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New cat: squinting eye, long claws, heavy breathing. Is this normal?

Updated on September 23, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Russian Blue | Female | spayed | 8 lbs

I some concerns about my new cat. Firstly, I noticed that she squints her right eye a lot. This usually happens when she is curious, scared, aggressive, anxious, hears something, or even just laying still purring happily. Is this normal for cats much less Russian Blues? Secondly, her claws are enormously long and sharp. They need to be cut, but am unsure how since she's still adjusting to everything. What should I do? Lastly, sometimes she breathes heavily, not a lot, just some. Is that okay?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on December 27, 2016

The squinting could be behavioral or if Jayne's eye seems irritated or watery it could be a sign of an upper respiratory infection. You should absolutely trim her nails - it is usually easy to see the blood supply or quick since most cats have clear nails when the claw is extended. Go slow and try trimming just one nail a day to get her used to the procedure, and try giving a treat at the same time to make it a positive experience. Heavy breathing could be a sign of respiratory or cardiac disease, but could also be normal for an excited or agitated cat. You should have her examined by your veterinarian if you're concerned her breathing might not be normal.

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