Noisy breathing pets

noisy breathing pets

Introduction

Noisy breathing in pets is a respiratory symptom that can affect both dogs and cats. It refers to unusual sounds your pet may make while breathing, such as wheezing, snoring, or raspy noises. These changes in breathing patterns might indicate an underlying health issue that could affect your pet’s comfort and well-being.

Breathing is essential for delivering oxygen to the body, so any difficulty or change in how your pet breathes may be important to notice. Noisy breathing pets might be experiencing irritation, inflammation, or obstruction in their airways, but the cause can vary widely.

Why breathing changes matter

• They may signal respiratory infections or allergies.
• They could indicate airway narrowing or blockage.
• They might reflect other health conditions affecting the lungs or heart.

It is important to remember that this information does not replace professional veterinary advice. If you notice noisy breathing or any other unusual respiratory signs in your pet, you should contact a licensed veterinarian. A thorough examination is needed to understand the cause and determine the best care for your pet’s health and comfort.

Reviewed by the SASI Vet Respiratory Symptoms Editorial Board.

How this respiratory symptom typically appears

When pets experience respiratory issues, owners often notice a variety of signs that can vary from one animal to another. Commonly, you might see coughing or sneezing, which are ways your pet’s body tries to clear the airways.

Noisy breathing and related signs

Noisy breathing pets may make sounds like wheezing, snorting, or raspy breaths. This can happen during normal breathing or when your pet is active. Some pets might breathe faster than usual or even breathe with their mouth open, which is less common in cats but can occur in dogs.

Other symptoms to watch for

• Nasal discharge that could be clear, cloudy, or colored
• Reverse sneezing, which looks like sudden, rapid inhalations and can be alarming but is often harmless
• Effortful breathing, where your pet seems to struggle or work harder to breathe

Each pet may show these signs differently, and some symptoms might come and go. If you notice any changes in your pet’s breathing or other respiratory signs, it’s important to consult a veterinarian. They can provide guidance tailored to your pet’s specific situation.

Common possible causes

Noisy breathing in pets may arise from a variety of underlying causes. Understanding these common categories can help pet owners recognize when veterinary advice might be needed.

Mild infections and irritants

Respiratory infections, such as mild colds or upper respiratory infections, might cause noisy breathing. Exposure to environmental irritants like smoke, dust, or strong odors could also contribute to this symptom in some pets.

Allergies

Allergic reactions may lead to inflammation in the airways, resulting in noisy breathing pets might exhibit. These allergies could be seasonal or related to specific substances in the environment.

Upper airway issues

Structural problems or inflammation in the upper airway, including the nose, throat, or larynx, might cause noisy breathing. Conditions affecting these areas can vary widely in severity and origin.

Stress and excitement

In some cases, stress, anxiety, or excitement can cause changes in breathing patterns, which might sound noisy. This is usually temporary but should be monitored if it occurs frequently.

Because noisy breathing pets experience can have many different triggers, it is important to consult a licensed veterinarian for a thorough evaluation and personalized advice tailored to your pet’s specific situation.

Less common but important causes

In some cases, noisy breathing in pets may be linked to less common but more serious health issues. These conditions often require thorough evaluation by a veterinarian to determine the underlying cause and appropriate care.

Pneumonia and fluid around the lungs

Infections such as pneumonia can cause inflammation and fluid buildup in the lungs, which might lead to noisy or laboured breathing. Similarly, fluid accumulation around the lungs, known as pleural effusion, could contribute to respiratory changes that owners notice.

Heart disease and airway collapse

Less commonly, heart disease may affect breathing by causing fluid retention or reduced oxygen delivery. Airway collapse, particularly in small breed dogs, might also cause noisy breathing, especially during excitement or exercise.

Other possible causes

• In rare cases, tumours in the respiratory tract or chest area could be involved.
• Structural abnormalities or chronic inflammation might also play a role.

If your pet shows signs of noisy breathing, it is important to consult a veterinarian. They can perform a detailed examination and recommend any necessary tests to identify the cause and guide appropriate care.

When it may be an emergency

Noisy breathing in pets can sometimes indicate a serious problem that requires urgent veterinary attention. It is important to recognize the red flag signs that suggest your pet might be in distress and needs immediate care.

Signs to watch for

If your pet is showing any of the following symptoms, you should contact a veterinarian as soon as possible:

• Open-mouth breathing in cats, which is unusual and may signal difficulty breathing.
• Blue or pale gums, indicating possible low oxygen levels or poor circulation.
• Rapid or laboured breathing that seems excessive or persistent.
• Collapse or extreme weakness, which could mean your pet is struggling to get enough air.
• Struggling to catch their breath or gasping for air.

These signs may suggest a serious underlying condition affecting your pet’s respiratory system. While noisy breathing in pets can sometimes be harmless, the presence of these symptoms might mean an emergency situation. Always err on the side of caution and seek veterinary advice promptly to ensure your pet’s safety and well-being.

How veterinarians evaluate respiratory symptoms

When pets show signs of noisy breathing, veterinarians begin by gathering a detailed medical history. This helps them understand the duration, frequency, and any factors that might worsen or improve the breathing issues.

A thorough physical examination follows, during which the veterinarian listens carefully to the heart and lungs using a stethoscope. This can provide important clues about the pet’s respiratory health.

Diagnostic tests

To further investigate, veterinarians may recommend several diagnostic tests. These could include:

• X-rays to view the chest and airways
• Blood tests to check for infections or other underlying conditions
• Measuring oxygen levels to assess how well the pet is breathing

In some cases, ultrasound or advanced imaging techniques might be used to get a clearer picture of the respiratory system.

