Pet coughing during sleep

pet coughing during sleep

Introduction

Noticing your pet coughing during sleep can be concerning. This symptom may affect both dogs and cats and could indicate changes in their breathing patterns. Understanding these changes is important because breathing difficulties might impact your pet’s overall health and comfort.

Breathing is a vital function, and any unusual sounds or interruptions during sleep might suggest an underlying issue. While occasional coughing can happen for various reasons, persistent or severe coughing during rest could be a sign that your pet needs veterinary attention.

This information is intended to help you recognize when your pet’s breathing might require closer observation. It is important to remember that this article does not replace professional veterinary advice. If you notice your pet coughing during sleep or have concerns about their respiratory health, 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 coughing during sleep, owners might notice a variety of signs that suggest their pet is having trouble breathing comfortably. Some pets may cough quietly or have occasional sneezing fits, while others might show noisier breathing or even faster breathing than usual.

Common signs you might observe

• Coughing or gagging sounds, especially during rest or sleep
• Sneezing or snorting noises
• Noisy or laboured breathing, sometimes with open-mouth breathing
• Nasal discharge that could be clear or coloured
• Reverse sneezing, which can look like rapid inhaling or choking
• Effortful breathing, where your pet seems to struggle to get enough air

Each pet may show these signs differently, and some might only have mild symptoms while others appear more uncomfortable. If you notice your pet coughing during sleep or any of these breathing changes, it’s important to consult a veterinarian. They can help determine what might be causing the symptoms and recommend the best course of action for your pet’s health and comfort.

Common possible causes

When you notice your pet coughing during sleep, it may be due to a variety of underlying causes. This symptom can arise from mild infections, irritants, allergies, or other respiratory issues. Understanding these possibilities can help you decide when to seek veterinary advice.

Mild infections

Respiratory infections caused by viruses or bacteria might lead to coughing, especially during rest. These infections often cause inflammation in the airways, which can trigger coughing fits while your pet is sleeping.

Irritants and allergies

Exposure to smoke, dust, strong scents, or household chemicals could irritate your pet’s airways. Allergies to environmental factors such as pollen or mold may also cause coughing that becomes more noticeable at night.

Upper airway issues

Conditions affecting the nose, throat, or voice box might result in coughing during sleep. In some cases, anatomical differences or mild obstructions can cause airway sensitivity that leads to coughing episodes.

Stress and other factors

Stress or excitement may sometimes contribute to coughing, although this is less common during sleep. It’s important to remember that the same symptom can have many different triggers, and a thorough veterinary evaluation is often needed to determine the cause.

If your pet is coughing during sleep, consider consulting a licensed veterinarian to discuss your observations and receive personalized guidance tailored to your pet’s health.

Less common but important causes

While many pets experience occasional coughing during sleep due to mild irritations, in some cases, this symptom might be linked to less common but more serious health issues. These conditions often require careful evaluation by a veterinarian to determine the underlying cause.

Potential serious causes

Less commonly, coughing during sleep could be related to problems such as pneumonia, which is an infection of the lungs that may cause persistent coughing and difficulty breathing. Heart disease is another possibility, as it can lead to fluid buildup in the lungs or around the heart, resulting in coughing episodes.

Airway collapse, especially in certain dog breeds, might also cause coughing that worsens when the pet is resting or sleeping. Additionally, fluid accumulation around the lungs (pleural effusion) can contribute to respiratory discomfort and coughing.

Rarely, tumours in the respiratory tract or chest area might cause coughing during sleep. Although these cases are uncommon, they highlight the importance of veterinary assessment if coughing persists or worsens.

If your pet is coughing during sleep and the symptom continues or is accompanied by other signs such as difficulty breathing, lethargy, or loss of appetite, it is important to consult a licensed veterinarian. They can perform appropriate examinations and recommend the best course of action tailored to your pet’s needs.

When it may be an emergency

Not all instances of pet coughing during sleep are urgent, but certain signs may indicate a need for immediate veterinary attention. Recognizing these red flags can help ensure your pet receives timely care.

Urgent signs to watch for

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

• Open-mouth breathing, especially in cats
• Blue or pale gums, which could suggest low oxygen levels
• Rapid or laboured breathing that seems unusual or worsens quickly
• Collapse or extreme weakness
• Struggling to catch their breath or gasping for air

These signs may indicate serious respiratory distress or other health problems that require prompt evaluation by a veterinarian. If you notice any of these symptoms alongside coughing during sleep, it is important to seek veterinary advice without delay.

Always trust your instincts as a pet owner. When in doubt, contacting a licensed veterinarian for guidance is the safest approach to protect your pet’s health and well-being.

