Pet Asthma

Asthma is a debilitating condition, impacting about 300 million people globally. You might not know, but it’s also a common issue for your pet. In addition, asthma is a traumatizing condition that could cause life-threatening complications if left untreated.

It’s helpful to know asthma symptoms and contact Connolly Animal Clinic P.C, in Florence, AL, if you suspect your pet may suffer from this condition. Here are the symptoms, triggers, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of pet asthma.

Pet Asthma

Symptoms

To catch your pet's asthma, you must look for glaring signs of struggle. Explanations of what you should look for are in the paragraphs below. Speak to a veterinarian about your pets' health and wellness as soon as possible.

Excessive Panting 

Pets normally pant when they’re hot or exhausted because they don’t have many sweat glands. This symptom shouldn’t scare you if it’s happening when you’re exercising or in hot weather. If your pet pant heavily and for long, even in normal conditions, you should contact us immediately. Look for wide-mouth breathing and heavy chest movement, too.

Difficulty Breathing

Symptoms like wheezing, coughing, and being out of breath are asthma signs. These symptoms might accompany colds and flu, but your furry friend might have asthma if they're persistent. Consult Connolly Animal Clinic P.C, in Florence, AL, immediately for a diagnosis and care if your pet shows these symptoms.

Reduced Energy

Your pet might suffer a shortage of energy due to insufficient oxygen. As a result, your pet might not handle extended walks and object to going for walks. Consult us if your pet becomes reluctant to exercise.

Pale Gums

If your pet’s gums look pale or blue, seek medical assistance. This symptom shows a potentially severe asthma attack and can cause significant complications if left untreated. In addition, if your pet has been showing other asthma symptoms, it’s essential to examine their gums for this condition.

Thanks to various treatment options, most asthmatic pets can live a long, healthy life if you follow our directions.

Common Triggers

You may be doing things that could cause your pets’ asthma, be aware of what you put into the air. For example, those with an affinity to candles could cause significant air pollution. These common allergens might include:

  • Air pollution
  • Household cleaners
  • Mold and pollen spores
  • Cat litter, particles, or dust
  • Airborne fertilizers or pesticides
  • Heavy deodorizers, perfumes, or air fresheners
  • Smoke from tobacco products, cooking, or fires

Diagnosis

Visit us for a confirmed diagnosis if you suspect your pet has asthma. Yet, there are no direct pet tests, but we can confirm the diagnosis through various trials and physical exams.

Bronchial mucus samples, blood work, X-rays, and more tests help us determine the cause of your pet’s symptoms. In addition, other health conditions like obesity, respiratory infections, or heartworms are similar to pet asthma symptoms.

Treatment

After we confirm the diagnosis, we work out a treatment plan for your pet. For example, we may use an inhaler to administer medications for a mild case. This tactic will help relieve symptoms and reduce the severity of attacks. Steroids and antihistamines can also be prescribed to reduce inflammation within the breathing system.

Prevention

Removing allergens from your house is simple! First, avoid smoking near your pet and limit your use of fire. Moreover, use natural cleaners to keep your home allergen-free. Finally, keep windows open for as much as possible, or invest in a fan to keep the air moving. As more fresh air filters through your home, the less pollution you will inevitably live around.

Contact Connolly Animal Clinic P.C, in Florence, AL, For Pet Asthma Treatment

At Connolly Animal Clinic P.C, in Florence, AL, our veterinarian will diagnose your pet’s symptoms and tailor the perfect treatment plan. Contact us if you notice any signs your pet might be experiencing.