Coughing
Occasional coughing may not be serious, but persistent, severe, or productive coughing (coughing up fluid or blood) should warrant concerns. For dogs, the common causes of coughing are kennel cough, allergies, heart disease, heartworm disease, or pneumonia.
For cats, it can be caused by asthma, heart disease, Feline viral respiratory infections, hairballs, lungworms, or foreign objects.
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Common Questions For Dogs
What causes my dog to cough?
Dogs cough for various reasons, some of which are harmless, while others may signal a serious health issue. Common causes include:
Kennel cough: This contagious illness causes a distinct, dry, honking cough, especially in dogs who have recently been around other dogs.
Heart disease: A soft, persistent cough, particularly when lying down or exercising, may indicate a heart problem.
Tracheal collapse: Particularly in small breeds, this results in a "goose-honk" sound, often triggered by excitement or pulling on a leash.
Respiratory infections: Infections like pneumonia or canine influenza can cause wet, phlegmy coughing.
Allergies: Environmental irritants like smoke or pollen may trigger a dry, hacking cough.
When to see a vet
You should be concerned if your dog's cough persists for more than a few days or if it's accompanied by symptoms such as:
Difficulty breathing or wheezing
Lethargy and loss of energy
Loss of appetite or weight
Fever or nasal discharge If your dog seems to be coughing at night, especially with a soft or persistent cough, it could indicate a more serious condition, like heart disease.
Why does my dog cough after excitement or pulling on the leash?
If your dog starts coughing after getting excited or pulling on a leash, it might be due to tracheal collapse, which is common in small breeds. The cough sounds like a "goose-honk" and is caused by the trachea collapsing under pressure. Switching to a harness can help reduce the pressure on your dog’s throat and prevent the cough.
Can allergies cause coughing in dogs?
Yes, allergies can cause your dog to cough, especially if they are exposed to irritants like pollen, smoke, or dust. This type of cough is usually dry and hacking. If your dog’s coughing continues, it’s worth getting them checked for potential allergens that could be causing discomfort.
Is my dog’s cough related to heart disease?
A soft, persistent cough that worsens at night or during physical activity can be a sign of heart disease. This type of cough occurs because the heart’s reduced function causes fluid to build up in the lungs. If you notice this pattern in your dog's coughing, consult your vet for a heart check-up
Common Questions For Cats
Should I be worried about my cat coughing?
Occasional coughing in cats can be normal, particularly if it's related to expelling hairballs. Cats groom themselves constantly and sometimes ingest enough fur that they need to cough it up. However, if your cat's coughing is frequent or persistent, it can indicate a more serious underlying condition such as asthma, infections, or even foreign objects lodged in the throat. If your cat’s coughing lasts more than a couple of days or is accompanied by other symptoms like lethargy or wheezing, it’s best to visit a vet​.
Why is my cat coughing but not bringing up a hairball?
Many cat owners confuse coughing with gagging, often assuming that their cat is trying to expel a hairball. If your cat is coughing but not producing a hairball, it may be due to other issues like asthma, respiratory infections, or even an obstruction in the throat or airways. Hairballs are usually expelled after a few coughs or retches, so if your cat seems to cough without success, it’s a good idea to consult your vet to rule out more serious causes.
What causes a cat to cough and wheeze?
Coughing combined with wheezing is a red flag for respiratory issues like asthma or allergic reactions. Asthma in cats is triggered by allergens such as dust, smoke, or pollen, which inflame the airways and cause both coughing and wheezing. Wheezing can also indicate fluid buildup or other blockages in the lungs. If your cat is wheezing, it’s essential to seek veterinary care quickly.
Could my cat have asthma?
Yes, frequent coughing in cats can be a sign of asthma, especially if it's accompanied by wheezing, open-mouth breathing, or sudden bouts of coughing fits. Asthma in cats is a chronic condition that inflames the airways, making it harder for them to breathe. If your cat is coughing regularly, particularly after exposure to dust or allergens, you should consult your vet. Asthma is manageable with proper treatment, including medications and environmental control​.
When to see a vet
You should take your cat to the vet if they are coughing consistently for more than two days, or if the coughing is accompanied by other symptoms such as lethargy, vomiting, a change in appetite, or breathing difficulties. Serious signs that require immediate attention include coughing with blood, rapid or open-mouth breathing, blue-tinged lips, or collapse.
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