How veterinarians evaluate respiratory symptoms

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

A thorough physical examination usually 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 that may be used

To gain a clearer picture, several diagnostic tools might be employed, including:

• X-rays to examine the lungs and chest structures
• Blood tests to check for infections or other underlying conditions
• Measurement of oxygen levels to assess how well the pet is breathing
• In some cases, ultrasound or advanced imaging techniques could be recommended for further evaluation

Each pet’s situation is unique, so the combination of tests will depend on the initial findings. If you notice your pet coughing during sleep or experiencing other respiratory symptoms, it is important to consult a licensed veterinarian for a thorough assessment and personalized advice.

What pet owners can monitor at home

When your pet is coughing during sleep, there are several details you can observe to help provide useful information to your veterinarian. Monitoring your pet’s breathing rate while at rest can give clues about their respiratory health. Count the number of breaths per minute when your pet is calm and relaxed.

Pay attention to the effort your pet uses to breathe. Labored or noisy breathing might indicate an underlying issue that needs veterinary evaluation. Also, note if your pet has any coughing or sneezing episodes, especially during sleep or rest periods.

Other signs to watch for

• Presence of nasal discharge or unusual secretions
• Changes in activity level or reluctance to exercise
• Variations in appetite or drinking habits
• Known triggers such as exercise, excitement, cold air, or exposure to dust

Keeping a simple diary of these observations may help your veterinarian understand your pet’s condition better. Remember, these signs might indicate a range of issues, so it is important to consult a licensed veterinarian for a thorough assessment and personalized advice.

General home care guidance

If you notice your pet coughing during sleep, there are several steps you might take at home to help keep them comfortable. Keeping your pet calm and relaxed can reduce stress, which may help ease coughing episodes.

Avoid exposing your pet to smoke, strong fumes, or other airborne irritants, as these could worsen respiratory symptoms. Ensuring good ventilation in your pet’s resting area might also be beneficial.

Activity and environment

Preventing over-exertion is important, especially if your pet shows signs of coughing or breathing difficulty. Gentle activity and plenty of rest could support their overall well-being during this time.

Following veterinary advice

Always follow the instructions provided by your veterinarian, as they have the best understanding of your pet’s specific needs. If coughing persists or worsens, contacting your veterinarian for further evaluation is strongly recommended.

Supporting long-term respiratory health

Maintaining your pet’s respiratory health over time may help reduce episodes of pet coughing during sleep and other breathing concerns. Regular veterinary checkups are important to monitor your pet’s overall health and catch any potential respiratory issues early.

Keeping your pet at a healthy weight might also support easier breathing, as excess weight can 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 to reduce pressure on the neck and airway.
• Keep your pet’s living environment well-ventilated and free from strong scents or chemicals.
• Stay current on vaccinations recommended by your veterinarian, as some respiratory infections can be prevented this way.

If you notice persistent coughing or breathing difficulties, especially during sleep, it is best to consult a licensed veterinarian. They can provide personalized advice and determine if further evaluation is needed to support your pet’s respiratory health.

FAQs

Why is my pet coughing during sleep?

Pets may cough during sleep for various reasons, including mild throat irritation, allergies, or respiratory infections. In some cases, coughing at night could indicate an underlying health issue that requires veterinary attention.

When should I be concerned about my pet’s nighttime coughing?

If your pet’s coughing is frequent, loud, or accompanied by other symptoms such as difficulty breathing, lethargy, or loss of appetite, it is important to consult a veterinarian promptly. Persistent coughing during sleep might signal a more serious condition.

Could environmental factors cause my pet to cough while sleeping?

Yes, environmental irritants like dust, smoke, or strong fragrances may trigger coughing in some pets, especially during rest. Ensuring a clean, smoke-free sleeping area might help reduce irritation, but a vet check is still recommended if coughing continues.

Is coughing during sleep common in older pets?

Older pets may be more prone to respiratory issues that cause coughing during sleep, such as heart disease or chronic bronchitis. Regular veterinary check-ups can help identify and manage these conditions early.

Can coughing during sleep be a sign of heart problems in pets?

In some cases, coughing during sleep might be related to heart conditions that affect the lungs. A veterinarian can perform appropriate tests to determine if the heart is involved and advise on the best course of action.

Summary

Noticing your pet coughing during sleep can be concerning, as respiratory symptoms may indicate a variety of underlying health issues. These symptoms could range from mild irritations to more serious conditions affecting the airways, lungs, or heart.

Possible causes might include allergies, infections, inflammation, or other respiratory problems. In some cases, coughing during sleep could also be related to issues such as fluid buildup or airway obstruction.

Why Veterinary Care Is Important

Because respiratory symptoms can have many different causes, it is important to work closely with a licensed veterinarian. They can perform a thorough examination and recommend appropriate diagnostic tests to better understand your pet’s condition.

Early evaluation and diagnosis may help manage symptoms effectively and improve your pet’s comfort and quality of life.

What You Can Do

• Observe your pet’s coughing patterns and any other symptoms.
• Note when the coughing occurs and any possible triggers.
• Contact your veterinarian for personalized advice and care recommendations.

Remember, while pet coughing during sleep might be harmless in some cases, it is always best to seek professional guidance to ensure your pet’s health and well-being.

• 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.