Pets communicate a lot through their behavior, and sometimes their breathing sounds can be a clue about their health. Whether it’s a mild sneeze or a persistent cough, knowing when to be concerned can make a big difference for your pet’s well-being. At Animal Hospital at Hillshore, our goal is to help you understand what these sounds mean and when they require professional attention.

Breathing Noises in Pets: What’s Normal and What’s Not

Pets make various sounds as part of their normal behavior, but some noises might signal underlying health concerns.

Coughing

Coughing is often caused by minor issues like throat irritation but can also be linked to serious conditions such as:

  • Kennel Cough: A contagious respiratory infection common in dogs.
  • Heart Disease: Coughing due to fluid build-up around the lungs.
  • Collapsing Trachea: Common in small breeds like Chihuahuas and Yorkies, where the windpipe weakens over time.

A dry, persistent cough, especially if accompanied by lethargy or difficulty breathing, should be checked by a veterinarian.

Sneezing

Sneezing can happen for harmless reasons, such as dust or a tickle in the nose. However, chronic sneezing may indicate:

  • Allergies: Seasonal or environmental allergens.
  • Nasal Infections: Caused by viruses, bacteria, or fungi.
  • Foreign Objects: Grass seeds or other small particles lodged in the nasal cavity.

Cats are prone to viral infections like feline herpesvirus, which often causes recurring sneezing and watery eyes.

Snorting

Snorting is frequently seen in brachycephalic breeds like Pugs, Bulldogs, and Shih Tzus due to their shortened nasal passages. While snorting may be typical for these breeds, excessive snorting could point to:

  • Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome: Structural issues causing difficulty breathing.
  • Nasal Blockages: Such as polyps or inflammation.

Wheezing

Wheezing, a whistling sound during breathing, often indicates narrowed airways caused by:

  • Asthma: Particularly common in cats.
  • Chronic Bronchitis: Inflammation of the airways.
  • Serious Illnesses: Such as tumors or pneumonia.

If your pet is wheezing frequently or struggling to breathe, it’s time for an evaluation.

Signs That Require Veterinary Attention

Some respiratory sounds are harmless and resolve quickly, but others demand medical care. Here’s when to worry:

  • Persistent Symptoms: Coughing or sneezing lasting more than a week.
  • Labored Breathing: Open-mouth breathing, rapid breaths, or visible effort when inhaling.
  • Nasal Discharge: Particularly if it’s yellow, green, or bloody.
  • Behavioral Changes: Loss of appetite, lethargy, or avoiding activity.

These signs could point to serious issues like respiratory infections, heart disease, or even emergencies like oxygen deprivation. Learn more about recognizing emergencies through AAHA’s pet emergency guide.

How Animal Hospital at Hillshore Diagnoses Breathing Issues

At Animal Hospital at Hillshore, we use advanced diagnostics to pinpoint the cause of your pet’s respiratory symptoms.

Diagnostic Tools

  • Digital X-rays: Provide detailed images of the lungs and airways, helping to identify blockages, tumors, or infections.
  • Blood Tests: Detect underlying conditions like infections or allergies.
  • Endoscopy: A minimally invasive way to examine the airways and remove foreign objects.

Treatment Options

Once a diagnosis is made, our veterinarians develop a tailored treatment plan, which may include:

  • Medications: Antibiotics for infections, anti-inflammatories for asthma, or antihistamines for allergies.
  • Oxygen Therapy: For pets experiencing severe breathing difficulties.
  • Surgical Intervention: To address structural issues or remove obstructions.

Explore our Diagnostics services to learn more about how we identify and treat respiratory conditions.

Preventing Respiratory Problems in Pets

While not all respiratory issues are avoidable, these steps can reduce the risks:

  • Minimize Irritants: Keep your pet away from smoke, strong fragrances, and other airborne irritants.
  • Maintain a Healthy Weight: Especially important for short-nosed breeds to ease airway strain.
  • Use Air Purifiers: Helpful for pets with seasonal or environmental allergies.
  • Regular Wellness Exams: Preventive check-ups can catch early signs of respiratory or other health issues.

Learn about the benefits of preventive care with our Wellness and Prevention programs.

How We Support Your Pet’s Breathing Health

Breathing issues can range from mild to severe, and prompt care makes all the difference. At Animal Hospital at Hillshore, we pride ourselves on our compassionate approach, advanced diagnostics, and tailored treatments to ensure your pet’s comfort and health.

If you’re concerned about your pet’s breathing or other health issues, visit our Contact Page to schedule an appointment. Our dedicated team is here to support you and your pet every step of the way.