Pet breathing through mouth

pet breathing through mouth

Introduction

Noticing your pet breathing through mouth may feel concerning. This symptom can occur in both dogs and cats and might indicate changes in their respiratory health. Pets usually breathe through their noses, so mouth breathing can sometimes signal discomfort or an underlying issue.

Changes in breathing patterns are important because they can affect your pet’s overall comfort and well-being. Breathing difficulties might lead to reduced oxygen intake, which can impact energy levels and organ function. Observing how your pet breathes helps you recognize when something might need veterinary attention.

It’s important to remember that this information is meant to help you understand possible reasons for your pet’s breathing changes. It does not replace professional veterinary advice. If you notice your dog or cat breathing through mouth or showing other signs of respiratory distress, please consult a licensed veterinarian for a thorough evaluation and personalized guidance.

Reviewed by the SASI Vet Respiratory Symptoms Editorial Board.

How this respiratory symptom typically appears

When a pet is breathing through mouth, owners often notice several signs that may indicate respiratory discomfort. These signs can vary widely between individual pets, so it’s important to observe your pet closely and consider any changes from their normal behaviour.

Common signs you might see at home

• Coughing or frequent sneezing, which may suggest irritation or congestion.
• Noisy breathing, such as wheezing, snorting, or raspy sounds.
• Faster or more laboured breathing, sometimes with visible effort in the chest or abdomen.
• Open-mouth breathing, which is less common in cats but can occur in dogs and may indicate difficulty getting enough air.
• Nasal discharge that could be clear, cloudy, or coloured.
• Episodes of reverse sneezing, where the pet makes rapid inhalations that sound like snorting.

Each pet may show these signs differently, and some symptoms might be subtle at first. If you notice your pet breathing through mouth or any of these signs, it’s best to consult a licensed veterinarian. They can help determine the cause and recommend appropriate care tailored to your pet’s needs.

Common possible causes

When you notice your pet breathing through mouth, it may indicate a variety of underlying issues. This symptom can arise from mild to more serious conditions, so understanding some common causes can help you decide when to seek veterinary advice.

Mild infections and irritants

Respiratory infections, such as those affecting the upper airways, might cause your pet to breathe differently. Exposure to irritants like smoke, dust, or strong odors could also lead to mouth breathing as your pet tries to get more air.

Allergies

Allergic reactions may cause inflammation or congestion in the nasal passages, making it harder for your pet to breathe through the nose. In some cases, this can result in mouth breathing as a way to compensate.

Upper airway issues

Structural problems or obstructions in the nose, throat, or airways might contribute to breathing difficulties. These issues could be congenital or develop over time, and they often require professional evaluation.

Stress and other factors

Stress, anxiety, or overheating can sometimes cause pets to breathe through their mouths. This might be a temporary response but should be monitored closely, especially if it persists or worsens.

Because the same respiratory symptom can have many different triggers, it is important to consult a licensed veterinarian for a thorough examination and personalized guidance tailored to your pet’s needs.

Less common but important causes

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

Pneumonia

Pneumonia is an infection or inflammation of the lungs that can make breathing difficult. Pets with pneumonia might show signs such as coughing, lethargy, or increased respiratory effort, sometimes including mouth breathing.

Heart disease

Heart problems can lead to fluid buildup in or around the lungs, which may cause laboured breathing or mouth breathing. This is less common but important to consider, especially in older pets or those with known heart conditions.

Airway collapse and fluid accumulation

Some pets may experience collapse of the airway or accumulation of fluid around the lungs, both of which can affect normal breathing patterns. These issues might cause noisy or laboured breathing and could lead to mouth breathing in some cases.

Other causes

Rarely, tumours or growths in the respiratory tract might contribute to breathing difficulties. While uncommon, these conditions highlight the importance of veterinary assessment When unusual breathing signs are observed.

If you notice your pet breathing through mouth or showing any changes in breathing, it is best to consult a licensed veterinarian promptly for a thorough examination and guidance tailored to your pet’s needs.

When it may be an emergency

Noticing your pet breathing through mouth can be concerning, especially if it is accompanied by other serious signs. In some cases, open-mouth breathing in cats and dogs may indicate an urgent health issue requiring immediate veterinary attention.

Red flag signs to watch for

If your pet shows any of the following symptoms, it could be an emergency situation:

• Open-mouth breathing in cats, which is unusual and may signal distress
• Blue or pale gums, suggesting poor oxygen circulation
• Rapid or laboured breathing that seems difficult or exhausting
• Collapse or extreme weakness, where your pet cannot stand or move normally
• Struggling to catch their breath or gasping for air

These signs might indicate a serious respiratory or cardiovascular problem. If you observe any of them, it is important to contact a veterinarian promptly for advice tailored to your pet’s condition. Early assessment can help ensure your pet receives the care they need as soon as possible.

How veterinarians evaluate respiratory symptoms

When a pet is breathing through mouth or showing other respiratory symptoms, veterinarians begin by gathering a detailed medical history. This helps them understand the duration, frequency, and any possible triggers for the breathing difficulties.

A thorough physical exam 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 and overall condition.

Diagnostic tests

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

• X-rays to view the lungs, heart, and airways
• Blood tests to check for infections or other underlying issues
• Measurement of 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 and surrounding structures.

