Understanding and addressing respiratory problems in dogs and cats is essential, especially during the cold months when these conditions tend to worsen. These ailments can manifest themselves in various ways, including persistent cough, difficulty breathing, frequent sneezing, runny nose, or even changes in breathing sounds. These symptoms can be indicative of a variety of ailments, from the common cold to more serious illnesses such as bronchitis or pneumonia.
In dogs and cats, a diverse flora of organisms, such as Pasteurella multocida and Bordetella bronchiseptica, normally reside in the respiratory tract without causing symptoms. However, specific infections can arise when respiratory defenses are compromised, for example, by a virus or by specific situations such as heart failure.
In small breed dogs, tracheal collapse is common and is characterized by a chronic cough and difficulty breathing, so it is necessary to pay special attention to these furry dogs.
Prevention of respiratory problems in dogs and cats
Prevention plays a crucial role in the respiratory health of dogs and cats. Maintaining a clean, allergen-free environment, ensuring good ventilation, avoiding exposure to harmful fumes and chemicals, and providing a balanced diet and regular exercise are important steps. During the cold months, it is especially important to protect animals from low temperatures and sudden changes in weather, as these conditions can aggravate respiratory problems.
In the event that, despite prevention, respiratory conditions appear, early detection and intervention are key to ensuring effective recovery and preventing complications. Additionally, regular visits to the veterinarian for checkups can help identify and treat respiratory problems before they worsen.
Common Causes of Respiratory Problems in Dogs and Cats
The causes of respiratory problems in dogs and cats are diverse and are not always easy to detect. We recommend that, as soon as you notice some symptoms, you go to an integrative veterinary professional to perform the relevant tests.
Respiratory infections in dogs and cats
Respiratory infections are one of the main sources and can be caused by various viruses, bacteria or fungi. These infections, such as bronchitis or pneumonia, are more common in animals with weakened immune systems or in high-stress environments. As with many other diseases, it is highly recommended that the dog or cat enjoy a balanced diet, a healthy environment and, if necessary, be provided with natural supplements that strengthen its immune system.
Environmental allergies
Allergies can also develop respiratory problems, causing inflammation in the airways and making it difficult to breathe. Even though the environmental allergies in dogs and cats They usually appear in the spring months, with the peak of pollen, we recommend being aware of other factors and elements that could generate allergic reactions. These can be mites in the home, exposure to irritants such as tobacco smoke or chemical contaminants in cleaners, etc. Even sudden changes in temperature and humidity can trigger or worsen respiratory problems. Let's take all these situations into account to offer our dogs and cats a safe and healthy environment.
Respiratory problems caused by parasites
Likewise, parasites such as lungworms or heartworms can invade and damage the lungs or airways, causing cough, difficulty breathing, and other symptoms. It is essential that, as those responsible for the health of our dog or cat, we administer antiparasitics regularly. At Herbalist for animals we recommend that you opt for the natural antiparasitics, since they have the same effectiveness, but avoid the possible side effects derived from chemical antiparasitics.
Holistic view of respiratory problems
There are also experts which, from a holistic point of view, analyze respiratory problems in a different way. Especially in the case of long-term breathing problems that do not respond to regular medication, it is important to discover the underlying cause.
Thus, according to acupuncture, the lung provides respiration and energy distribution. It also plays an important role in maintaining healthy skin and coat. The lungs are the contact between the body and the environment, and are weakened by emotions such as sadness.
Additionally, the lungs have a close relationship with the colon. Therefore, respiratory problems are often accompanied by dermatological problems and/or colon problems such as diarrhea, gas, etc.
Snoring in dogs and cats
Another problem, usually of little importance, is snoring. That a dog or cat snores can have several causes, being overweight the most common. But it can also be due to an allergy, a cold, dental problems, something getting into your nose (a seed, a pebble...) or even a polyp. The best thing, again, is to take him to the vet. For our part, we offer you a BIO essential oil formula with bronchodilator, mucolytic and expectorant properties for use in a diffuser. By smell, it will help your dog's breathing and reduce snoring.
Natural treatments and products for respiratory problems in dogs and cats
At Herbalist for Animals we strive to offer you natural options that help promote the health of your furry animals, both physically and emotionally.
Strengthens your immune system
As he told us Gemma Hervas, integrative veterinary in Barcelona, medicinal mushrooms, mycotherapy, is fantastic for strengthening the immune system. Gemma maintains that it is difficult to find another natural product with this action and this power.
La BIO mushroom mix for infections, for example, is an immune system stimulant that helps fight viral and allergic diseases, so it can be a great ally for respiratory problems in dogs and cats.
Another mushroom-based product that you can find in our herbalist is cordyceps powder It is a mushroom used in traditional Chinese medicine to increase energy and treat respiratory diseases that also helps improve the animal's immune system.
Of course, we recommend that you always choose quality medicinal mushrooms with BIO certification.
BIO expectorant syrup for dogs and cats
In Herbalist for animals you will find a expectorant syrup for dogs and cats which thins the mucus in the respiratory tract and prevents mucus from getting stuck in the airways thanks to its antitussive and expectorant properties.
The syrup is completely natural and is certified BIO. It is made from thyme extract, primrose root and licorice root. In addition, it is indicated for both dogs and cats, although the dosage will have to be adapted to the weight of the animal.
Propolis for respiratory problems in dogs and cats
Propolis is a natural compound manufactured by bees that is not only beneficial for people, but also for dogs and cats. Today, propolis is a powerful and beneficial natural supplement that is used in medicine and veterinary medicine, as it can provide many health benefits, especially with regard to immunity and inflammation, which is why it becomes a great ally to combat respiratory problems.
In our herbalist you will find Anibio Propolis, some propolis and echinacea capsules to strengthen the immune system of dogs. This product is a great prevention tool, so we recommend administering it 2 or 3 times a year for several weeks to give that extra boost to your furry's immune system.
