Visit Your Local Animal Clinic if Your Pet is Coughing or Sneezing
You have most likely experienced a common cold at some point throughout your life. Did you know that dogs, cats, and other domesticated animals can also catch a cold? At Belleview West Animal Hospital in Littleton, Colorado, we have treated countless furry friends suffering from colds and other illnesses at our animal clinic.
What Causes Animals to Cough or Sneeze?
There are many reasons why animals develop coughing or sneezing symptoms. They are mostly due to upper respiratory infections from airborne viruses and bacteria, or your pet has inhaled something that is irritating their nasal passages or lungs. Some dogs and cats can even experience allergic reactions to certain things such as bug bites, mold, perfumes, household cleaners, dust, or pollen.
With a typical cold, symptoms will usually subside within a couple of weeks. Prescription antibiotics, antiviral medications, and antihistamines are often used in more severe infections. Your veterinarian will know the proper medication and dosage that will help your pet get back to normal. Other times, your pet starts to sneeze because they have something lodged in their nasal cavity. In this case, treatment requires manual surgical removal of the item.
Underlying health conditions can also cause your pet to start coughing or sneezing. These can include heart disease, cancer, lung disease, asthma, parasite infections, and bronchitis. Beware of the following symptoms, as these could indicate a more severe health condition:
- Wheezing
- Coughing up blood
- Fever
- Sudden weight loss or loss of appetite
- Difficulty breathing
- Excessive, thick, yellow, or green discharge produced in the nasal passages
- Bluish gums
- Lack of physical activity
- Repeated sneezing or coughing
It is important to schedule a visit with your veterinarian as soon as possible to receive a proper diagnosis and discuss the best treatment options for your best friend.
Call Belleview West Animal Hospital Today
Belleview West Animal Hospital in Littleton, CO is here to help whether your pet needs a routine check-up, is starting to cough or sneeze, or is suffering from other ailments. Dr. Ross Barnard and his team are dedicated to your pet’s health and your peace of mind. We strive to offer high-quality, comprehensive veterinarian services, including dermatology, microchipping, dental care, puppy and kitten care, spaying and neutering, and vaccinations. Call our animal clinic today at (303) 979-1090 or contact us via our website to schedule your best friend’s next vet appointment!