Pet owners may be concerned when they notice their pets coughing. A cough can indicate nothing more than a passing irritation, or it could signal a serious underlying condition. Occasional coughing is not a cause for concern, but persistent or chronic coughing should prompt a visit to our Stanton Pet Hospital team. Here is our list of the top causes of coughing in pets and how to manage the problem.

#1: Respiratory infections in pets

Respiratory infections caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi are common reasons for coughing in pets. Bacteria and viruses are highly contagious among pets and spread easily through shelters, boarding facilities, dog parks, and daycares. Fungal infections are less common but more serious when they occur; however, they are not contagious from pet to pet. Treatment is supportive and aimed at the offending microorganism.

Canine infectious respiratory disease complex (CIRDC) is the term used to describe infectious coughing in dogs and encompasses many different pathogens. In fall 2023, more cases of CIRDC were reported than usual, and some of them failed to respond to the usual treatment, progressing to serious deep lung infections and sometimes death. Research is underway to determine if a new pathogen is at fault, or if something else has changed to cause an uptick in serious respiratory cases.

#2: Asthma and chronic bronchitis in pets

Chronic coughing may be attributed to asthma, which is common in cats, or chronic bronchitis, which is common in dogs. Both conditions result in chronic inflammation in the airways and an ongoing cough that may be exacerbated by airborne allergens or irritants. Pets with these inflammatory diseases typically require lifelong management with inhalers and other anti-inflammatory measures.

#3: Heart conditions in pets

Heartworm disease, transmitted through mosquito bites, can affect dogs and cats. Infected cats may show no symptoms at all, or they may develop severe respiratory inflammation. Infected dogs can develop a cough months or years into their disease when the worms have caused the heart to enlarge and push on the trachea, or when the heart begins to fail. Other heart conditions, such as cardiomyopathy, may cause similar symptoms if they lead to congestive heart failure, which causes fluid to build up in or around the lungs. Heart conditions can be managed with medications.

#4: Collapsing trachea and laryngeal paralysis in dogs

Small breeds, such as Chihuahuas and Yorkshire terriers, may be prone to tracheal collapse as they get older. This condition causes a distinctive honking cough, especially when the pet becomes excited, overheated, or stressed. A similar condition called laryngeal paralysis can occur in large-breed dogs and periodically obstruct the airways. Surgery is sometimes needed for these conditions, along with medical therapy.

#5: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD):

GERD can cause stomach acid to flow into the esophagus, resulting in an inflammation called esophagitis that can produce a chronic cough, gagging, or regurgitation of food and water. GERD is common in short-nosed (i.e., brachycephalic) breeds and pets with other gastrointestinal problems. Treatment includes antacids and diet changes.

#6: Cancer in pets

Cancer of the lungs, heart, or airways can show up as a cough. Cancer that occurs elsewhere in the body that spreads, or metastasizes, frequently travels to the lungs and causes lesions or fluid buildup and a subsequent cough. Treatment depends on the cancer type and stage.

What to do if your pet starts coughing

If your pet develops a new cough that does not resolve in a few days, we recommend seeking veterinary care. Although many infectious coughs have viral causes that go away on their own, others can get worse if left untreated or can signal a different underlying problem. When a cough is accompanied by other signs of illness, such as lethargy, difficulty breathing, or poor appetite, call our team right away.

To diagnose a cough, our veterinarians perform a complete physical examination. Tests to help determine the underlying cause may include:

  • Blood work
  • Urine fungal test
  • Nasal or conjunctival swab and culture
  • Chest X-rays

Vaccines and coughing in pets

Several vaccines are available to protect dogs and cats from common respiratory pathogens. The FVRCP vaccine protects cats from several respiratory diseases, while the DAPP, kennel cough, and canine influenza vaccines protect dogs. Pet owners should know that vaccines do not completely prevent these infections, but can reduce disease severity. Talk to our veterinary team to see which vaccinations are recommended for your furry pal.

If coughing plagues your four-legged friend, don’t wait to seek veterinary care. Contact our Stanton Pet Hospital team to determine the underlying cause and get your pet on the road to recovery.