Coughing, sneezing, wheezing—it’s always concerning when your pet sounds off. While occasional respiratory noises may be normal, persistent or severe symptoms can signal more serious health concerns that require veterinary attention. At Woodland Springs Veterinary Hospital in Fort Worth, Texas, we’re here to help you understand what’s normal, what’s not, and how to respond when your pet is having trouble breathing.

In this guide, we’ll explore:

  • Common causes of respiratory symptoms in pets
  • When to seek veterinary care
  • Diagnosis, treatment, and preventive strategies

By the end, you’ll feel more confident recognizing symptoms—and know exactly when to reach out for help.

What’s Causing Your Pet’s Respiratory Symptoms?

Respiratory issues can range from minor irritations to signs of a serious medical condition. Below are the most common causes of breathing trouble in pets.

Coughing in Pets: When to Be Concerned

Coughing is one of the most common respiratory symptoms, especially in dogs. It can stem from a range of conditions:

Contact your vet if your pet:

  • Coughs for more than a week
  • Struggles to breathe or has blue/pale gums
  • Loses energy or appetite along with the cough

Sneezing in Pets: Not Always Innocent

An occasional sneeze may be nothing—but repetitive or intense sneezing could point to:

  • Upper Respiratory Infections (URIs) in Cats – These are especially common in shelters and multi-cat households. ASPCA Pro’s guide to feline URIs offers helpful insight.
  • Foreign Objects – Grass, dust, or debris may irritate the nasal passages.
  • Dental Disease – Untreated oral infections can travel upward into the sinuses.
  • Environmental Allergies – Just like in dogs, allergens can trigger sneezing fits.

Veterinary attention is warranted if:

  • Sneezing is constant or worsening
  • Nasal discharge is thick, yellow/green, or bloody
  • Breathing seems labored or your pet is lethargic

Wheezing in Pets: Take It Seriously

Wheezing—often a high-pitched, whistling noise—can indicate narrowed airways or inflammation:

  • Feline Asthma – A chronic respiratory condition that causes inflammation and constriction of the airways. Learn more from Cornell’s Feline Health Center.
  • Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) – Flat-faced breeds like Bulldogs and Pugs are especially vulnerable to this condition. Explore BOAS in depth.
  • Pneumonia or Bronchitis – Serious infections that can lead to oxygen deprivation if not treated promptly.

Contact your veterinarian immediately if:

  • Wheezing is increasing
  • Breathing becomes difficult or gums turn pale/blue
  • Your pet appears panicked, tired, or withdrawn

Reverse Sneezing: A Startling but Often Harmless Event

Reverse sneezing, commonly seen in small and brachycephalic dogs, can sound dramatic but is usually benign. It’s often caused by:

  • Sudden excitement or pulling on the leash
  • Dust, pollen, or household chemicals
  • Mild upper respiratory irritation

Call your vet if:

  • Episodes are frequent or prolonged
  • Your pet appears frightened or has trouble recovering
  • Symptoms interfere with sleep or activity

Snoring: When It’s More Than a Quirk

While some pets are just noisy sleepers, snoring can signal an issue in some cases:

  • Flat-Faced Breeds – These pets often snore due to naturally narrow airways.
  • Obesity – Excess weight can put pressure on the respiratory system.
  • Chronic Allergies or Infections – These may lead to congestion and poor airflow.

Have your pet evaluated if:

  • Snoring worsens over time
  • Your pet struggles to breathe while awake
  • It’s accompanied by wheezing, coughing, or fatigue

Know the Signs of a Respiratory Emergency

If your pet is struggling to breathe, immediate care is critical. Watch for these red flags:

  • Open-mouth breathing, especially in cats
  • Blue or pale gums
  • Collapsing during or after coughing
  • Gasping, wheezing, or rapid shallow breathing

For a full list of symptoms, refer to the AAHA’s Respiratory Distress Guide.

How We Diagnose and Treat Respiratory Problems

At Woodland Springs Veterinary Hospital, we use a comprehensive approach to identify the cause of your pet’s symptoms:

Our Diagnostic Process

  • Physical exam: We listen for abnormal lung sounds or upper airway obstructions
  • X-rays: To evaluate lung health, tracheal structure, and heart size
  • Bloodwork: To check for infection or inflammation
  • Heartworm screening: Essential for dogs in our region
    View the 2024 Heartworm Map

Treatment Options We May Recommend

Treatment depends on your pet’s diagnosis and may include:

  • Antibiotics or antivirals for respiratory infections
  • Steroids or antihistamines to manage allergies or asthma
  • Bronchodilators to open airways
  • Surgical intervention in advanced BOAS cases
  • Long-term medication for chronic conditions like feline asthma or congestive heart failure

Prevention Tips to Protect Your Pet’s Breathing

You can take simple steps at home to reduce the risk of respiratory issues:

  • Avoid cigarette smoke, dust, and strong fragrances
  • Use air purifiers or humidifiers for pets prone to dry air irritation
  • Maintain a healthy weight for your pet
  • Stay current on respiratory vaccines like Bordetella and canine flu
  • Book regular checkups for early disease detection

Breathe Easier with Woodland Springs Veterinary Hospital

Breathing difficulties in pets can be frightening, but you don’t have to face them alone. Whether it’s a mild seasonal issue or a more serious diagnosis, our team at Woodland Springs Veterinary Hospital is here to help with personalized, compassionate care.

Schedule an appointment today if your pet is showing signs of respiratory discomfort. We’re just a call away—and committed to helping your pet breathe easy again.