Coughing, sneezing, wheezing, reverse sneezing, snoring, and more- what does it mean?

Cough, Sneeze, or Something More? Understanding Your Pet’s Respiratory Sounds

Your pet’s breathing can be surprisingly informative. A quiet snore may just be a quirky sleep habit. But what about a deep cough, a wheeze, or a sudden reverse sneeze? These sounds may be your pet’s way of saying, “Something’s not right.”

At Liberty Veterinary Hospital in Liberty Township, Ohio, our AAHA-accredited team is here to help you decode the noise. We offer full-service diagnostics, treatment, and support for respiratory concerns- all under one roof and tailored to your pet’s unique needs.

Let’s explore what those respiratory sounds might mean, when to worry, and how we can help.

When Breathing Speaks Volumes: Understanding the Sounds

Coughing, sneezing, wheezing, snoring- they’re not just background noise. They’re often signs of irritation, inflammation, or underlying illness.

For instance, a dry cough could signal kennel cough or tracheal collapse, while a wet, congested cough might indicate heart disease, bronchitis, or pneumonia. These conditions can range from self-limiting to life-threatening, and catching them early can significantly improve outcomes.

Sneezing after sniffing pollen is no big deal- but frequent sneezing with discharge, lethargy, or decreased appetite could point to a feline upper respiratory infection. These infections are common in cats, especially in multi-cat households or shelters, and often require medication and supportive care.

And then there’s the more dramatic stuff. Wheezing may be tied to asthma or bronchitis- especially in cats, where feline asthma often goes undiagnosed until the pet experiences acute distress. Reverse sneezing, which sounds like a loud, snorting inhale, can be alarming but is usually harmless and related to excitement, allergens, or breed anatomy.

Snoring, while common in some breeds, can also signal more serious airway concerns. In flat-faced (brachycephalic) breeds like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Shih Tzus, snoring may indicate structural issues like elongated soft palates or stenotic nares- hallmarks of BOAS– which can impair quality of life if left untreated.

Common Sounds and What They May Mean

This chart is not exhaustive, but it’s a helpful starting point.

When to Be Concerned: Signs That Require Prompt Care

Some sounds are worth monitoring. Others mean it’s time to call us.

If you notice any of the following, your pet may be in respiratory distress or experiencing a worsening condition:

• Labored or open-mouth breathing, especially if accompanied by effort or noise
• Blue or pale gums, which can indicate oxygen deprivation
• Coughing that worsens at night or after exercise, which is often linked to heart conditions
• Nasal discharge with blood or thick pus, a sign of possible infection, foreign body, or trauma
• Sudden lethargy, collapse, or changes in appetite or behavior, which can signal something systemic

If you’re ever in doubt, refer to the AAHA respiratory emergency guide or contact our team. We’re available to support many emergencies during our normal business hours, but please call us first: (513) 755-9700. Acting quickly can save valuable time and help us get your pet the care they need.

What Happens at Your Appointment

A pet who coughs at home and then acts normal at the clinic? We see that all the time. That’s why we always recommend recording the symptoms at home- videos help us understand what you’re hearing.

During your visit, we may recommend:

• Chest X-rays to assess the lungs, heart size, and airway patterns
• Bloodwork to screen for infection, inflammation, anemia, or parasites like heartworm
• Rhinoscopy or tracheoscopy using a tiny camera to visualize the nasal passages or trachea, especially if obstructions, growths, or anatomical issues are suspected
• Advanced imaging (CT or echocardiogram, via referral) if heart failure, tumors, or other complex issues are a concern

We’ll combine test results with your observations to create a full picture. Whether the issue is mild or complex, we’ll build a treatment plan that fits your pet and your family.

Treatment: From Infections to Airway Disorders

Treatment depends on what we find, but common interventions include:

• Antibiotics or antivirals for bacterial or viral infections
• Anti-inflammatories or bronchodilators to reduce airway swelling and open up breathing in asthma or bronchitis
• Surgical options for conditions like BOAS or nasal polyps that require physical correction
• Heart medications such as diuretics, ACE inhibitors, or beta blockers to manage heart disease symptoms
• Supportive care including oxygen therapy, nebulization, IV fluids, or hospitalization when needed

We’ll also talk about in-home strategies to support respiratory health, such as:

• Using humidifiers to moisten dry air
• Switching to harnesses to avoid tracheal pressure from collars
• Elevating food and water bowls to ease breathing and swallowing in pets with airway issues
• Managing allergens and irritants in the home, especially for pets with asthma or chronic bronchitis

Prevention Starts with Proactive Care

Many respiratory issues are preventable- or easier to manage- with early care. Here’s how we help you stay ahead of the curve:

• Routine visits to catch changes in breathing or behavior before they escalate
• Vaccinations against kennel cough and other infectious diseases
• Heartworm prevention with monthly medications, especially important in Ohio’s mosquito-heavy seasons
• Reducing environmental triggers with hypoallergenic cleaning products, air purifiers, and allergy control tips

Small, consistent actions can dramatically reduce your pet’s risk of developing respiratory disease- or catch problems early when treatment is most effective.

Helping Your Pet Breathe (and Sleep) Better

Chronic respiratory issues don’t just impact breathing. They affect sleep, energy, appetite, and even personality. You may notice your dog is reluctant to play or your cat hides more often. These quiet changes matter.

It’s not just about fixing a cough; it’s about helping your pet feel like themselves again.

If your pet’s breathing seems different- or just not quite right- schedule a visit with our team. We’ll help you sort out what’s normal, what needs monitoring, and what needs treatment.

We’re Here When You Need Us

You don’t need to wait for a crisis to reach out.
Liberty Veterinary Hospital is here for early questions, sudden symptoms, and everything in between. Our AAHA accreditation reflects our commitment to gold-standard care, and our experienced team is ready to help you and your pet every step of the way.

We’re proud to support pets and their people with trustworthy care in Liberty Township and beyond.