Petey's tests--how to take a cat's pulse?

[Helen]

Well, Petey's heart tests were all normal, including blood pressure. EXCEPT that his pulse rate is rapid, something like 240 beats/minute. So vet now wants me to check at home and see if I also record a rapid heart rate. Only problem, I cannot detect a heart beat on any of the cats except Squeaky, not that they cooperate by sitting still. Vet said I could borrow a stethoscope--hope that would help. Does anyone have any pointers about finding a cat's pulse? Vet said just try to see if his rate was more rapid than the others. Traci, help!!! How can I find his heart beat? Also, would not his blood presure be high if he was just excited in the vet's office?

[Traci]

To Monitor Heart Rate:

Lay kitty on side (preferrably on right side, but either is fine)

Place hand over kitty's chest just behind the shoulder blade to feel for the pulse OR place hand inside groin area to feel for the femoral pulse

Count the heartbeats per minute (i.e., count beats for 15 seconds and multiply by 4)

Normal pulse at rest should be between 110 and 140 beats per minute. (If kitty has been recently active or excited, this can be significantly higher)

NOTE: If kitty's heart rate is significantly higher or lower than the above normal range, please contact your vet for further instruction

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Yes, heartrate can increase due to stress. This is why your vet wants you to monitor at home.....hopefully, it's nothing serious.......best to check it when he is in relaxed state.