Pet Respiratory Emergencies: How to Recognize and Respond Quickly

As pet owners, we often focus on injuries or digestive issues when it comes to our pets’ health, but respiratory emergencies in pets can be just as dangerous, if not more so. Pets, especially dogs and cats, can suffer from a variety of respiratory conditions that can escalate into life-threatening situations if not addressed quickly.

Whether your pet is having difficulty breathing, coughing excessively, or showing signs of severe distress, it’s essential to know how to recognize the symptoms of respiratory emergencies and how to respond effectively. In this blog, we will explore common respiratory issues in pets, how to spot signs of trouble, and what you should do if your pet is having a respiratory emergency.

Common Causes of Respiratory Emergencies in Pets

Just like humans, pets can suffer from a wide range of respiratory issues. These can range from mild conditions to severe emergencies that require immediate attention. Here are some of the most common causes of difficulty breathing in pets:

1. Asthma and Allergies
   Asthma, particularly in cats and certain dog breeds, is a condition where the airways become inflamed and narrow, making it difficult for the pet to breathe. Allergies, whether to pollen, dust, or food, can also trigger respiratory symptoms like coughing, wheezing, or labored breathing. If your pet has asthma, a sudden attack can cause their breathing to become labored or even stop temporarily.
2. Collapsed Trachea (in Dogs)
   A collapsed trachea is a condition commonly seen in smaller dog breeds, where the cartilage rings in the trachea weaken, causing the windpipe to collapse and obstruct airflow. This can lead to coughing, difficulty breathing, and respiratory distress. It’s especially common in older dogs and can be aggravated by excitement or physical activity.
3. Lung Infections and Pneumonia
   Respiratory infections in pets, like pneumonia, can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. These infections cause inflammation in the lungs and can make it hard for your pet to breathe. Pneumonia in pets can lead to symptoms like coughing, fever, nasal discharge, and difficulty breathing. If left untreated, it can quickly become a life-threatening emergency.
4. Choking or Obstructions
   Pets, particularly dogs, often have a tendency to chew on or swallow objects they find around the house, which can sometimes lead to choking or airway obstructions. Choking is an obvious respiratory emergency that requires immediate action to remove the obstruction.
5. Heart Disease
   Heart disease in pets can also lead to respiratory distress. Conditions like congestive heart failure cause fluid to build up in the lungs, making it difficult for pets to breathe. Pets with heart disease often have trouble breathing, especially after physical exertion or when they are lying down.
6. Trauma to the Chest
   If a pet suffers trauma to the chest, such as a hit from a car or a fall from height, the result can be a punctured lung or broken ribs, both of which can make it hard for them to breathe. Trauma-related respiratory emergencies can cause pain, shallow breathing, or labored breathing, and immediate medical attention is crucial.

Recognizing the Signs of Respiratory Distress in Pets

Respiratory distress is often obvious in pets, but it’s important to know what to look for in order to respond appropriately. Signs that your pet may be experiencing a respiratory emergency include:

• Labored Breathing: You may notice your pet panting excessively, even if they are at rest. If your pet is using their stomach muscles to breathe, or if their ribs are visibly expanding with each breath, this is a sign of labored breathing.
• Coughing or Gagging: Persistent coughing, especially if it’s severe or produces a thick mucus, can be a sign of respiratory distress. Some pets may also gag or make unusual noises when trying to breathe.
• Wheezing or Whistling Sounds: If your pet is wheezing, like a high-pitched whistle or rasping noise, it could indicate that their airways are narrowed or blocked.
• Open-Mouth Breathing: Dogs especially may open their mouths wide to try to get air. This can be a sign of significant difficulty breathing.
• Blue or Pale Gums: If your pet’s gums turn blue or pale, it’s a clear sign that they’re not getting enough oxygen. This is an emergency and requires immediate veterinary intervention.
• Excessive Drooling: Drooling, especially in conjunction with coughing or breathing problems, could signal that something is obstructing their airways.

If you notice any of these symptoms in your pet, it’s essential to seek urgent care for pets right away.

What to Do If Your Pet Is Having a Respiratory Emergency

If your pet is having difficulty breathing, time is of the essence. Here’s what you should do:

1. Stay Calm and Keep Your Pet Calm
   It’s crucial to remain calm so you can think clearly and help your pet. Keep your pet in a quiet, calm environment, and try to prevent them from moving around too much. Anxiety and excitement can make the situation worse by increasing their heart rate and further compromising their breathing.
2. Provide Fresh Air
   If your pet is indoors, move them to a well-ventilated area or outside if the weather is safe. Make sure they have access to fresh air, but avoid exposing them to extremes like hot or cold temperatures.
3. Seek Immediate Veterinary Care
   Respiratory emergencies in pets require urgent attention. Call your vet or the nearest emergency pet clinic immediately. If your regular vet is closed, find an after-hours pet clinic where they can assess your pet and provide the necessary treatment.
4. Transport Your Pet Safely
   When transporting your pet to the clinic, be as gentle as possible. If your pet is having trouble breathing, try to keep them as still as possible to avoid stressing their respiratory system further. Use a crate or carrier if needed, and ensure they are comfortable during the trip.

Treatment for Respiratory Emergencies

Once you get to the emergency pet clinic, your vet will assess your pet’s condition and determine the best course of action. Some common treatments for respiratory emergencies include:

• Oxygen Therapy: Providing your pet with oxygen can help alleviate breathing difficulties and stabilize their condition.
• Medications: Depending on the cause of the respiratory distress, your vet may administer medications like bronchodilators to open up the airways or antibiotics if a bacterial infection is present.
• Surgical Intervention: In cases of choking or severe trauma, surgery may be required to remove an obstruction or repair internal damage.
• Fluid Therapy: If your pet is suffering from an infection or other conditions like dehydration, they may need intravenous fluids to help stabilize their condition.

Conclusion

Pet respiratory emergencies can be frightening, but knowing how to recognize the symptoms and respond quickly can save your pet’s life. If you notice signs of difficulty breathing, such as wheezing, excessive coughing, or labored breathing, don’t hesitate to get emergency care for pets. Quick action and timely treatment are key to helping your pet recover and return to good health.

At North MS Pet Emergency, we are here to provide expert care during respiratory emergencies and other critical situations. Our team is ready to help your pet with immediate intervention, ensuring they receive the best possible care during a respiratory crisis.