The trachea, or wind pipe, is that part of your pet's anatomy that allows air to flow from its mouth to the lungs. In some pets, the trachea will lose its strength and collapse while they are trying to breath. This is because the cartilage around the trachea weakens and loses the support it needs to function properly.
How Tracheal Collapse Affects Your Pet
Tracheal collapse is a common pet health concern in most all toy breed dogs, and it usually does not present any serious problems. During an attack, your pet will have a hard time breathing, but the condition typically corrects itself after just a few seconds. However, there are times when your pet may not be able to recover on its own. In this case, your dog can feint or collapse. If this occurs, you need to rush your pet to a veterinarian. With the proper treatment and medication, a vet will be able to revive your beloved dog in no time.
Common Symptoms of Tracheal Collapse
Common Symptoms of Tracheal Collapse in Pets: Gasping for Air, Reverse Sneezing, Continuous Coughing, Difficulty Breathing, Labored Breathing, Blue Gums and/or Tongue, Lethargy, Inability to Run and Play and Feinting or Collapse. The above symptoms are some of the most common signs of tracheal collapse; however, your pet may only exhibit one or two. As stated above, most dogs recover from these breathing episodes in just a few seconds. If your dog has a prolonged attack and cannot recover though, you need to rush it to a veterinarian immediately.
Treatments for Tracheal Collapse
Many cases of tracheal collapse are treated with such medicines as antibiotics, cough suppressants, bronchodilators and corticosteroids. However, if your pet's condition is severe, surgery may be necessary. Additionally, a weight control diet may help reduce attacks. A few things you can do to help your pet include using a harness rather than a collar, avoiding respiratory irritants and trying to keep your pet calm.
Breeds Affected
A Tracheal Collapse is a condition that mainly affects toy breed dogs. It is rarely found in cats or any other animals. However, under the right conditions, some cats may experience it. While any toy breed dog can develop tracheal collapse, the following breeds are the most common. Breeds commonly affected by Tracheal Collapse: Pomeranians, Yorkshire Terriers, Chihuahuas,Toy Poodles, Pugs, Papillons and Maltese.
Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.