I completely understand why you're worried about your chihuahua. It sounds quite unsettling to see your pet in discomfort like that. Based on what you’ve described, there are a few possibilities we can consider.
One common issue in small, older dogs like chihuahuas is a condition called tracheal collapse. This occurs when the cartilage in the trachea weakens, leading to a distinctive honking cough. Heart disease is another potential cause, as fluid build-up can lead to coughing. Allergies or irritants in the environment could also make your pup cough without producing anything.
While you're at home, ensure your environment is free from smoke, dust, and strong scents, as these can exacerbate coughing. Keep your chihuahua calm and prevent excessive barking, which can aggravate the condition. Try using a harness instead of a collar when taking her for walks to relieve pressure on her windpipe.
Watch for signs such as difficulty breathing, blue-tinted gums, or excessive lethargy, as these could indicate a more serious issue that needs immediate attention.
To get a definitive answer and peace of mind, consider booking a video consult with one of our vets at Dial A Vet. This way, they can observe your dog’s symptoms and provide guidance tailored to your situation.
My elderly chihuahua keeps choking/coughing but nothing comes up. I think the vet may have misdiagnosed
I’m seriously starting to worry about Luna. She’s my 12-year-old chihuahua and recently, like the past couple weeks, she’s been having these weird coughing fits, almost like she’s choking, but nothing ever comes up. It usually happens more in the evenings after she eats, or when she gets excited. I took her to the vet last week, and they said it might just be allergies or something, but I don’t know… It doesn’t seem right to me. She’s still eating and drinking okay, but these episodes just feel so sudden and intense. Has anyone else experienced something like this? Could it be something they missed at the vet? I’m just at a loss here and don’t want my poor girl to suffer if there's something more going on.
Answer
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