Why Is My Pet Coughing?

Why Is My Pet Coughing? Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A coughing pet can be concerning for any pet owner. While occasional coughing may not be serious, persistent or severe coughing could indicate an underlying health problem that requires medical attention. In this blog, we’ll explore the possible reasons why your pet is coughing and how you can treat it effectively.

Understanding Coughing in Pets

Coughing is the body's natural response to irritation or infection in the respiratory system. It helps clear mucus, dust, or foreign particles from the airways. However, frequent or prolonged coughing may signal an infection, inflammation, or other serious health conditions.

Types of Cough in Pets

The type of cough your pet has can help determine the cause:

• Dry, hacking cough – Often linked to infections like kennel cough.
• Wet, phlegmy cough – Could indicate pneumonia or lung disease.
• Honking cough – Common in dogs with tracheal collapse.
• Gagging cough – May be caused by something stuck in the throat.
• Wheezing cough – Could be due to asthma or allergies.

Common Causes of Coughing in Pets

1. Kennel Cough (Canine Infectious Tracheobronchitis)

• A highly contagious respiratory infection in dogs, caused by Bordetella bronchiseptica and viruses.
• Common in dogs that visit kennels, dog parks, or grooming centers.
• Symptoms: Dry, hacking cough, sneezing, nasal discharge, and mild fever.

2. Canine Influenza (Dog Flu)

• A contagious viral infection affecting dogs.
• Symptoms: Coughing, fever, nasal discharge, lethargy, and loss of appetite.

3. Feline Upper Respiratory Infections (Cat Flu)

• Caused by viruses like feline herpesvirus and calicivirus.
• Symptoms: Coughing, sneezing, runny nose, and eye discharge.

4. Heart Disease (Congestive Heart Failure)

• Can cause fluid buildup in the lungs, leading to a chronic cough.
• More common in older pets or certain dog breeds (e.g., Cavalier King Charles Spaniels).
• Symptoms: Coughing at night, difficulty breathing, and lethargy.

5. Tracheal Collapse (Common in Small Dog Breeds)

• A condition where the trachea (windpipe) weakens and collapses.
• Common in small breeds like Yorkshire Terriers, Pomeranians, and Chihuahuas.
• Symptoms: Honking, goose-like cough, worsens with excitement or exercise.

6. Allergies and Irritants

• Pets can develop allergic reactions to dust, pollen, smoke, or perfumes.
• Symptoms: Coughing, sneezing, watery eyes, and itching.

7. Pneumonia

• A serious lung infection caused by bacteria, viruses, or aspiration of food.
• Symptoms: Wet, phlegmy cough, fever, difficulty breathing, and lethargy.

8. Parasites (Heartworm or Lungworm)

• Heartworm disease (common in dogs) can cause persistent coughing and heart failure.
• Lungworm infections (common in cats and dogs) cause respiratory distress.
• Prevention: Regular deworming and heartworm preventive medications.

9. Foreign Objects Stuck in the Throat

• Small objects, grass, or bones can get lodged in the throat, causing sudden gagging and coughing.
• Immediate veterinary attention is required if choking occurs.

10. Cancer or Tumors in the Respiratory Tract

• In rare cases, tumors in the lungs or throat can cause coughing.
• Symptoms: Chronic cough, weight loss, and breathing difficulties.

How to Treat a Coughing Pet

1. Identify and Treat the Underlying Cause

• If your pet’s cough is mild and temporary, home care may be enough.
• If the cough is persistent, severe, or accompanied by fever, lethargy, or difficulty breathing, see a vet immediately.

2. Keep Your Pet Hydrated

• Encourage drinking water to soothe the throat and loosen mucus.
• For dogs, you can offer low-sodium chicken broth for extra hydration.

3. Use a Humidifier or Steam Therapy

• Adding moisture to the air can help ease breathing.
• Run a humidifier in your pet’s sleeping area or let them sit in a steamy bathroom for a few minutes.

4. Avoid Exposure to Smoke and Irritants

• Keep pets away from cigarette smoke, household cleaners, and perfumes.
• Ensure proper ventilation in the house.

5. Medications and Veterinary Treatment

• Antibiotics – If the cough is due to bacterial infections like pneumonia.
• Cough suppressants – Only if prescribed by a vet (not for infections).
• Bronchodilators – For pets with asthma or tracheal collapse.
• Heartworm treatment – If heartworms are diagnosed.
• Steroids or antihistamines – For pets with allergies or inflammation.

6. Vaccination and Preventive Care

• Ensure your pet is vaccinated against kennel cough, canine influenza, and other respiratory infections.
• Use monthly heartworm prevention for dogs in high-risk areas.

7. Rest and Isolation (for Contagious Infections)

• If your pet has kennel cough or flu, isolate them from other pets to prevent spreading the infection.
• Allow them to rest in a quiet, stress-free environment.

When to See a Veterinarian Immediately

🚨 Persistent cough lasting more than a week
🚨 Difficulty breathing or blue gums
🚨 Coughing up blood or foam
🚨 Loss of appetite and weight loss
🚨 Severe lethargy or fever

Conclusion

Coughing in pets can be caused by minor irritations or serious health conditions. Identifying the cause early and providing the right treatment can help your pet recover quickly. If your pet’s cough is severe or persistent, always consult a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Is your pet coughing frequently? Schedule a vet visit today for expert advice and treatment!