Understanding Why Dogs Cough: Causes and Solutions

I. Sudden Onset

1. Sudden Coughing

      Shortterm coughs often result from transient irritation of the throat or trachea, such as from using unsuitable牵引ropes, exposure to industrial odors, or the scent of chili or insecticides.

      So, what should you do when faced with such a situation? Immediate action and avoidance are key. Prompt treatment and prevention are crucial to minimize secondary issues and reduce the risk of developing more chronic respiratory conditions. If persistent coughing persists, it's important to seek medical attention promptly.

2. Viral Infection

      Chronic, persistent coughs can be quite complex. Dogs that haven't been properly vaccinated or tested for antibodies are more susceptible to respiratory viruses, such as canine distemper virus, parainfluenza virus type 1, and canine adenovirus. These types of coughs can be persistent and severe, leading to poor prognoses and challenging treatments.

3. Bacterial and Fungal Infections

      Common respiratory infections include pneumonia caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus hemolyticus, Bordetella, Haemophilus influenzae, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and Chlamydia pneumoniae. Less common are fungal pneumonia and pulmonary螨 disease.

4. Parasitic Infections

      Parasites like Dirofilaria, lung capillary worms, Toxoplasma, and other parasites can lead to respiratory system diseases. Maintaining clean pet environments, regular deworming, and following vaccination schedules are vital.

5. Foreign Bodies

      Foreign body pneumonia occurs when nonresorbable and irritating foreign objects enter the respiratory tract, leading to a series of respiratory diseases.

6. Cold

      The common cold, a complex syndrome of upper respiratory infection symptoms like headache, fever, runny nose, eye discharge, sneezing, sore throat, and cough, is often referred to simply as "cold" by pet owners. However, the complexity of the condition, including types like windcold, windheat, summerdampness, and epidemic cold, should not be underestimated. External and internal coughs can also arise. If the cold progresses to bronchitis, pneumonia, or other severe complications, it can be lifethreatening, so it's crucial to take the cold seriously.

7. Cardiovascular Disease

      Elderly animals may develop heartrelated coughs due to obesity and circulatory issues. Proper nutrition management and regular health checks are essential for older pets.

It's important to note that these conditions can occur singly, in combination, or as secondary or concurrent issues. Since pets cannot express their discomfort, it's vital to treat them actively and appropriately based on their specific situations.