Each step helps the veterinarian gather information to better understand the cause of respiratory symptoms. If your pet is breathing through mouth or showing other signs of breathing difficulty, it is important to consult a licensed veterinarian for a thorough evaluation and personalized advice.

What pet owners can monitor at home

When you notice your pet breathing through mouth, it can be helpful to observe several details at home to provide useful information to your veterinarian. Monitoring your pet’s breathing rate while at rest is a good starting point. Count the number of breaths per minute and note if it seems faster or slower than usual.

Breathing effort and sounds

Pay attention to how hard your pet is working to breathe. Is the chest or belly moving more than normal? Are there any unusual sounds like wheezing, coughing, or sneezing? These signs might indicate increased breathing effort or irritation in the airways.

Other symptoms and triggers

Look for nasal discharge or changes in your pet’s appetite and activity level. Sometimes, breathing changes occur after exercise, excitement, exposure to cold air, or dusty environments. Keeping track of these triggers can help your veterinarian understand the situation better.

Remember, these observations do not replace professional veterinary evaluation. If you notice persistent or worsening symptoms, it is important to contact your veterinarian for personalized advice and care.

General home care guidance

If you notice your pet breathing through mouth, it may indicate that they are experiencing some difficulty with their breathing. While this can be concerning, there are several steps you can take at home to help support your pet’s comfort and well-being.

First, try to keep your pet calm and avoid any stressful situations. Stress and excitement might worsen breathing difficulties, so providing a quiet and comfortable environment can be beneficial.

Environmental considerations

• Avoid exposing your pet to smoke, strong fumes, or other airborne irritants that could aggravate their respiratory system.
• Ensure good ventilation in the area where your pet spends most of their time.

Activity and rest

Prevent over-exertion by limiting vigorous exercise or play, as this might increase respiratory effort. Encourage rest and monitor your pet closely for any changes in their breathing pattern or behaviour.

Always follow any specific instructions provided by your veterinarian. If your pet’s breathing through mouth persists, worsens, or is accompanied by other symptoms, it is important to seek veterinary advice promptly for a thorough evaluation and appropriate care.

Supporting long-term respiratory health

Maintaining your pet’s respiratory health over time involves several general strategies that may help reduce the risk of breathing difficulties. Regular veterinary checkups are important to monitor your pet’s overall health and catch any early signs of respiratory issues.

Keeping your pet at a healthy weight might also support easier breathing, as excess weight can sometimes put additional strain on the respiratory system. Avoiding exposure to smoke, harsh aerosols, and other airborne irritants could help minimize respiratory irritation.

Practical tips for daily care

• Use harnesses instead of tight collars when appropriate, as harnesses may reduce pressure on the throat and airway.
• Stay current on vaccinations recommended by your veterinarian, which might protect against infections that affect breathing.
• Monitor your pet for any signs of distress, such as pet breathing through mouth, and consult your veterinarian if you notice changes.

Each pet is unique, so it’s always best to discuss any concerns or questions about respiratory health with a licensed veterinarian who can provide guidance tailored to your pet’s needs.

FAQs

Why is my pet breathing through mouth?

Pets usually breathe through their nose, so breathing through the mouth may indicate discomfort or difficulty. This symptom might be caused by heat, stress, or an underlying health issue affecting the respiratory system. It’s important to observe your pet closely and consult a veterinarian if this behavior continues.

Is mouth breathing normal for dogs or cats?

Occasional mouth breathing can happen during exercise or in hot weather, especially in dogs. However, persistent mouth breathing in either dogs or cats could suggest respiratory problems or other medical concerns. A veterinary check-up can help determine the cause.

What other signs should I watch for?

Along with mouth breathing, watch for coughing, wheezing, nasal discharge, lethargy, or changes in appetite. These signs might indicate respiratory distress or illness and should prompt a veterinary evaluation.

Can mouth breathing be a sign of an emergency?

In some cases, yes. If your pet is struggling to breathe, appears very anxious, or has blue or pale gums, seek emergency veterinary care immediately. These signs could indicate a serious condition requiring prompt attention.

How can a veterinarian help if my pet is breathing through mouth?

A veterinarian can perform a thorough examination and may recommend diagnostic tests to identify the cause. Early assessment helps ensure appropriate care and supports your pet’s health and comfort.

Summary

Noticing your pet breathing through mouth can be concerning, as it may indicate an underlying respiratory issue. Respiratory symptoms in pets can range from mild and temporary to signs of more serious health problems. Understanding why these symptoms occur is important for ensuring your pet’s well-being.

Possible Causes

Pets might breathe through their mouth due to a variety of reasons, including:

• Heat or exercise causing temporary increased breathing effort
• Obstructions or irritation in the airways
• Respiratory infections or inflammation
• Cardiac or systemic conditions affecting breathing

When to Seek veterinary care

Because the causes of respiratory symptoms can vary widely, it is important to have your pet evaluated by a veterinarian. A professional assessment can help determine the cause and guide appropriate care. Early attention may prevent complications and improve outcomes.

Remember, while seeing your pet breathe through mouth might be alarming, staying calm and consulting a licensed veterinarian is the best step to support your pet’s health and comfort.

• 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.