If you’ve never experienced reverse sneezing in your dog before, the condition can be worrisome, but luckily, it’s not as scary as it sounds. Reverse sneezing in dogs occurs primarily and much less frequently in cats. Reverse sneezing in dogs is a fairly common breathing phenomenon and rarely affects them. Reverse sneezing, while harmless, can be very shocking for dog owners to witness, as it sounds more like a goose honk than a typical dog bark. Here’s what you need to know about reverse dog sneezing and what you can do to help stop it.
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What is reverse sneezing in dogs?
Medically, reverse sneezing is known as inspiratory paroxysm. This is caused by spasms in the larynx and soft palate.
It is called a “reverse sneeze” because the dog inhales air forcefully and rapidly. The air is expelled during the sneeze. The inhalation of air can be very forceful, causing some owners to rush to the emergency room.
Reverse sneezing in dogs can last from a few seconds to a minute or two. During an episode, the dog usually has an extended head and neck. Once the episode is over, the dog resumes normal behavior.
Smaller breeds, such as toy and beagle dogs, are more likely to reverse sneeze and may have episodes several times a day. Some dogs will experience reverse sneezing throughout their lives, while it may be an occasional event for others.
What causes reverse sneezing in dogs?
Reverse sneezing in dogs is caused by irritation in the throat, pharynx or laryngeal area. This can be caused by many factors. However, this cause is not uncommon.
For example, in some dogs it happens when they get excited or when they pull on their leash.
For some people, a sudden change in temperature – moving from a warm house to a very cold outdoor temperature – can also trigger sneezing.
It can also happen if they inhale irritants such as pollen or strong odors, or if they have allergies. Some dogs are more sensitive than others to perfumes, household cleaning products and similarly strongly scented items.
For this reason, chronic reverse sneezing should rule out any potential environmental triggers.
Reverse sneezing in dogs can also be caused by respiratory infections, postnasal drip, obstruction or inflammation of the nasal passages or excessive nasal overflow. Although less common, pneumonia, gastrointestinal disease, nasal tumors or dental disease may also be a cause, especially in older dogs without a history of reverse sneezing.
How to Treat Reverse Sneezing in Dogs
If reverse sneezing in dogs becomes a regular event, it’s best to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian for an evaluation. They may be able to narrow down any underlying causes and see if things improve. If you notice repeated sneezing or persistent episodes of bleeding or yellow snot, a veterinary exam should be performed as soon as possible.
For dogs, the vet will likely try to rule out conditions such as grass mange inhalation, collapsed trachea, kennel cough and respiratory infections. For cats, the veterinarian will want to look for feline asthma and upper respiratory infections.
Reverse sneezing in dogs is self-limiting and is usually treated without medication. Depending on the cause, your veterinarian may recommend antihistamines, but usually only in cases of allergies or chronic attacks.
For the occasional reverse sneeze, you can offer your dog some comfort. A common method people use is to hold the dog’s nose while gently massaging the bottom of the throat for a few seconds. You’ll notice that he swallows a few times in the process. The goal is to calm the dog and promote airflow. Fresh air or at least a change in environment will also help.
How to Stop Reverse Sneezing in Dogs
There are many different ways to stop a reverse sneeze attack. Some suggest simply covering your dog’s nostrils and allowing your dog to swallow food, which will help eliminate the irritant that is causing the allergy. You can also try massaging your dog’s throat, which can eliminate or relieve irritation in the area.
If the problem is chronic, your veterinarian will have to diagnose the underlying cause and provide appropriate treatment such as antihistamines for allergies, anti-parasites for nose mites, or removal of foreign objects.
The most important thing is to stay calm. Reverse sneezing is usually not a serious problem, but a momentary event that is about to happen. However, you should raise any concerns with your veterinarian. In our daily life we should keep up to date with the state of our dogs and love and care for them as much as we love and maintain our own children. The dog accompanies us and we are responsible for it. Dogs are the most loyal friends of our human beings, raising a dog for a day dog remember you for three years, this is not the least bit false; the dog’s loyalty, loyalty to the master, loyalty to mankind, too many stories, always the dog’s loyalty to my quasi-human, sacrificing his life to save the people’s little bits and pieces of the heartstrings of the people who are always touching the heartstrings of the people.