If you’re a worried pet parent whose furry friend has been diagnosed with a collapsed trachea, you’re probably wondering about surgical options. The short answer is yes, dogs with collapsed tracheas can have surgery – but it’s not always the first choice of treatment, and it’s not right for every dog.
As someone who’s researched this condition extensively, I want to share everything you need to know about collapsed trachea surgery for dogs Let’s dive into the details of this common respiratory condition and explore when surgery might be the right choice for your beloved pet
Understanding Collapsed Trachea in Dogs
A collapsed trachea occurs when the cartilage rings that support your dog’s windpipe weaken and flatten, making it difficult for them to breathe normally. This tube connects your dog’s throat to their lungs, and when it collapses, it can cause serious breathing problems
Which Dogs Are Most Affected?
This condition is particularly common in small breed dogs, affecting approximately 1 in 20 small breed dogs The breeds most commonly affected include
- Yorkshire Terriers
- Pomeranians
- Chihuahuas
- Toy Poodles
- Pugs
However, it’s important to note that any dog can develop this condition, especially as they age. Middle-aged and older dogs are more susceptible, though some dogs can show signs at a very young age.
Common Causes of Collapsed Trachea
The exact cause isn’t always clear, but several factors can contribute:
- Genetic predisposition: Many experts believe there’s a hereditary component
- Obesity: Excess weight puts additional strain on the respiratory system
- Heart disease: Can worsen symptoms of collapsed trachea
- Environmental irritants: Smoke, dust, and allergens can aggravate the condition
- Use of collar instead of harness: Pressure on the neck area can worsen the condition
Signs and Symptoms of Collapsed Trachea
Recognizing the symptoms early can help ensure your dog receives appropriate treatment. Here are the most common signs to watch for:
- Distinctive cough: A dry, honking cough that sounds similar to a goose honk
- Breathing difficulties: Especially during exercise or excitement
- Exercise intolerance: Your dog may tire quickly during physical activity
- Gagging or choking: Particularly when eating or drinking
- Wheezing or noisy breathing: Most noticeable during inhalation
- Bluish gums or tongue (cyanosis): In severe cases, indicating oxygen deprivation
- Fainting spells: Due to lack of oxygen in extreme cases
These symptoms often worsen in certain situations, including:
- Hot and humid weather
- Exposure to extreme temperatures
- Pressure on the neck
- Eating and drinking
- Excitement or stress
- Intense exercise
Diagnosing a Collapsed Trachea
If you suspect your dog has a collapsed trachea, a veterinarian will perform several tests to confirm the diagnosis:
- Physical examination: Your vet will check your dog’s breathing and may gently press on the trachea to trigger a coughing episode
- X-rays (radiography): To visualize the trachea and identify any narrowing
- Fluoroscopy: A real-time X-ray that allows vets to observe the trachea during breathing
- Tracheal endoscopy: A small camera inserted into the trachea to directly view any abnormalities
Treatment Options for Collapsed Trachea
Treatment approaches range from conservative management to surgical intervention, depending on the severity of your dog’s condition.
Non-Surgical Management
For mild to moderate cases, your vet may recommend:
- Weight management: Keeping your dog at a healthy weight reduces strain on the respiratory system
- Harness instead of collar: To avoid putting pressure on the neck
- Medications: Cough suppressants, anti-inflammatories, bronchodilators, and sometimes antibiotics
- Environmental modifications: Reducing exposure to irritants like smoke, dust, and strong fragrances
- Limiting exercise: Adjusting your dog’s activity level to prevent overexertion
- Stress reduction: Using calming products and techniques to reduce anxiety
When Is Surgery Necessary?
Surgery becomes a consideration when:
- Conservative treatments aren’t effective
- The collapse is severe and causing significant respiratory distress
- Your dog’s quality of life is severely affected
- There are recurrent respiratory infections
- The condition continues to worsen despite medical management
Surgical Options for Dogs with Collapsed Trachea
If your vet determines that surgery is appropriate for your dog, there are several surgical approaches available:
1. Tracheal Stent Placement
This is one of the most common surgical interventions for collapsed trachea. The procedure involves:
- Inserting a mesh-like sleeve (stent) into the trachea
- The stent expands to reinforce the trachea and keep it open
- It’s generally less invasive than other surgical options
- Can be performed through the mouth without external incisions
This procedure has shown good success rates, with one study showing stainless steel, self-expanding rings having a 96% success rate.
2. Tracheal Ring Prosthesis
This more traditional surgical approach involves:
- Placing C-shaped prosthetic rings around the outside of the trachea
- The rings are bonded to the trachea to form a rigid tube
- This procedure is typically more successful for collapses in the portion of the trachea outside the chest
- Newer techniques use stainless steel, self-expanding rings
3. Laser Surgery
Some veterinary surgeons may use laser-assisted techniques to:
- Remove damaged tracheal tissue
- Improve airflow
- Reduce irritation and inflammation
Potential Risks and Complications of Surgery
Like any surgical procedure, tracheal surgery carries certain risks:
- Laryngeal paralysis: Affecting the dog’s voice box
- Airway swelling: Can occur post-surgery
- Tissue death: In rare cases, tracheal tissue may die
- Pneumonia: Risk of developing respiratory infection
- Bleeding: Particularly with stent placement (seen in about 4% of cases)
- Infection: General surgical risk
- Stent migration: The stent may move from its original position
Post-Surgery Care and Management
If your dog undergoes surgery for collapsed trachea, proper post-operative care is essential:
- Follow-up visits: Regular check-ups with your veterinarian
- Medication management: Administering prescribed medications as directed
- Activity restriction: Limiting physical activity during recovery
- Monitoring: Watching for signs of complications or breathing difficulties
- Continued use of harness: Avoiding any pressure on the neck
- Weight management: Maintaining optimal weight
Long-Term Outlook for Dogs with Collapsed Trachea
The prognosis for dogs with collapsed trachea varies based on several factors:
- Severity of the collapse: More severe cases generally have a guarded prognosis
- Response to treatment: Some dogs respond well to medical management alone
- Age and overall health: Younger, otherwise healthy dogs tend to do better
- Surgical success: Many dogs experience significant improvement after surgery
- Ongoing management: Continued care is usually necessary even after surgery
It’s important to understand that while surgery can significantly improve symptoms and quality of life, it may not completely cure the condition. Many dogs will still require some level of ongoing management.
