or open-mouth breathing (especially in cats). 

2. Heart Rate/Pulse 

• Method: Place your hand on the left side of the chest behind the elbow, or place two fingers on the inside of the thigh to find the femoral artery.

• Calculation: Count beats for 15 seconds, then multiply by 4.

• Normal Ranges (Resting):

  • Small/Medium Dogs: 70–140 beats per minute.

  • Large Dogs: 50–120 beats per minute.

  • Cats: 140–200 beats per minute.

• Rhythm: Should be steady and consistent. 

3. Gum Color & Capillary Refill Time (Perfusion) 

• Color: Lift the upper lip to check gums. They should be bubblegum pink.

• Abnormal: Pale, blue, white, or bright red gums suggest oxygen deprivation, shock, or severe issues.

• Capillary Refill Time (CRT): Press your finger on the gum to make a white spot, then release. Color should return within 1-2 seconds. 

4. Temperature

• Method: Use a digital thermometer lubricated with petroleum jelly and insert it gently about 1 inch into the rectum.

• Normal Range: 100°F – 102.5°F for both dogs and cats.

• Fever/Hypothermia: Temperatures over 103F or under 99F warrant a call to the vet. 

When to Call the Veterinarian

• If the heart rate or breathing is consistently outside the normal range while resting.

• If the gum color is pale or blue.

• If your pet is lethargic or shows signs of discomfort (panting, hiding, not eating)

 Thanks to Pet Health Network for brilliant advice and easy-to-follow instructions.