Cats typically don't breathe with their mouths open. If you notice this or can't feel a pulse or heartbeat, your cat might need CPR.

If your cat is hurt or bleeding, you could apply pressure. However, avoid giving any medications to cats at home. Cats are very sensitive and some human medicines can be toxic to them. Always have your vet's number at hand and call them immediately. They will instruct you on what steps to take.

There are some signs you may notice, like excessive drooling, vomiting, a hurt leg or visible bleeding. Your cat might also have trouble breathing. Any of these symptoms could indicate a need for first aid.

Surgery might be needed if your pet has a broken bone, internal issues, or external lacerations. The surgery could range from a sedation and a suture to a major surgery, depending on the condition.

Ask any questions that you have. We want you to be informed about what's going on with your pet so that you can take care of them in their normal home environment. You may want to ask about the go-home instructions and prognosis, particularly if there are any financial concerns. A prognosis involves how likely your pet is to recover and what the recovery would look like. Can you expect your pet to go back to normal or do you have to prepare for a new normal going forward? Another consideration is whether you are capable of caring for your pet through such a time, which may require time or financial investment.

It may need a blood screen to check out certain things that could be going on with the organs. We may want to take x-rays to determine if anything is broken if they got hurt. Or we may perform an ultrasound if we're concerned that something may be bleeding internally.