Understanding Respiratory Symptoms in Pets at Tender Touch Animal Hospital

When pets make unusual respiratory noises, it can be concerning for pet owners. Understanding the difference between normal and worrisome sounds is crucial for early intervention and effective treatment. At Tender Touch Animal Hospital in Kingston, we help pet owners identify these symptoms and determine when veterinary care is necessary.

This guide explores common respiratory symptoms in pets, including coughing, sneezing, wheezing, reverse sneezing, and snoring.

Coughing in Pets

Causes of Coughing

Coughing in pets can stem from various causes, including:

  • Infectious Diseases – Conditions such as Kennel Cough (Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex) are highly contagious.
    Learn more about Kennel Cough.
  • Chronic Conditions – Heart disease, allergies, or lung conditions can contribute to chronic coughing. Left untreated, these issues can lead to severe complications.
  • Environmental Irritants – Smoke, dust, or air pollution may trigger coughing episodes, particularly in pets with sensitivities.

Diagnosis and Treatment

A veterinarian can determine the cause of your pet’s cough through a physical examination, chest X-rays, blood tests, and airway analysis. Treatment may include:

  • Antibiotics or antivirals for infections
  • Cough suppressants for persistent dry coughs
  • Steroids or bronchodilators for inflammatory conditions such as asthma
  • Lifestyle adjustments to reduce exposure to environmental triggers

When to Visit the Vet

Persistent coughing or coughing accompanied by symptoms such as lethargy, appetite loss, or difficulty breathing requires prompt veterinary attention.

Sneezing and Reverse Sneezing in Dogs and Cats

Causes and Management

  • Sneezing is a natural response to irritants such as dust, pollen, infections, or foreign bodies in the nasal passages.
  • Reverse sneezing occurs when a pet makes sudden, repetitive inhaling noises, often triggered by excitement, leash pulling, or allergens.

When to Seek Veterinary Help

While occasional sneezing or reverse sneezing is normal, frequent, excessive sneezing could indicate:

  • Dental infections
  • Nasal tumors or polyps
  • Chronic respiratory infections

If your pet exhibits nasal discharge, swelling, or frequent sneezing fits, schedule a veterinary evaluation.
Learn more about feline upper respiratory infections.

Wheezing in Pets

Causes of Wheezing

Wheezing is a whistling or raspy sound during breathing, often caused by:

  • Asthma or Allergic Bronchitis – Especially common in cats, leading to chronic inflammation and breathing difficulties.
    Learn more about feline asthma.
  • Foreign Body Obstruction – Something lodged in the airway may require immediate removal.
  • Heart Disease – Fluid buildup in the lungs (pulmonary edema) can cause wheezing and difficulty breathing.
    Learn about heart disease diagnosis.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnostic tools such as X-rays, ultrasounds, and blood work help determine the cause of wheezing. Treatment may include:

  • Bronchodilators to open airways
  • Steroids to reduce inflammation
  • Oxygen therapy in severe cases

Read more about respiratory distress in pets.

Snoring in Pets

Normal vs. Abnormal Snoring

  • Brachycephalic breeds (Bulldogs, Pugs, Persian cats) commonly snore due to their facial structure.
    Learn about Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS).
  • Snoring accompanied by difficulty breathing, restlessness, or frequent waking could indicate a health concern requiring veterinary evaluation.

Our Veterinary Team is Here to Help

Our veterinary team specializes in diagnosing and treating respiratory conditions to ensure your pet’s comfort and long-term health.

Tips for Pet Owners

  • Maintain a clean environment – Reduce exposure to dust, smoke, and allergens.
  • Use a harness instead of a collar – Especially for pets prone to tracheal collapse.
    Read more about collapsed trachea in dogs.
  • Monitor respiratory symptoms – Note any changes in frequency or severity.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pet Respiratory Sounds

How can I tell if my pet’s cough is serious?

Persistent coughing, especially when paired with lethargy, appetite loss, or difficulty breathing, should be evaluated by a veterinarian.

What home remedies are safe for my sneezing cat?

A humidifier can help keep nasal passages moist, and reducing exposure to strong perfumes or cleaning products may prevent irritation. Check out allergy tips for small animals from Purdue.

Are certain breeds more prone to respiratory issues?

Yes, brachycephalic breeds (Bulldogs, Pugs, Persian cats) are at a higher risk due to their shortened airways.

When to Seek Veterinary Care

Severe difficulty breathing, blue-tinged gums, excessive wheezing, or sudden respiratory distress require emergency veterinary attention.

At Tender Touch Animal Hospital, we provide comprehensive respiratory care for pets.
Contact us if you have concerns about your pet’s breathing or respiratory health.