Many pet parents wonder if their dog or cat's panting means that their pet is experiencing labored breathing. While this can be the case, labored breathing actually means that the pet is struggling to breathe. Our Bartlett vets and team share more about labored breathing in dogs and cats.
Labored Breathing VS Breathing Quickly
In order to be able to recognize when your dog or cat is having trouble breathing it's important to distinguish between breathing quickly (tachypnea) and actually struggling to breathe (dyspnea).
Tachypnea
- Tachypnea is the fast breathing we all experience when exercising. If you take your dog out for a run, they may pant and breathe quickly but this does not mean that your dog is having difficulties breathing.
Dyspnea
- Dyspnea is the term for labored breathing in cats and dogs. This term means that your animal is actually having difficulties taking breaths, or is short of breath.
If your pet is experiencing labored breathing is considered to be a veterinary emergency and requires immediate action, but how can you tell if your pet is struggling to breathe properly? When cats and dogs are experiencing breathing difficulties the symptoms they will exhibit may be different.
How To Spot Labored Breathing in Dogs
If your pooch is having difficulty breathing (labored breathing) you are likely to notice one or more of the following symptoms:
- Exercise intolerance (most notably, when you take them for a walk)
- Persistent cough, especially at night
- An increased respiratory rate > 40 bpm
- Stretching the neck out to breathe
- An unusually hoarse sounding bark
- Sighs of anxiety such as restlessness or pacing
- Constant panting
- Sitting up with a wide stance to breathe (front legs/elbows spread out)
- Belly heaving in and out more as they breathe
- Foaming or frothing at the mouth
- Blue-tinged gums
Signs of Labored Breathing in Cats
Cats will often hide when they aren't feeling well which can make spotting the signs of labored breathing challenging for cat parents. Nonetheless, when a cat is experiencing difficulties breathing they will typically exhibit one or more of the following symptoms:
- Hiding in a quiet place
- Increased respiratory rate
- Body hunched close to the ground with neck extended forward
- Hacking or persistent coughing
- Open-mouth breathing
- Blue-tinged gums
- Foaming or frothing from the mouth
What To Do If Your Dog or Cat Has Labored Breathing
If your dog or cat is displaying any signs of breathing difficulties it's time to head to the vet! Labored breathing should always be considered a veterinary emergency. In order to help your pet to breathe easier your vet will need to diagnose the underlying condition that is causing your pet's breathing issues.
Common Causes of Labored Breathing in Pets
Cats and dogs aren't always susceptible to the same conditions but some of the most common health issues that can lead to breathing difficulties in either type of animal include:
- Asthma
- Infectious diseases
- Growths in the upper airway
- Heart failure
- Cancer
- Metabolic issues
- Pneumonia
- Exposure to toxins
- Trauma
Treatment for Pets Struggling With Labored Breathing
After your pet has had a thorough examination the treatment prescribed by your veterinarian will depend upon the underlying cause of your pet's breathing difficulties. Some treatments for labored breathing include:
- Oxygen therapy
- IV fluids
- Steroids to reduce airway inflammation
- Bronchodilators to expand airway and increase airflow
- Diuretics to treat fluid in lungs
Additional diagnostic testing may be required in order to pinpoint the precise cause of your pet's breathing difficulties. Diagnostic testing could include chest or abdominal x-rays and electrocardiogram or echocardiogram to check heart function.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.
If you think that your dog or cat is struggling to breathe properly it's time to head to the vet! Contact our Bartlett vets right away or visit your nearest animal emergency clinic to recieve urgent care for your pet.
Looking for a vet in Memphis?
We're always accepting new patients, so contact our veterinary hospital today to book your pet's first appointment.Related Articles View All
Navigating Pet Care - Pet Wellness Plans vs Pet Insurance
Pet insurance and pet wellness plans can both help you safeguard your pet's health, but which one should you get? Our Bartlett vets delve into the differences to help you make an informed decision.
Pet Parent's Guide to Dog Boarding Vaccination Requirements
Will your pup be staying in a dog boarding facility while you are away from home? If so it's important to understand what shots your dog needs to be boarded. Our Bartlett vets are here to explain.
The Benefits of Enrolling Your Pet in a Wellness Plan
Your veterinarian offers Pet Wellness Plans but you just don't know if they are worth the money. To help you make an informed decision our Bartlett vets explain some of the key benefits to consider.
Removing Dog Teeth - Dog Dental Extractions
Like people, dogs sometimes have a damaged or decayed tooth that needs to be pulled to relieve pain and restore good oral health. Here, our Bartlett vets discuss what to expect if your dog needs a dental extraction.