Module 3: CPR Procedure for Dogs and Cats

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Step-by-Step CPR

✓The CPR Sequence

  • Position: lay the animal on its right side on a firm, flat surface
  • Airway: open the mouth, gently pull the tongue forward, and clear any visible obstruction
  • Compressions: place your hands over the widest part of the chest and compress about one-third to one-half the width of the chest, at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute
  • Breaths: after every 30 compressions, close the animal's mouth and give 2 rescue breaths by breathing gently into the nose until you see the chest rise
  • Cycle: continue cycles of 30 compressions to 2 breaths, checking for a pulse or breathing every 2 minutes
  • Continue until the animal starts breathing on its own, a veterinary professional takes over, or you reach the clinic

CPR has a low success rate even when performed correctly. Its real purpose is to buy time. Always have someone call the veterinary clinic while CPR is underway so the animal can be seen the moment you arrive.

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