Dogs, like humans, can suffer from laryngitis, a common respiratory condition that affects the vocal cords and causes hoarseness or a raspy voice. In this blog, our Baton Rouge veterinary we'll cover the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and recovery of laryngitis in dogs.
What is Dog Laryngitis?
Laryngitis is when the voice box or larynx gets swollen. The larynx helps us make sounds and breathe. Swelling can make it hard to talk and breathe normally. Dogs can also get laryngitis from infections or other health problems. This can happen quickly or over time.
Symptoms of Laryngitis in Dogs
The symptoms of laryngitis in dogs can vary depending on the severity of the inflammation.
The most common symptoms include:
- Hoarseness or loss of voice
- Coughing
- Bad breath
- Difficulty breathing
- Harsh or raspy sound when breathing.
- Other symptoms may include fatigue, loss of appetite, and fever.
If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, it's essential to consult a veterinarian immediately.
Causes of Laryngitis in Dogs
Laryngitis in dogs can be caused by different things such as infections, allergies, and health problems. Some common causes are viral or bacterial infections like kennel cough, pneumonia, and canine influenza. Trauma to the throat, irritants such as smoke or dust, and underlying health problems like hypothyroidism, heart disease, or cancer can also cause it.
Diagnosis of Laryngitis in Dogs
If you think your dog has laryngitis, bring them to the vet. The vet will check your dog's throat, maybe take pictures, and test for infections. After the diagnosis, the vet will suggest a treatment plan according to the condition's seriousness and causes.
Treatment of Laryngitis in Dogs
When a dog gets laryngitis, how it's treated depends on how bad it is and what caused it. If it's not too bad, your dog can recover with rest and plenty of water. But if it's more serious, the vet may need to give medicine or keep your dog at the hospital. If bacteria caused it, antibiotics can help, and if there's pain and swelling, anti-inflammatory drugs can be used. If something is blocking your dog's throat or causing inflammation, surgery may be necessary.
Recovery of Laryngitis in Dogs
The length of time it takes for our furry friends to recover from laryngitis depends on how serious the condition is and what's causing it. If it's not too severe, a few days of rest and treatment may be all they need to get back to their wagging-tailed selves. However, if it's a tougher case, it could take a few weeks or even months. While your pooch is on the mend, make sure to follow your vet's advice and keep a watchful eye on them. With plenty of TLC and the right treatment, most dogs with laryngitis can make a full recovery and get back to their playful, happy-go-lucky selves in no time
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.