If your Pomeranian is coughing, it can be a sign of various underlying issues, some more serious than others. Coughing in Pomeranians isn’t uncommon and can range from a mild, temporary condition to something more chronic or severe that requires medical attention. Here’s an overview of possible reasons your Pomeranian might be coughing and what steps you can take.
Common Causes of Coughing in Pomeranians
1. Kennel Cough
This highly contagious respiratory disease is known for its distinctive dry, hacking cough. It can be contracted from other dogs at parks, kennels, or anywhere dogs congregate.
2. Collapsed Trachea
This is a common condition in small breeds like Pomeranians. It involves the weakening of the tracheal rings in the windpipe, leading to a characteristic goose honk cough, especially when excited or pulling against a collar.
3. Heart Disease
Congestive heart failure can cause coughing as a result of fluid buildup in the lungs, typically seen in older Pomeranians.
4. Allergies
Allergies to dust, pollen, smoke, or other environmental irritants can cause a Pomeranian to cough as the body tries to clear the irritants from the throat and air passages.
5. Infections
Bacterial and viral infections, like canine influenza or pneumonia, can cause severe coughing along with other symptoms such as fever, lethargy, and nasal discharge.
6. Parasites
Parasites such as heartworms or lungworms can be a cause of coughing. These are more serious and require immediate veterinary attention.
Steps to Address Coughing in Your Pomeranian
1. Veterinary Diagnosis
If your Pomeranian is coughing persistently, the first step is to get a thorough examination by a vet. Diagnostics might include chest X-rays, a heartworm test, and blood work to determine the cause of the cough.
2. Medications
Depending on the diagnosis, your vet may prescribe medications. For instance:
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Antibiotics for bacterial infections.
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Cough suppressants or anti-inflammatories.
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Heart medications if the cough is related to heart disease.
3. Management of Allergies
If allergies are the cause, identifying and reducing exposure to allergens is key. Air purifiers in the home can help, along with regular cleaning of your dog’s bedding and play areas.
4. Diet and Exercise
Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and regular exercise can help reduce the strain on your Pomeranian’s heart and lungs, potentially reducing coughing episodes.
5. Surgery
In severe cases, such as advanced tracheal collapse, surgical intervention might be necessary to correct the problem.
6. Avoid Collars
For dogs with tracheal issues, it’s advisable to use a harness instead of a collar to avoid pressure on the throat, which can provoke coughing.
Monitoring and Ongoing Care
Coughing can be managed with the right care and treatment, but it’s important to closely monitor your Pomeranian:
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Keep track of the cough’s frequency and intensity. Note if it happens more during certain activities or times of day.
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Watch for other symptoms that could indicate worsening conditions, such as changes in breathing patterns, blue-tinged gums, or reduced activity levels.
7. Environmental Modifications
Creating a clean, smoke-free, and dust-free environment can help minimize cough-inducing irritants. This includes avoiding the use of strong chemicals or cleaners around your Pomeranian, which can irritate their respiratory system.
8. Humidifiers
Using a humidifier in your home can add moisture to the air, which helps soothe and open your dog’s airways, reducing coughing, especially in dry conditions.
9. Stress Reduction
Stress can exacerbate respiratory issues, leading to more frequent coughing spells. Providing a calm and stable environment, with regular routines and less chaotic surroundings, can help reduce stress in your Pomeranian.
10. Regular Vet Check-ups
Ongoing veterinary care is crucial, especially for chronic conditions like heart disease or collapsed trachea. Regular check-ups allow for timely adjustments in treatment and early detection of any new or worsening symptoms.
11. Proper Hydration
Ensuring that your Pomeranian stays well-hydrated is important, especially if they are taking medications like diuretics for heart conditions. Adequate hydration helps keep the respiratory tract moist and can ease coughing.
Monitoring Progress and Adjustments
As you manage your Pomeranian’s cough, keeping a detailed journal can be very beneficial. Document:
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The frequency and nature of the cough: Is it a dry cough, or does it sound wet? Does it occur mainly during specific activities like exercise or rest?
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Response to treatments: Note any changes in the cough’s frequency and severity in response to different medications or management strategies.
This record can provide your veterinarian with valuable information, enabling more tailored and effective treatment plans.
Seeking Specialist Care
If your Pomeranian’s cough does not improve with initial treatments, or if it worsens, seeking advice from a veterinary specialist might be necessary. Specialists such as cardiologists or internists can offer more advanced care and treatment options.
Recognizing Emergency Situations
It’s also vital to recognize when coughing indicates an emergency. Immediate veterinary care is required if you notice:
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Significant difficulty breathing or changes in gum color (e.g., blue, white, or very pale gums)
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Extreme lethargy or unresponsiveness
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Persistent coughing without relief, especially if it seems to cause distress
Conclusion
While a cough in your Pomeranian can sometimes be managed with simple adjustments at home, understanding when professional help is needed remains critical. By combining home management with professional veterinary care, you can ensure your Pomeranian receives the best possible support to manage or resolve their coughing and maintain a good quality of life. Always prioritize open communication with your vet, as they are your best resource in ensuring your Pomeranian’s health and well-being.