- Antibiotics.
- Cough suppressants.
- Steroids (oral and inhalant using an aerodawg device)
- Bronchodilators.
- Sedatives.
Dogs with collapsed tracheas sound like they need to be taken immediately to the veterinary clinic and may not survive to see the next day. But in reality, many dogs have healthy lives for years despite having a collapsed trachea (windpipe). Only at its most severe stage is the condition life-threatening.
A collapsed trachea can be managed with medication, lifestyle changes, and occasionally surgery even though there is no cure. Continue reading to find out what you can do to make your dog feel better.
Similar to a vacuum hose, the trachea is a flexible tube with rings of cartilage running down its length to give it structure and keep it open. When some of the cartilage weakens and the tube flattens as a result of your dog inhaling air, it results in tracheal collapse. According to Joao Felipe De Brito Galvao, MV, MS, a board-certified specialist in small animal internal medicine at VCA Arboretum View Animal Hospital in Downers Grove, Illinois, this narrows the airway, making it challenging for your dog to breathe normally and causing coughing spells.
Which Dogs are Prone To Collapsed Trachea?
It usually affects small, toy and miniature dog breeds. They include:
The condition typically manifests between the ages of 6 and 8 The situation doesn’t improve, and symptoms grow worse over time.
Signs Of Collapsed Trachea In Dogs
Coughing is the first indication that your dog’s trachea has collapsed. Your dog will occasionally cough, and the coughing will get worse with activity, excitement, food, or liquids. A coughing attack can also be brought on by fragrances, smoking near your dog, humid conditions, and hot weather.
Here are other signs:
A collapsed trachea is an irreversible condition. Tracheal collapse that is severe can be a serious, potentially fatal issue. Continued episodes of excruciating coughing, respiratory distress, and panic can harm you more. Although there is no cure, you can manage it and keep your dog’s quality of life high. You can start making changes to your small-breed dog’s health and way of life right away.
Signs and Symptoms of Collapsed Trachea in Dogs
A dry cough that sounds like a honking goose is the most obvious symptom of a collapsed trachea. Other symptoms include:
FAQ
How can I treat my dogs collapsed trachea at home?
Add Glucosamine-Rich Foods. Your dog’s diet can benefit from the addition of chondroitin and glucosamine supplements to support his cartilage. Alternatively, to support your dog’s own trachea, feed beef trachea. The cartilage in beef trachea is rich in glucosamine and chondroitin.
Can a dog recover from a collapsed trachea?
About 70% of dogs who are only given medical care will make some progress. About 75% of dogs improve after surgical placement of rings. Older dogs (6 years or older) and canines with laryngeal or bronchial disease experience more complications and have worse long-term prognoses.
How long can a dog live with a collapsing trachea?
After being diagnosed, a dog with a collapsing trachea may live for up to two years. With surgical procedures, a dog’s life expectancy with this condition can be increased by two to four years or more. By taking extra care to assist them in treating their symptoms, you can extend the life of a dog.
What makes tracheal collapse worse in dogs?
The most typical clinical symptom is a chronic, dry, and harsh cough. It is sometimes described as a ‘goose honk’ cough. When anxious, when there is pressure on the trachea, such as from a collar, when it is hot or humid outside, or right after eating or drinking, the cough may get worse.