Your dog or cat may be panting but that doesn't necessarily mean that their breathing is labored. Labored breathing means that your pet is struggling to breathe. Below are Fort Oglethorpe vets explaining what labored breathing in dogs and cats is and what to do if your pet is having difficulties breathing.
What Is Labored Breathing In Dogs And Cats?
To be able to recognize when your dog or cat is having trouble breathing it's important to distinguish between breathing quickly (tachypnea) and struggling to breathe (dyspnea).
Tachypnea
Tachypnea is the fast breathing we all experience when exercising. If you take your dog out for a run, they may pant and breathe quickly but this does not mean that your dog is having difficulties breathing.
Dyspnea
Dyspnea is the term for labored breathing in cats and dogs. This term means that your animal is having difficulties taking breaths, or is short of breath.
Labored breathing is a veterinary emergency that requires immediate action, but how can you tell if your pet is struggling to breathe properly? When cats and dogs are experiencing breathing difficulties the symptoms they will exhibit may be different.
What Are The Signs Of Labored Breathing In Dogs?
When a dog is having difficulty breathing you are likely to notice one or more of the following symptoms:
Exercise intolerance (most notably, when you take them for a walk)
Persistent cough, especially at night
An increased respiratory rate > 40 bpm
Stretching the neck out to breathe
An unusually hoarse-sounding bark
Sighs of anxiety such as restlessness or pacing
Constant panting
Sitting up with a wide stance to breathe (front legs/elbows spread out)
Belly heaving in and out more as they breathe
Foaming or frothing at the mouth
Blue-tinged gums
What Does Labored Breathing In Cats Look Like?
It's very common for cats to hide when they aren't feeling well which can make spotting the signs of labored breathing challenging for cat owners. That said when a cat is experiencing difficulties breathing it may show one or more of the following symptoms:
Hiding in a quiet place
Increased respiratory rate
Body hunched close to the ground with neck extended forward
Hacking or persistent coughing
Open mouth breathing
Blue-tinged gums
Foaming or frothing from the mouth
What Should I Do If My Pet Is Having Difficulties Breathing?
If your dog or cat is displaying any signs of breathing difficulties it's time to head to the vet! Labored breathing should always be considered a veterinary emergency. To help your pet breathe easier your vet will need to diagnose the underlying condition that is causing your pet's breathing issues.
What Causes Labored Breathing In Dogs And Cats?
Cats and dogs aren't always susceptible to the same conditions but some of the most common health issues that can lead to breathing difficulties in either type of animal include:
Asthma
Infectious diseases
Growths in the upper airway
Heart failure
Cancer
Metabolic issues
Pneumonia
Exposure to toxins
Trauma
How Is Labored Breathing In Pets Treated?
After your pet has had a thorough examination the treatment prescribed by your veterinarian will depend upon the underlying cause of your pet's breathing difficulties. Some treatments for labored breathing include:
Oxygen therapy
IV fluids
Steroids to reduce airway inflammation
Bronchodilators to expand airway and increase airflow
Diuretics to treat fluid in lungs
Additional diagnostic testing may be required to pinpoint the precise cause of your pet's breathing difficulties. Diagnostic testing could include chest or abdominal x-rays and electrocardiogram or echocardiogram to check heart function.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.
If your cat or dog is struggling to breathe normally urgent care is required. Contact our Fort Oglethorpe vets or visit us right away. Our experienced vets have experience in the diagnosis and treatment of labored breathing in cats and dogs.
