Coughing is a common problem in dogs and occasionally can occur in cats as well. The most common cause of dog coughing is infectious tracheobronchitis – a.k.a. kennel cough. You can read more aboutkennel cough symptomsand treatment in a previous article I wrote. The problem with a cough is that there are many different things that can cause it in dogs and cats. The seriousness of it can also vary widely, from minor irritation to life threatening illness.

The following are the most common causes of cat and dog coughing

1. Infection – Kennel cough falls into this category. Heartworm, lungworm and fungal infections can also cause coughing in dogs and cats. While kennel cough is found everywhere, the others on this list are regional. Contact your veterinarian to discuss whether you live in an area where these can be found.
2. Allergy – Feline asthma is the most common cause of cat coughing. People often think their cat is trying to throw up. It is helpful to take a video of the episode, so that when you visit your veterinarian it can help them determine what is actually happening. Dogs can also cough from allergies.
3. Anatomic Anomaly – Small breed dogs will often have a problem with cartilage of the windpipe. The cartilage is weak and collapses with exertion or excitement. Larger dogs can develop laryngeal paralysis, which initially can been recognized as a harsh increase in the sound of breathing, but can become a cough or gag.
4. Heart Disease – Dogs with congestive heart failure will develop a cough. Cats will not usually cough when in heart failure. The cough is a result of fluid building up in the lungs because the heart is not circulating the blood properly. The cough can sometimes be seen before a dog collapses. This is very serious and needs to be seen by a veterinarian immediately.
5. Cancer – Cancer can either start in the lung, or more commonly, spread to the lung from another part of the body (metastasis). Read more aboutCancer Symptoms in Dogs.

What Should I Do if my dog or cat is coughing?

Cats and dogs that are coughing should be seen by a veterinarian for acomplete examination.A puppy or kitten that is coughing should also be seen for their standardpuppy shots or kitten shots(a.k.a. vaccinations). Your veterinarian can recommend diagnostic tests based on what is most likely causing your dog’s or cat’s coughing. This can include x-rays, fluid washes of the windpipe to look for abnormal cells, and endoscopic examination. Keeping your pet away from other animals, resting them, and humidifying their air are simple things that may help until you see your veterinarian.

If your cat or dog is coughing, pleasecontact usto schedule an appointment as soon as possible.

Yours in health,

Dr. Kent Morley