Why Is My Pet Coughing? When a Cough Needs Veterinary Attention

An occasional cough may not be cause for alarm, but persistent, worsening, or unusual coughing deserves attention. At Switzer Veterinary Clinic in Alpena, Michigan, our knowledgeable team can help determine what’s behind your pet’s cough and whether treatment is needed.

Why Do Dogs and Cats Cough?

Coughing is a natural reflex that helps clear irritants, mucus, or other material from the airways. However, coughing in dogs and coughing in cats can also be associated with conditions affecting the respiratory system, heart, or other areas of the body.

Possible causes include:

• Respiratory infections: Viral or bacterial infections can cause coughing, sometimes along with sneezing, nasal discharge, fever, or decreased energy.
• Airway irritation: Smoke, dust, allergens, or other inhaled irritants may trigger coughing.
• Tracheal or airway problems: Conditions that narrow, inflame, or affect the airways can lead to recurring coughs.
• Parasites: Certain parasites can affect the lungs or cardiovascular system and cause coughing.
• Heart disease: An enlarged heart or fluid buildup associated with heart problems can sometimes lead to coughing or changes in breathing.
• Other underlying conditions: Pneumonia, masses, and other illnesses involving the lungs or chest can also cause a cough.

Because so many conditions can produce similar symptoms, it isn’t always possible to tell what’s wrong based on the sound of a cough alone.

What Other Symptoms Should You Watch For?

A cough can provide important clues when you consider what else is happening with your pet. Pay attention to when the coughing occurs, how often it happens, and whether your pet seems otherwise well.

Signs that may accompany a pet respiratory illness or another medical problem include:

• Nasal or eye discharge
• Sneezing or wheezing
• Rapid, labored, or noisy breathing
• Reduced appetite
• Lethargy or weakness
• Exercise intolerance
• Gagging or retching
• Pale or bluish gums

Some of these symptoms may indicate that your pet needs prompt veterinary attention. Breathing difficulty, collapse, or blue-tinged gums should always be treated as an emergency.

Could My Pet’s Cough Be Related to Heart Disease?

Sometimes. Although coughing has many potential causes, it can occur with certain heart conditions, particularly in dogs. Other possible signs of heart disease include tiring easily, breathing faster than usual while resting, weakness, collapse, or a swollen abdomen.

Cats with heart disease may not cough at all. Changes in breathing, lethargy, weakness, or reduced activity may be more noticeable. Any significant change in your pet’s breathing warrants veterinary attention.

When Should I Call My Alpena Veterinarian About a Cough?

A single cough after drinking water or sniffing something dusty may resolve quickly. However, it’s a good idea to contact your veterinarian if your pet’s cough:

• Persists or keeps returning
• Becomes more frequent or severe
• Occurs during exercise or at night
• Is accompanied by lethargy, appetite changes, or other symptoms
• Develops in a very young, older, or medically vulnerable pet

Your veterinarian may recommend an exam and, depending on the findings, diagnostic testing to determine whether the cough is coming from the respiratory system, heart, or another source.

Let’s Get to the Bottom of Your Pet’s Cough

If coughing persists, changes, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, Switzer Veterinary Clinic can help identify the cause and recommend appropriate care. Call (989) 356-4880 to book an appointment for your pet.