Coughing in pets can be caused by various conditions, but one serious underlying issue could be heart disease. It’s important to understand when a cough might indicate a heart problem and what steps to take.
When to Be Concerned:
- Persistent or Worsening Cough: If your pet’s cough lasts for weeks or worsens over time, it could indicate heart disease.
- Coughing at Night or After Exercise: Heart-related coughs often occur when your pet is resting or after physical activity.
- Shortness of Breath or Laboured Breathing: If your pet appears to struggle for air, it’s a sign of potential heart trouble.
- Lethargy or Reduced Activity: Pets with heart disease may become more tired and less interested in play.
- Bluish or Pale Gums: A lack of oxygen due to heart disease can cause changes in gum colour.
Steps to Take:
- Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of when and how often your pet coughs, and if other signs like weakness or difficulty breathing appear.
- Schedule a Veterinary Checkup: A thorough exam, including heart auscultation (listening to the heart with a stethoscope), X-rays, and possibly an echocardiogram, can help diagnose the cause.
- Avoid Home Remedies: Over-the-counter treatments for coughs in humans can be harmful to pets.
- Follow Your Vet’s Advice: If heart disease is diagnosed, treatment may include medications to manage fluid buildup, blood pressure, and heart function.
- Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Proper diet, moderate exercise, and regular vet visits can help support heart health.
Coughing in pets should never be ignored, especially if it’s persistent or accompanied by other symptoms of heart disease. Early detection and veterinary intervention can make a significant difference in managing the condition and improving your pet’s quality of life.
