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My newborn kitten gasps for air when I touch him. Is it normal?

Updated on September 23, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 3 days old | 3 lbs

Beans keeps opening his mouth and gasping for air he only does it when I touch him he was born last Wednesday and he's a ginger Tabby but why does he keep doing that when I touch him?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on April 8, 2017

Oh no, poor Beans! Your hands may be cold, which is why he's gasping when you touch him. He's also blind and deaf (all kittens are when they are born), so touching him may startle him, leading to the gasping. I would refrain from touching him at this point in time, and if this behavior stops, then I would not worry about it. Refrain from handling him until he's at least 2-3 weeks old. Should he be gasping for air without you touching him, then he may be in respiratory distress which is a medical emergency, and he will have to see a vet immediately.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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