Is Surgery Right for Your Dog?
The decision to pursue surgery for a dog with collapsed trachea should be made carefully after considering:
- Your dog’s overall health: Some dogs may not be good surgical candidates
- Severity of symptoms: How much the condition affects quality of life
- Response to medical management: Whether less invasive approaches have helped
- Age of your dog: Older dogs may have more surgical risks
- Financial considerations: These specialized surgeries can be expensive
- Post-operative care: Your ability to provide necessary aftercare
Emergency Care for Dogs with Collapsed Trachea
If your dog with collapsed trachea experiences a severe breathing crisis, emergency care may be needed. Some pet parents choose to keep portable oxygen kits at home for emergency situations, especially for dogs with severe cases.
These kits can provide supplemental oxygen while transporting your pet to an emergency veterinary facility, potentially saving valuable time in a crisis.
Final Thoughts
Collapsed trachea can be a scary diagnosis, but with proper management and treatment, many dogs live happy, comfortable lives despite this condition. While surgery is definitely an option for dogs with collapsed trachea, it’s typically reserved for more severe cases or when other treatments haven’t been effective.
If you suspect your dog has a collapsed trachea, the first step is always to consult with your veterinarian. They can provide a proper diagnosis and help you determine the best course of treatment for your furry friend.
Remember, every dog is unique, and what works best for one may not be right for another. Working closely with your veterinary team will help ensure the best possible outcome for your beloved pet.
Have you had experience with a dog with collapsed trachea? What treatments worked best for your furry friend? I’d love to hear your experiences in the comments below!
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FAQ
What is a collapsed trachea in dogs?
A collapsed trachea in dogs is a progressive condition, meaning it gets worse as time goes on. Tracheal collapse makes it difficult for dogs to breathe and get air to their lungs. Here’s what you need to know about collapsing trachea, including causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
Is surgery for tracheal collapse in dogs successful?
Surgery for tracheal collapse in dogs is more successful if the collapse was in a part of the trachea that was external to the dog’s chest. In some cases, this procedure can clear the obstructions causing irritation, but won’t cure the condition. Surgery comes with risks of complications. One such risk is paralysis of the dog’s larynx (voice box).
What should I do if my dog has a tracheal collapse?
Consult with your veterinarian before any surgical procedure to learn about post-surgical care for your dog, or to learn about other treatment options that may be available. Canine surgery for tracheal collapse in dogs is a specialized procedure that should only be performed by a trained veterinary surgeon.
What is the prognosis of collapsing trachea in dogs?
Collapsing trachea is a progressive disease, as the tracheal cartilage can continue to deteriorate over time despite treatment. Even pets who have surgery for the condition often need medications for life. The prognosis will depend on how well your dog responds to treatment.
Are small dogs at risk for tracheal collapse?
While tracheal collapse can occur in any breed or size of dog, small dog breeds are most at risk for developing a collapsing trachea, including: Tracheal collapse is most frequently diagnosed in middle-aged or older dogs, but it can also be seen in younger dogs.
How can you tell if a dog has a tracheal collapse?
You can literally see the trachea move and collapse as the dog breathes. If an X-ray is like a picture, fluoroscopy is like a movie. Tracheoscopy involves looking inside the trachea with a tiny camera under general anesthesia. It is considered the best technique. This video shows a Pomeranian exhibiting a cough caused by tracheal collapse:
Can a dog with collapsed trachea go under anesthesia?
Yes, a dog with a collapsed trachea can undergo anesthesia, but it presents increased risks. A veterinarian must perform a thorough pre-anesthetic evaluation to assess the dog’s overall health, especially their heart and lungs, and create a tailored anesthesia plan. Management includes pre-oxygenation, careful and gentle intubation, and close monitoring of airway patency and oxygen levels to minimize risks and ensure a safe recovery.
How much does a collapsed trachea surgery cost for a dog?
Cost. $5000-$6000, depending on imaging modality used.
Are dogs with collapsed trachea suffering?
Yes, dogs with collapsed trachea are suffering, experiencing discomfort, stress, and a diminished quality of life due to the chronic, progressive condition that makes breathing difficult and can lead to panic states. Symptoms like a persistent “goose honk” cough, gagging, difficulty breathing, and exercise intolerance are signs of their suffering. While proper veterinary management can alleviate symptoms and help dogs live a happier life, the condition itself causes ongoing suffering.
Is tracheal collapse surgery worth it?
Surgery is not a substitute for ongoing medical management, but it can help prevent respiratory emergencies. Dogs with additional underlying medical conditions, such as heart disease, may have a poorer long-term outcome.