Understanding Common Respiratory Symptoms in Pets

Pet Respiratory Health

Respiratory health plays a crucial role in your pet’s overall well-being. Just like humans, pets can exhibit coughing, sneezing, wheezing, reverse sneezing, and snoring—symptoms that may indicate anything from mild irritation to serious medical conditions.

At Advanced Veterinary Medical Center in Milpitas, California, we specialize in diagnosing and treating respiratory issues in pets. Learn more about our clinic and services.

Decoding Coughing in Pets

Coughing in pets can result from a variety of causes, ranging from mild infections to serious diseases. Understanding the type of cough can help determine the underlying issue.

  • Dry, hacking cough – May indicate Kennel Cough, a contagious respiratory infection.
  • Moist, productive cough – Could suggest pneumonia, heart disease, or a bacterial infection.
  • Honking cough – Often associated with tracheal collapse, particularly in small breed dogs.

Kennel Cough and Other Contagious Diseases

Kennel Cough, or Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex (CIRDC), spreads easily in boarding facilities, dog parks, and shelters. Without treatment, it can progress to pneumonia.

Read more about Kennel Cough and CIRDC.

Diagnosis and Treatment

To diagnose coughing in pets, veterinarians may conduct:

  • Physical exams to assess breathing sounds
  • Radiographs (X-rays) to check for lung infections or heart disease
  • Blood tests to rule out systemic conditions

Treatment varies based on the cause and may include:

  • Antibiotics or antivirals for infections
  • Cough suppressants for persistent dry coughs
  • Bronchodilators and steroids for inflammatory conditions like asthma

Preventative vaccinations for Bordetella bronchiseptica and canine influenza can reduce the risk of respiratory infections.

What Sneezing Signals in Your Pet

Occasional sneezing is normal, but frequent sneezing with nasal discharge may indicate:

  • Allergies – Environmental triggers like pollen, dust, or mold
  • Fungal infections – More common in outdoor pets
  • Dental disease – Infections can spread to the sinus cavity

When to See a Vet for Sneezing

If sneezing is accompanied by bloody discharge, swelling, or breathing difficulties, your pet may need immediate veterinary attention to rule out serious infections or nasal tumors.

Understanding Wheezing in Pets

Wheezing is a high-pitched, whistling sound caused by narrowed or obstructed airways.

Common Causes of Wheezing

  • Asthma in Cats – Often triggered by allergens, causing inflammation and airway constriction. Chronic asthma attacks can lead to long-term lung damage.
  • Foreign objects – Small toys, seeds, or debris lodged in the airway.
  • Heart disease – Can cause fluid buildup in the lungs, leading to wheezing and coughing.

When Wheezing Requires Emergency Care

Seek immediate veterinary care if wheezing is accompanied by:

  • Open-mouth breathing or gasping
  • Pale or blue gums (a sign of oxygen deprivation)
  • Collapse or extreme lethargy

Asthmatic cats may require long-term bronchodilator therapy to prevent life-threatening attacks.

Reverse Sneezing: What Pet Owners Should Know

Reverse sneezing is a dramatic yet harmless condition where a pet makes snorting or honking noises due to an irritated throat or nasal passage.

Common Triggers of Reverse Sneezing

  • Excitement or exercise
  • Leash pulling (especially in small dogs)
  • Strong odors or allergens

Most episodes last 30–60 seconds and resolve on their own. However, frequent or prolonged episodes could indicate underlying respiratory irritation, nasal mites, or polyps, warranting veterinary evaluation.

When Snoring Becomes a Concern

While some pets naturally snore, especially brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds like Bulldogs and Pugs, excessive snoring may indicate:

  • Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) – A condition where narrowed nostrils, an elongated soft palate, or a restricted airway cause breathing difficulties.
  • Obesity – Extra weight places pressure on airways, making breathing more difficult.

Learn more about BOAS and its treatment options.

If your pet’s snoring is accompanied by choking, gasping, or difficulty exercising, a veterinary consultation is recommended.

When to Visit Your Veterinarian

You should seek immediate veterinary care if your pet experiences:

  • Persistent coughing lasting over 24 hours
  • Wheezing or gasping for air
  • Blue or pale gums (sign of low oxygen levels)
  • Lethargy or refusal to eat

At Advanced Veterinary Medical Center, we provide comprehensive respiratory exams to diagnose and manage your pet’s condition. Schedule an appointment today.

A small dog with brown and white fur receives oxygen through a clear mask held by a person. The dog appears calm and relaxed during the treatment.

FAQs on Respiratory Symptoms in Pets

How can I tell if my pet’s snoring is normal?

Monitor changes in your pet’s snoring. If it becomes louder, occurs suddenly, or is accompanied by breathing pauses, consult your veterinarian.

What are emergency signs for respiratory issues?

Signs like blue gums, severe wheezing, excessive panting, or collapse require immediate veterinary care.

Preventive Measures for Respiratory Health in Pets

  • Keep your home smoke-free and avoid fragrance sprays to prevent airway irritation.
  • Clean bedding and living areas regularly to reduce allergens.
  • Keep your pet’s weight in check—excess weight can worsen breathing issues.
  • Ensure routine vaccinations to prevent respiratory infections like Kennel Cough and Canine Influenza.
  • Use low-dust cat litters to decrease exposure to fine particles in the air.

Proactive care can prevent severe respiratory complications.

Your Partner in Pet Health

At Advanced Veterinary Medical Center, we prioritize your pet’s respiratory health. By recognizing and addressing symptoms early, you can improve your pet’s quality of life and prevent long-term complications.

For expert diagnostics and treatment of pet respiratory conditions, contact us today.