Yes, Pets Can Get Asthma too! What You Need To Know

Asthma is a challenging condition to deal with for millions of people worldwide. Unfortunately, our furry little friends can suffer from asthma too. If asthma is left untreated, it can cause life-threatening complications that can leave your pet in a dangerous situation. Airborne particles such as spores, cigarette smoke, air fresheners, pesticides, and other particles can trigger an asthma attack. As responsible pet owners, we need to understand the major signs that our pet is suffering from asthma:

• Excessive and long stretches of panting with exaggerated expansion and contraction of the chest
• Consistently out of breath 
• Increased coughing and wheezing 
• Decreased appetite and fatigue 
• Pale or blue gums (if your pet has blue gums, you need to take them to the vet immediately) 

The best way to help a pet with asthma is to focus on prevention:

• Avoid smoking near your pet 
• Frequently clean the carpet or place their bed on wooden or tile floors 
• Reduce or eliminate the usage of air fresheners and deodorizers around the house 
• Avoid burning wood or turning on the fireplace 
• Use dust-free cat litter for cats 
• Bathe your pet regularly 
• Regularly clean your home 

Although asthma can be a difficult condition to deal with, prevention is truly the key to ensuring your pet lives a comfortable and healthy life. You may need to make some adjustments to you and your pet’s lifestyle, but your pet will have a much easier and peaceful time.

Asthma Concerns? Talk To Our Experienced Vets At Rye Hill Veterinary Center

Asthma can be difficult for your pet to deal with. Our experienced vets at Rye Hill Veterinary Center in the Fort Smith area can handle it. Every time you enter our doors, you’ll see a friendly and familiar face ready to welcome you to our clinic. Our excellence in customer service and patient care will make you feel appreciated and cared for throughout your time in our office. Contact us to schedule an appointment!