When Should I Be Concerned About My Pet's Coughing or Choking?

Coughing and choking may seem similar at first glance, but they are distinct respiratory events with different causes and implications. Recognizing the difference between these two conditions is crucial for providing appropriate care and seeking timely veterinary assistance when needed.
 

Coughing is a forceful expulsion of air from the lungs, often accompanied by a distinctive "hack" or "honk" sound. It can be a sign of various respiratory issues, such as allergies, infections, or chronic conditions like asthma or bronchitis. Coughing can also be a symptom of heart disease or other underlying health problems.
 

Choking, on the other hand, occurs when an object or foreign body becomes lodged in the throat or airway, obstructing the flow of air. This can be a life-threatening situation if not addressed promptly. Choking in pets can be caused by swallowing inappropriate objects, bones, toys, or even food that is too large or difficult to swallow.
 

Common Causes of Coughing in Pets

Coughing is a common symptom in pets and can be triggered by a variety of underlying causes. Understanding these causes can help you identify potential issues and take appropriate action. Here are some of the most common reasons why your pet may be coughing:

• Respiratory Infections: Viral or bacterial infections affecting the upper respiratory tract, such as kennel cough (in dogs) or feline upper respiratory infections (in cats), can lead to persistent coughing.
• Allergies: Environmental allergens like dust, pollen, or household chemicals can trigger allergic reactions in pets, leading to coughing and other respiratory symptoms.
• Asthma: Similar to humans, pets can develop asthma, a chronic inflammatory condition that can cause coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing.
• Heart Disease: Coughing can be a symptom of heart disease in pets, particularly if it occurs during exercise or excitement.
• Lungworms or Parasites: Certain parasitic infections, such as heartworm in dogs or lungworm in cats, can cause coughing and respiratory distress.
• Foreign Objects: If your pet has accidentally inhaled or aspirated a foreign object, such as a piece of toy or grass, it can lead to coughing as the body tries to expel the object.
• Chronic Bronchitis: Inflammation and irritation of the airways can lead to chronic bronchitis, a condition characterized by persistent coughing and mucus production.
• Tracheal Collapse: In small breed dogs, the trachea (windpipe) can weaken and collapse, leading to a distinctive "honking" cough.

Causes of Choking in Pets

While coughing is a common occurrence in pets, choking is a potentially life-threatening situation that requires immediate attention. Choking occurs when an object or foreign body becomes lodged in the throat or airway, obstructing the flow of air. Here are some of the most common causes of choking in pets:

• Swallowing Foreign Objects: Pets, especially dogs, are known for their curiosity and tendency to chew or ingest non-edible items, such as toys, balls, sticks, or bones. These objects can easily become lodged in the throat or airway, leading to choking.
• Eating Too Quickly: Some pets may gulp down their food too quickly, causing pieces of food to become stuck in their throat or airway.
• Bones or Rawhide Chews: While many pet owners provide bones or rawhide chews as treats, these items can break into sharp pieces and become lodged in the throat or airway, leading to choking.
• Dental Issues: Pets with dental problems, such as loose or broken teeth, may have difficulty chewing and swallowing properly, increasing the risk of choking.
• Paralysis or Neurological Conditions: Pets with paralysis or neurological conditions that affect their ability to swallow may be more prone to choking.
• Obesity or Neck Issues: Overweight pets or those with neck or throat abnormalities may have a higher risk of choking due to the increased pressure on the airway.

It's essential to be vigilant and monitor your pet during mealtimes, playtime, and when chewing on toys or treats. If you suspect your pet is choking, immediate action is required to dislodge the obstruction and restore breathing.
 

When to Be Concerned

While occasional coughing or gagging may be normal for pets, there are certain signs and symptoms that should raise concern and prompt immediate veterinary attention. Being able to recognize these serious symptoms can potentially save your pet's life in an emergency situation.

Coughing Symptoms that Require Veterinary Attention:

• Persistent or Severe Coughing: If your pet is coughing frequently or experiencing severe, prolonged coughing fits, it may indicate a more serious underlying condition.
• Coughing with Blood or Mucus: Coughing up blood or excessive mucus can be a sign of respiratory infections, lung disease, or other serious issues.
• Lethargy or Difficulty Breathing: If your pet appears lethargic, has difficulty breathing, or is experiencing labored breathing alongside coughing, it could be a medical emergency.
• Loss of Appetite or Weight Loss: Significant weight loss or a lack of appetite accompanying coughing may indicate an underlying health problem.
• Fever or Nasal Discharge: Coughing accompanied by a fever, nasal discharge, or other signs of illness can indicate a respiratory infection or more severe condition.

Choking Symptoms that Require Immediate Action:

• Difficulty Breathing or No Breathing: If your pet is unable to breathe or is experiencing severe difficulty breathing, it is a clear sign of choking and requires immediate intervention.
• Pawing at the Mouth or Throat: If your pet is pawing at their mouth or throat, it may indicate an obstruction in the airway.
• Gagging or Retching: Persistent gagging or retching can be a sign that your pet is choking on an object or foreign body.
• Blue or Pale Gums: If your pet's gums appear blue or pale, it may indicate a lack of oxygen due to choking.
• Distress or Panic: If your pet appears distressed, panicked, or is making unusual sounds, it could be a sign of choking or respiratory distress.

If you notice any of these serious symptoms or have concerns about your pet coughing or choking, take your pet to East Texas Pet Emergency Clinic in Longview, Texas, or call (903) 759-8545 today.