Snoring in dogs and cats is common, and usually should not worry you. These sounds occur when there is restricted airflow in the airways during sleep, causing the soft tissues in the throat to vibrate.
Factors such as sleeping position, overweight or the specific physical characteristics of certain breeds of dogs or cats influence snoring. However, a sudden increase in snoring or changes in its cadence or intensity can signal underlying health problems such as allergies, respiratory infections, dental problems, or even airway obstructions. Therefore, it is important to observe your dog or cat carefully and, if in doubt, consult with a veterinary professional to find out the cause and remedy it as soon as possible.
Why do dogs and cats snore?
As we have discussed, snoring in dogs and cats can be attributed to a variety of underlying causes, some of which are related to anatomical and physiological factors specific to each animal.
Firstly, the anatomy of the upper airway plays a crucial role in the generation of snoring. Breeds with short or flattened snouts, such as bulldogs, pugs, Persian cats and brachycephalics in general, have a facial conformation that can predispose them to snoring. This is because they usually have narrow nostrils, elongated soft palates or a trachea of reduced diameter, which can make it difficult for air to pass and generate vibrations in the tissues during breathing, thus producing the characteristic sound of snoring.
In addition to anatomy, certain physiological conditions can also contribute to snoring in animals. For example, the presence of inflamed tissue in the throat due to respiratory infections, allergies or foreign bodies can partially obstruct the airways, causing snoring. Additionally, being overweight can put pressure on the airways, which makes normal breathing even more difficult and can lead to snoring during sleep.
Another important factor to consider is the position in which the animals sleep. Some positions, such as lying on your back or with your head tilted back, can cause airway obstruction and increase the likelihood of snoring.
What should you do if your dog or cat snores?
When your dog or cat snores frequently, as we have said, the first recommended action is to schedule a veterinary consultation if the snoring is persistent or is accompanied by other symptoms such as difficulty breathing, coughing, sneezing or a runny nose.
Remember that, although snoring may be normal, it can also be an indicator of health problems, so it is important that you give them the attention they deserve.
Respiratory problems in dogs and cats
Snoring in dogs and cats can be a symptom of respiratory problems, which can become worse during the cold months. These problems can manifest in a variety of ways, including a persistent cough, difficulty breathing, and changes in breath sounds.
As always, prevention plays a crucial role, so it is vital to maintain a clean and allergen-free environment, ensure good ventilation, avoid exposing your dog or cat to harmful fumes and chemicals, and provide a balanced diet along with with regular exercise. During the cold months, protect your animals from low temperatures and sudden changes in weather and you will reduce the chances of them developing respiratory complications.
If despite all precautions, respiratory problems arise, early detection and intervention are crucial for a quick and definitive recovery.
Natural treatments for snoring
One of the most effective measures is for your dog or cat to maintain a healthy weight, since being overweight can increase the likelihood of snoring. Providing him with a balanced diet and enough regular exercise will help maintain his proper weight and improve his overall respiratory health. Remember that in Herbalist for animals we offer you consultation of natural nutrition remotely (by phone or online) that will allow you to ensure that you are offering your furry the diet he or she needs in his or her specific case.
In the case of snoring in dogs, we recommend another natural treatment for snoring: aromatherapy. Specifically, at Herbalist for animals we have developed a specific formula for snoring in dogs. This blend has several high-quality essential oils with organic certification that have bronchodilator, mucolytic and expectorant properties which help decongest the airways and reduce inflammation, which can reduce snoring. We recommend using this aromatherapy formula in a diffuser at a distance from the dog. We will explain it to you shortly in this video.
