Cat Panting

Question
Hi! I just got my very first cat after a life of living with dogs about 2 months ago. I adopted Jack from the Humane Society, when I brought him home he has a respiratory infection so they gave me some antibiotics and he got over it. He is still prone to sneezing but no discharge and he eats normally and seems to be fine.

I just read about how it is abnormal for cats to pant. Well, my cat LOVES to play fetch and I throw a ball for him, seriously, about 50 times per night when I am home with him. He pants when he is running around a lot. Is this normal? I know this may be a dumb question but he is my first kitty and I am a nervous new mother :)
Thanks,
Jen

Answer
Hi Jen!  Congrats on your new kitty!  Cats are wonderful pets, and you will surely enjoy life with a feline companion!
Cats normally do not pant, but with exercising, this can be a possibility.  As long as he does not seem to be in respiratory distress (gums turning blue, laying on side, labored breathing) I don't think there is a need to worry.
You may want to have your veterinarian check him out for a clean bill of health to be sure that there is no left over fluid in his lungs.
I hope this helps and give Jack plenty of welcome home kisses for me!
Hilary