Pet CPR: Step-by-Step Emergency Resuscitation Guide for Dogs & Cats

RECOVER CPR GuidelinesThe Reassessment Campaign on Veterinary Resuscitation (RECOVER) initiative established evidence-based CPR guidelines for dogs and cats in 2012 (updated 2024). The key components: Basic Life Support (BLS) — chest compressions + ventilation; Advanced Life...

RECOVER CPR Guidelines

The Reassessment Campaign on Veterinary Resuscitation (RECOVER) initiative established evidence-based CPR guidelines for dogs and cats in 2012 (updated 2024). The key components: Basic Life Support (BLS) — chest compressions + ventilation; Advanced Life Support (ALS) — defibrillation, vasopressors, and antiarrhythmics when available. Bystander CPR initiated within 4 minutes of arrest significantly improves survival.

Step-by-Step BLS Protocol

• Step 1: Confirm unconsciousness and absence of breathing — call the dog/cat's name, gently shake
• Step 2: Check airway — pull tongue forward, clear visible obstruction
• Step 3: Begin chest compressions — rate 100-120/min, depth 1/3-1/2 chest width, allow full chest recoil between compressions
• Step 4: After 30 compressions, deliver 2 rescue breaths (close muzzle, breathe into nose for dogs; cover nose and mouth for cats)
• Step 5: Continue 30:2 ratio while someone drives to the nearest emergency vet

Compression Technique by Size

Dogs >15kg: Lateral recumbency, hands placed over the widest part of the chest (cardiac pump technique). Dogs <15kg and cats: Lateral or dorsal recumbency, one-handed circumferential compression (thoracic pump technique). Barrel-chested breeds (Greyhounds, Boxers): Dorsal recumbency, compress sternum directly over the heart. Rate always 100-120/min regardless of technique.

From the Author — Amanda Liu

I've been writing about cat health and behavior since 2018, and I still learn something new every week. My own three cats — Mochi, Luna, and Jasper — are my constant teachers. Luna taught me that cats can learn routines down to the minute (she sits by her food bowl at exactly 6 PM every day). Jasper showed me that even 'aloof' cats crave connection (he follows me from room to room, just to be nearby). And Mochi reminded me that trust is built in small moments — the slow blink across the room, the head bump at 2 AM, the purr that starts the moment I walk in the door. Every article I write is informed by these daily interactions.

Real Case — From Amanda Liu's Experience

When I first adopted Mochi from a rescue, she was terrified of everything — loud noises, sudden movements, even the crinkle of a treat bag. It took six months of patient, consistent work before she'd let me pet her without flinching. The turning point was a slow-blink exchange one evening. I'd read about the 2020 Scientific Reports study on cat slow blinking, and I decided to try it. I sat across the room, blinked slowly, and looked away. She blinked back. That was the moment she decided I was safe. I share this story not because it's unique — it's actually a common experience for rescue cat owners — but because it illustrates how even small, science-backed interactions can transform your relationship with a fearful cat.

References & Further Reading

• ASPCA. Common Dog & Cat Behavior Issues. aspca.org/pet-care
• American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA). Pet Behavior Resources. aaha.org
• Journal of Veterinary Behavior (Elsevier). Clinical Applications and Research. sciencedirect.com
• American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB). Position Statements & Resources. avsab.org

Citations are provided for educational reference. Content is reviewed periodically but does not replace professional veterinary advice. If your pet shows signs of illness, contact a licensed veterinarian immediately.