In this article on our site we will talk about tracheitis in dogs, a pathology of the upper respiratory tract with various causes that will cause inflammation of the trachea, producing symptoms that we can identify in our dog.
This disease may require veterinary treatment, although we can also take measures at home to promote recovery. It is therefore important to diagnose it in time to prevent it from getting worse and because it is important to differentiate it from other cough-generating pathologies, such as heart problems. So keep reading and discover what is tracheitis in dogs and how to treat it
What is tracheitis in dogs and its causes?
Tracheitis in dogs consists of a inflammation produced in the trachea due to causes that may or may not be infectious.
- Causes of infectious tracheitis in dogs: we find mycoplasma, Bordetella or herpesvirus.
- Causes of non-infectious tracheitis in dogs: correspond to irritations due to inhalation of gases or fumes, allergies, continuous cough, pulling of the strap, cold, or even the tube used through the trachea in surgery.
Although it can affect any dog, those that have suffered some previous erosion in the area such as that which can be caused by eating a bone or any food with edges, those that bark excessively, etc. They will be more likely to suffer from tracheitis. An unremitting cough caused by a heart condition can be the cause of tracheitis in older dogs. In contrast, tracheitis in small dogs, such as Yorkshire or Chihuahua, may be due to tracheal collapse.
Non-infectious tracheitis usually resolves spontaneously, as soon as the action of the irritating agent subsides. On the other hand, the infectious ones will require veterinary treatment, since they can get complicated and cause pneumonia.
Finally, aa infectious tracheobronchitis or kennel cough is a very contagious ailment among dogs, so it is essential to treat it as soon as possible.
Symptoms of tracheitis in dogs
The quintessential symptom of canine tracheitis is unproductive, sudden and dry cough Any rubbing on the trachea, such as the one that can producing the leash during the walk, triggers it. The simple touch with our hand, too. A repetitive or sudden cough can also cause nausea and vomiting
This cough can be triggered at specific times when the dog gets nervous or makes some physical effort. Because the cough is similar to that seen in cardiac disorders, the veterinarian should perform careful auscultation to assess heart function. In addition, the dog may appear tired and restless With infectious tracheobronchitis, in addition to cough, purulent nasal discharge may appearin puppies.
Treatment for tracheitis in dogs
Tracheitis in dogs is cured. As we have said, the inflammation inside the trachea causes coughing and this, in turn, irritates the trachea, maintaining the condition. Therefore, it is important that treatment is aimed at controlling this cough.
To treat tracheitis in dogs, antitussives, antibiotics and anti-inflammatoriesOf course, the medication must be prescribed by the veterinarian. In the case of chronic cough in dogs, it is recommended to perform chest X-rays and intratracheal washes to obtain cells from the trachea with which to perform cytology and culture. Lavages should be done with the dog sedated using a catheter or taking a sample from the trachea directly with a needle and syringe.
Tips for recovery from tracheitis in dogs
Among the home remedies that we can use to improve a dog with tracheitis are the following, aimed atavoid irritation of the area :
- It is better to offer soft or mashed food.
- No bones or hard foods that could injure an already damaged trachea.
- Use a harness instead of a collar to avoid rubbing against the trachea.
- Keep the dog in a warm room temperature.
- Avoid cold as much as possible, as it dries mucous membranes and, consequently, causes coughing.
- Likewise, for the same reason, it is important to humidification.
- Vahos can help and we can make them by opening the hot water tap in the bathroom with the door closed to take advantage of the steam.
- Of course, avoid possible environmental irritants such as tobacco smoke, aerosols, perfumes or dust.
