Only the head went under briefly?

Call for guidance. Brief events can still warrant a check if coughing or lethargy follows.

Call for guidance. Brief events can still warrant a check if coughing or lethargy follows.

Cat fell in a pool

Get the cat out, dry and warm, and seek care after significant submersion or ongoing lethargy.

Scenario	Near-drowning / water inhalation
Vet vs poison control vs ER	Near-drowning is an ER veterinary emergency. Poison control is unrelated unless the water was chemically treated in a way that also caused toxicity (rare; still tell the ER).

Get the pet to dry land and clear obvious debris from the mouth if visible and easy to remove
Keep the neck aligned; avoid shaking
Cover with a towel and keep warm
Seek emergency care even if the pet coughs once and seems better
Do not delay for home observation — fluid in the lungs can worsen later

Mention pool chemicals if relevant. The bigger issue is water in the lungs.

Use a carrier; minimize struggle that worsens breathing work.

Cats may hide and quiet down. Recheck breathing rate after you get home — then still follow ER advice if submersion was real.

Open-mouth breathing is ER language.

This is general information, not a diagnosis. Contact your vet for anything urgent or unclear.

Only the head went under briefly?: Call for guidance. Brief events can still warrant a check if coughing or lethargy follows.