Respiratory distress is a very dangerous condition that can be life threatening without quick medical intervention. If you’re aware of the warning signs of respiratory distress, and know what to do if your pet is experiencing trouble breathing, it will be easier for you to stay calm and get your pet the help he needs.
What is Respiratory Distress?
Respiratory distress is a symptom of a serious underlying medical condition, illness, allergy, or other problem. Your pet can develop respiratory distress due to asthma or pneumonia, or anaphylactic shock from a life-threatening allergy. If your pet is choking on food or a foreign object, he may go into respiratory distress as he struggles to breathe due to the physical obstruction in his throat. Congestive heart failure, infections, and laryngeal paralysis can also cause respiratory distress.
Signs & Symptoms of Respiratory Distress
Call the closest veterinary hospital to let them know you’re on your way if you notice any of these symptoms of respiratory distress in your pet:
- Rapid breathing
- Continuous panting
- Signs of distress and being unable to settle down
- Standing with the elbows pointed outward and the neck stretched out and extended
- Abnormal or exaggerated movement of the chest or abdomen
- Blue, white, or gray gums
- Collapse or loss of consciousness
- Breathing with the mouth open (cats only)
What to Do to Save Your Pet’s Life
Every second counts when your pet is struggling to breathe. As soon as you notice signs of troubled breathing, you should take your pet to the closest veterinary hospital. Even if your pet’s breathing has improved by the time you arrive, he should still be examined and evaluated for an underlying illness, allergy, choking hazard, or medical condition. Acting quickly can reduce the risk of stroke, brain injury, and death.
Keep the phone number for the closest veterinary hospital in your phone or on hand in case of emergency. If you notice signs of respiratory distress in your pet, call the veterinary hospital to let them know you’re on your way.
