Expert: Jessica - 11/24/2010

Question
Hello,

We adopted our almost two year kitty last October and were
told at that time that he had asthma. In general he is fine
and when he seems to be having a hard time catching his
breath, we just make him stop playing for a little while.
Someone asked us the other day though whether he had
respiratory problems because he was lying on his back. He
loves to lay on his back or even sit on his butt, rather
than than laying on his front on all four legs. So I was
curious as to whether this behavior is common for cats with
breathing issues? The person who asked us didn't have a
reason for his conclusion, he just thought it made sense. I
thought I would see if other people had back-laying kitties
with breathing issues and what about that position might be
more comfortable for the cat.

Thanks!
Megan

Answer
Hi Megan,

Actually, I think this is probably just your kitty's personal preference.  Lying on the back can actually make breathing more difficult for cats with breathing problems, but typically only when they are in a crisis.  During these times, cats will often lie on their stomach and extend their neck to try to allow air through the trachea more easily.  They will also lie on their bellies with one shoulder up, shifting their weight to one side, trying to keep the pressure off of at least one lung.  But as long as they're breathing okay, no position seems to be most favorable.

I know in humans, however, it's recommended to sleep on the back if you have breathing problems.  It creates less pressure on the heart and lungs than sleeping on our side or stomach.  This is untrue for cats, as their thoracic cavity is arranged very differently.  But perhaps this is the reason why it would seem to make sense to your friend.

Best wishes!

Jessica