When flames tore through a senior living complex in Riverside County, California, residents rushed to safety. But inside one apartment, four cats remained trapped as smoke spread through the building.

Firefighters searching the unit found the animals unconscious and suffering from smoke inhalation. One cat had collapsed beneath a bed. Others appeared lifeless as crews carried them outside, according to KAKE News.

Four cats survived a devastating apartment fire.

CPR and Oxygen Bring Cats Back From the Brink

First responders immediately began lifesaving efforts. Firefighters performed chest compressions and mouth-to-snout resuscitation while administering oxygen through specialized animal masks. A Riverside County sheriff’s deputy joined the effort as crews worked to revive the cats, WOWT reports.

After several tense minutes, the animals began to respond. Video released by the fire department showed the cats regaining consciousness as rescuers continued to monitor them.

Smoke Inhalation Can Be Deadly for Pets

Veterinary experts warn that smoke inhalation is one of the greatest dangers animals face during house fires. According to VCA Animal Hospitals, toxic gases and reduced oxygen levels can quickly lead to respiratory distress, neurological problems, and even death.

Pets often hide when frightened, making rescue more difficult. Cats in particular may seek shelter under furniture or in closets rather than flee from danger.

Firefighters used CPR to revive unconscious cats.

Special Equipment Gives Pets a Fighting Chance

Animal oxygen masks have become essential tools for many fire departments. The nonprofit Wag'N O2 Fur Life has distributed thousands of kits to emergency agencies across North America to help save pets affected by smoke exposure.

These masks are designed specifically for animals and can fit pets of different sizes. Their growing use reflects how often firefighters encounter animals during emergencies.

Fire crews across the country have embraced these lifesaving tools. As EMS World reports, departments regularly use pet oxygen masks to revive animals rescued from fires.

For four cats in Riverside County, that preparation—and the determination of first responders who refused to give up—made all the difference.