Each pet’s situation is unique, so the exact tests chosen may vary. If your pet is experiencing noisy breathing, it is important to consult a licensed veterinarian who can provide personalized advice and appropriate care.

What pet owners can monitor at home

When you notice noisy breathing in pets, there are several details you might observe at home to help provide useful information to your veterinarian. Monitoring your pet’s breathing rate while they are resting can give insight into whether their respiratory system is working harder than usual.

Pay attention to the effort your pet uses to breathe. Laboured or rapid breathing may indicate increased respiratory distress. You might also notice if your pet is coughing or sneezing more frequently, which could suggest irritation or infection.

Other signs to watch for

• Presence and type of nasal discharge (clear, cloudy, or coloured)
• Changes in activity level or willingness to play
• Appetite changes, such as eating less than usual
• Any known triggers that seem to worsen the noisy breathing, like exercise, excitement, cold air, or exposure to dust

Keeping a simple log of these observations may help your veterinarian better understand your pet’s condition. Remember, noisy breathing in pets can have many causes, so it is important to consult a licensed veterinarian for a thorough evaluation and personalized advice tailored to your pet’s needs.

General home care guidance

If your pet is experiencing noisy breathing, there are some general steps you might take at home to help keep them comfortable. It is important to keep your pet calm and avoid situations that could cause stress or excitement, as this may worsen their breathing.

Try to maintain a smoke-free environment and avoid exposure to strong fumes or irritants, which could aggravate respiratory symptoms. Ensuring good air quality in your home might support easier breathing for your pet.

Activity and rest

Preventing over-exertion is important, as excessive activity could increase respiratory effort. Encourage your pet to rest in a quiet, comfortable space where they feel safe.

Follow veterinary advice

Always follow the instructions provided by your veterinarian regarding your pet’s care. If you notice any changes in the noisy breathing or other concerning signs, contacting your veterinarian promptly is recommended. They can provide guidance tailored to your pet’s specific needs.

Supporting long-term respiratory health

Maintaining your pet’s respiratory health over time may help reduce the risk of noisy breathing pets experience. Regular veterinary checkups are important to monitor your pet’s overall respiratory function and catch any potential issues early.

Healthy lifestyle choices

Keeping your pet at a healthy weight might ease the strain on their respiratory system. Avoiding exposure to smoke, harsh aerosols, and other airborne irritants could also support clearer breathing and reduce inflammation.

Practical tips for daily care

• Using a harness instead of a tight collar may prevent unnecessary pressure on the neck and airway.
• Staying current on vaccinations as recommended by your veterinarian might help protect against respiratory infections that can worsen breathing difficulties.

If you notice any changes in your pet’s breathing or if noisy breathing pets become a concern, consulting a licensed veterinarian is the safest way to get personalized advice and appropriate care.

FAQs

What causes noisy breathing in pets?

Noisy breathing in pets may result from various issues such as airway inflammation, infections, allergies, or anatomical differences. In some cases, it could be related to foreign objects or growths in the respiratory tract. A veterinarian can help determine the underlying cause through a thorough examination.

When should I be concerned about noisy breathing in my pet?

If your pet’s noisy breathing is sudden, persistent, or accompanied by coughing, difficulty breathing, lethargy, or changes in appetite, it might indicate a more serious problem. Prompt veterinary evaluation is recommended to ensure your pet’s safety and comfort.

Can noisy breathing be a sign of an emergency?

Yes, noisy breathing that worsens quickly or is paired with signs like blue gums, fainting, or severe distress could be an emergency. In such cases, seek immediate veterinary care to address potential life-threatening conditions.

Is noisy breathing common in certain breeds?

Some breeds with shorter noses or unique airway structures may be more prone to noisy breathing. However, any pet showing new or worsening respiratory sounds should be assessed by a veterinarian to rule out health concerns.

How can I help my pet if they have noisy breathing?

While some causes of noisy breathing may improve with veterinary care, it’s important not to attempt home treatments without professional guidance. Always consult your veterinarian for advice tailored to your pet’s specific situation.

Summary

Respiratory symptoms in pets, such as noisy breathing, can be concerning for any pet owner. These signs may indicate a variety of underlying issues, ranging from mild irritations to more serious health conditions. Understanding that noisy breathing pets might be experiencing anything from allergies to infections or airway obstructions is important for timely care.

Why Respiratory Symptoms Matter

Breathing difficulties can affect your pet’s comfort and overall health. In some cases, noisy breathing might be a temporary issue, while in others, it could signal a condition that requires veterinary attention. Prompt evaluation helps ensure your pet receives the appropriate care.

Possible Causes

• Allergic reactions or environmental irritants
• Respiratory infections or inflammation
• Structural abnormalities or obstructions in the airway
• Chronic conditions affecting breathing

If you notice your pet has noisy breathing or other respiratory changes, it is best to consult a licensed veterinarian. They can provide a thorough examination and recommend the most suitable approach for diagnosis and management. Remember, early veterinary advice can help keep your pet comfortable and safe.

• Canadian Veterinary Medical Association
• American Veterinary Medical Association
• World Small Animal Veterinary Association
• Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph
• Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan

Disclaimer: This article provides general information about respiratory symptoms in pets and does not replace professional veterinary advice. Always consult a licensed veterinarian regarding your pet’s specific condition.