Dr. Russell has requested a Sleeping Respiration Rate (SRR) for your pet. To get started you’ll need a timer to count to 30 seconds or 60 seconds; a pen and paper to document your results; this is often easiest with two people.
Next, make sure your pet is completely asleep, but not actively dreaming. Also, it’s important to take these measurements on mild days, if it’s too hot in the house the results won’t be ideal.
- Now set your timer and start counting the number of times your pet’s chest moves in and out (in and out together counts as one breath) over a period of 30 seconds or 1 minute
- Record the number of breaths per minute (if you only counted to 30 seconds, multiply your number by 2)
- Repeat this 2-4 times a week
This is something easy you can do at home and is extremely helpful, together we can determine if your pet’s breathing changes may be associated to heart or lung changes.
Please call us if you have any questions about how to calculate your pet’s sleeping respiratory (breathing) rate.
For Dogs: Normal is less than 25. Call us if it is 30 or greater. Your pet needs to see a veterinarian ASAP if it is more than 50.
For Cats: Normal is less than 30-40. Call us if it is 40 or greater. Your pet needs to see a veterinarian today if it is more than 50.
Please monitor your pet’s sleeping respiratory rate as instructed and bring the results with you for your pet’s next check-up.
Thank you,
Your ECVC Team
Edmonton Community Veterinary Clinic | Edmonton Alberta Canada 