"Understanding Canine Coughing and Gagging: An Examination by Rhiannon Koehler, DVM, MPH"
In the canine world, coughing and gagging can be signs of various health issues. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the common causes, symptoms, and treatment options for these conditions in dogs.
Veterinarians often prescribe Vetmedin (pimobendan) to slow the progression of heart disease into heart failure. However, heart disease and congestive heart failure (CHF) can also cause coughing and gagging in dogs due to fluid build-up in the lungs or pressure on the airways.
Kennel cough, a contagious respiratory infection, is another frequent cause of coughing and gagging. Characterized by a dry, honking cough followed by gagging, sometimes with mucus production, it is especially common among puppies, unvaccinated dogs, or those exposed to other dogs in kennels or parks. Treatment options range from cough suppressants to antibiotics like doxycycline in bacterial cases.
Throat irritation from foreign objects such as grass, fur, or small toys can trigger gagging as the dog tries to clear the airway. Tracheal collapse, mainly affecting small breeds, causes a honking cough and worsening respiratory distress, sometimes needing surgery.
Pneumonia and chronic bronchitis involve inflammation of the respiratory tract, often causing a wet cough and gagging due to airway swelling. Pneumonia especially requires prompt veterinary care and antibiotics.
Heartworm disease, a parasitic infection, can also cause coughing due to the presence of worms in the heart and lungs.
Lastly, dogs that eat or drink rapidly may cough or gag from food or water irritating their throat. This is often mild but persistent coughing during meals should prompt evaluation for swallowing or throat disorders.
Treatment depends on the cause: kennel cough may resolve spontaneously or need antibiotics; airway inflammation may require anti-inflammatory drugs; foreign body irritation often needs removal; heart and lung diseases need targeted therapy under veterinary guidance.
If your dog’s coughing and gagging persist, worsen, or come with other symptoms (lethargy, fever, difficulty breathing), prompt veterinary diagnosis and care are essential. Early intervention can significantly improve the chances of a successful outcome.
Remember, this article is intended to provide general information and should not replace professional veterinary advice. If you are concerned about your dog's health, always consult with a veterinarian.
[1] Bensky, M. (2020). Merck Veterinary Manual: Canine Respiratory Disease. Merck & Co., Inc. [2] Lulich, J. P., & Moore, A. G. (2018). Kirk's Current Veterinary Therapy XI: Small Animal Practice. Elsevier. [3] O'Neill, D. G., et al. (2018). Canine and Feline Respiratory Diseases. Elsevier. [4] Scott-Moncrieff, J., et al. (2018). Miller's Anatomy of the Dog. Elsevier.
- In the context of canine health-and-wellness, science plays a significant role in understanding, diagnosing, and treating various respiratory conditions in dogs, such as kennel cough, pneumonia, and heartworm disease, which can trigger coughing and gagging.
- When discussing health issues in dogs that manifest through coughing and gagging, science also aids in the development of medications, like Vetmedin (pimobendan), used to treat heart disease, and antibiotics like doxycycline, which are part of the treatment for bacterial kennel cough.
