Breathing Problems
To determine if your pet is having shortness of breath, it is necessary to understand the difference between panting after exercise and true shortness of breath, called dyspnea.
Symptoms of Shortness of Breath
Dyspnea, shortness of breath, has different symptoms in dogs and cats.
Cats
Cats may display these symptoms :
- foam or froth at the mouth.
- dark discolored gums.
- nose breathing.
- hacking cough.
- hiding or avoidance behavior.
- curl up posturing.
- increased respiratory rate.
Dogs
Dogs may display these symptoms :
- avoid exercise.
- cough constantly.
- develop a hoarse bark.
- show constant anxiety.
- pant.
- dark, discolored gums.
- foam at the mouth.
- increased respiratory rate.
- breathe heavily using the abdomen.
Sometimes when a pet is in pain, under stress, drugged, of having neurologic problems, they can display the symptoms of dyspnea. Your veterinarian will be able to determine what is causing your pets shortness of breath.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Shortness of Breath
Your veterinarian may use diagnostic tests and breathing treatments on a pet experiencing breathing difficulty. These may include :
- IV fluids.
- Monitor blood oxygen.
- Oxygen therapy.
- Blood work.
- Medications like bronchodilators to expand the lungs, steroids to reduce inflammation, and diuretics to remove liquid from the lungs.
- X-rays of the chest or abdomen.
- Electrocardiogram to monitor the heart.
- Echocardiogram to determine if the pet has heart disease.
When you have any concerns about your pet’s breathing, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Call us with your questions about Breathing Difficulties and Shortness of Breath and to schedule an appointment.