Knowing your cat's normal pulse rate can give you some hints about the cat's overall health. A pulse rate that is faster than normal could mean the cat is stressed, or it could indicate a serious health problem. A slower than normal pulse rate, too, can be a sign of distress.
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Normal Pulse Rate
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The normal pulse rate for cats is 160 to 240 beats per minute, according to the Colorado State College of Veterinary Medicine.
Finding the Pulse
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The easiest place to find your cat's pulse is inside the back leg in the groin area. Gently move your fingers along the leg towards the cat's stomach until you feel the pulse.
Counting Beats
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A cat's pulse rate is determined by counting the number of beats for 15 seconds and multiplying that number by four.
Abnormal Pulse Rate
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An abnormal pulse rate---whether too fast or too slow---can indicate shock or heart disease. Hyperthyroidism causes a faster than normal pulse rate.
Counting Heartbeats
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In most cats, it's easier to feel the heartbeat than the pulse. Place your hand on the chest where the cat's raised elbow would touch the chest. Count the heartbeats for 15 seconds and multiply the number by four. Like the pulse rate, a cat's normal heart rate is 160 to 240 beats per minute.
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