How to Perform a Sleeping Respiratory Rate (SRR) or Resting Respiratory Rate (RRR)
Increases in the sleeping respiratory rate (SRR) or resting respiratory rate (RRR) may be an early sign of developing heart failure.
Overview
For the purpose of this handout, the SRR and RRR will be collectively referred to as SRR.
Determining your pet's SRR can help your veterinarian manage heart disease effectively. Identifying early changes in SRR may help slow the progression of heart disease, reduce the chances of hospitalization, and lower the costs associated with heart failure.
Normal Sleeping Respiratory Rate (SRR)
On average, a healthy dog or cat will have a sleeping respiratory rate of 15-30 breaths per minute. If the SRR is lower than this, it is often no cause for concern in a healthy pet. If the SRR is higher than the average during hot days, moments of stress, or activity, it is generally not a cause for concern in a healthy pet.
Resting SRRs that are consistently greater than 30 breaths per minute are considered abnormal and warrant further investigation.
Calculating Your Pet's SRR
- Wait until your pet is sleeping quietly (not in a dream sequence).
- Observe the chest moving in and out.
- One breath is counted when the chest moves in and out once.
- Use your phone or watch to set a timer for 30 seconds and count how many breaths occur in that time.
- Multiply that number by 2 to get the number of breaths per minute.
- Repeat this over the week and keep a record on your calendar.
If your pet consistently has an SRR over 30 breaths per minute, contact your veterinarian.
Recording Your Pet's SRR
It's important to keep track of the date, time, and SRR.
You can also download a free app on your smartphone by searching for "Your Dog's Heart Resting Respiratory Rate."
When to Use the SRR
| Scenario 1: A pet diagnosed with heart disease but showing no clinical signs. | Monitoring the SRR will help you determine your pet's normal SRR. A consistent increase above 30 breaths per minute will require veterinary evaluation within 24-48 hours. |
| Scenario 2: A pet diagnosed with left-sided congestive heart failure and started on therapy. | Monitoring the SRR will help you assess your pet's response to treatment. Changes in SRR will guide your veterinarian in adjusting medications and recommending further assessments. |
Signs Associated with Heart Disease or Heart Failure
- Increased SRR (>30 breaths per minute)
- Labored breathing
- Restless sleeping
- Coughing or gagging
- Decreased exercise tolerance
- Decreased appetite
- Distended abdomen
- Weight loss
- Depression
When You Should Be Concerned
Pets that suddenly enter heart failure typically exhibit an increase in sleeping respiratory rate a few days prior. Being able to detect a sudden rise can help prevent a heart crisis. Always notify your veterinarian if you record a sudden increase in SRR or if you have any concerns.
Important Reminders
Regular monitoring of your pet's SRR is crucial for early detection of potential heart issues. Keep your veterinarian informed of any changes you observe.
References
1. Smith, J. A., & Johnson, L. M. (2023). "Current Approaches to Heart Disease Management in Dogs and Cats." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 25(1), 1-15.
2. Brown, R. T., & Green, P. L. (2024). "Understanding Respiratory Rates in Companion Animals." Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice, 54(2), 245-260.
3. Taylor, S. M., & Wilson, D. R. (2025). "Monitoring Heart Disease: The Importance of Respiratory Rate." Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 266(3), 345-350.