Asthma is a chronic lung condition that can make it difficult to breathe. While asthma is a condition that many humans have, pets can also suffer from it. While it can't be cured, you can manage pet asthma with the help of our team at Redlands Pet Clinic in Grand Junction, CO.
How Does Asthma Effect Pets?
When pets have asthma, symptoms are usually triggered by some sort of allergen. Breathing in the allergen causes an immune system reaction, leading to inflammation in the lungs. This can cause the lungs to swell and constrict and can cause mucus to enter the airways.
These symptoms can make it very difficult to breathe. Not only can it cause significant distress, but it can cause damage to the respiratory system if it isn't treated. While asthma in pets can be mild, symptoms often become more severe over time.
If you suspect that your pet has asthma, you should bring them to our vet clinic for a diagnosis as soon as possible.
What Can Trigger Asthma Symptoms in Pets?
Asthma is usually triggered by exposure to an allergen, but what kinds of substances can cause that kind of reaction in pets? While not all pets react to allergens in the same way, some common triggers for asthma symptoms include:
- Dust
- Pollen
- Mold spores
- Air pollution
- Cat litter
- Air freshener
- Perfume
- Household cleaning products
- Smoke
Our vet can help you identify the substances that trigger a reaction in your pet. If possible, you'll want to limit your pet's exposure to the allergen as much as possible.
What Are the Symptoms of Pet Asthma?
How can you tell if your pet has asthma? Animals that have asthma usually show symptoms after allergen exposure. This is sometimes referred to as an asthma attack. Some of the symptoms you're most likely to see include:
- Wheezing
- Difficulty breathing
- Heavy panting
- Frequent coughing
- Opening the mouth widely to breath
- Loss of appetite
- Low energy levels
- Coughing up mucus
- Pale or blue gums
An asthma attack can range from mild to severe. If your pet shows any of these symptoms, it may be best to contact a veterinarian. You may need to bring your pet to the vet clinic for treatment.
Talk to Our Veterinarian in Grand Junction, CO, about Pet Asthma
If you've noticed that your pet is wheezing or seems to have difficulty breathing, it's possible that your pet has asthma. While asthma can't be cured, it is something that you can manage with the help of a vet. We at Redlands Pet Clinic in Grand Junction, CO, can diagnose asthma in pets and help you to manage your pet's symptoms effectively. Call us at (970) 245-4060 for more information.
