Answer

Thanks for the question XXXXXXXXXXXXX.

I have been in small animal practice for the best part of twenty eight years and have dealt with out of hours emergencies during that time. I think if an owner had phoned me and described the symptoms you have I would have told them to bring their cat down to the clinic at once no matter what the time of day.

I am afraid it is just not possible to give you any precise diagnosis from the symptoms you have described, the shallow breathing and lethargy could well represent some infections disease with a high temperature, and the paws being purple and swollen is a most alarming symptom.

I am sorry I cannot suggest any home remedy here as there is such a range of diagnosis, accordingly my advice must be that you should have your vet check your cat out sooner rather than later.

If I have not covered your question fully enough or you would like to ask more I will be online for the next hour or so and I will be at your disposal.

Scott Nimmo BVMS MRCVS

Expert:	Scott Nimmo BVMS, MRCVS.
Pos. Feedback:	100.0 %
Accepts:	1023
Answered:	2/2/2009

Cat Veterinarian

I have 28 years experience in all aspects of feline medicine and surgery.