Choking in pets is a distressing situation in which an object becomes lodged in the throat, obstructing the airway and making it difficult for the pet to breathe. This can occur when a pet swallows something too large or irregularly shaped or food gets stuck due to eating too quickly.
While choking is relatively common among pets of all sizes and breeds, especially those who are curious or voracious eaters, it can lead to severe consequences if not addressed promptly. In this article, we’ll walk you through five harmful signs of choking in pets and provide practical advice on preventing these situations.
Excessive Drooling and Gagging
Choking-related drooling is different from pets’ normal drooling. It’s typically sudden, excessive, persistent, and accompanied by other distress signals, such as gagging or frantic behavior. These signs indicate that something is irritating or obstructing their throat.
Excessive drooling and gagging can lead to severe consequences if the blockage is not promptly addressed. For example, a complete airway obstruction can prevent the pet from breathing, potentially resulting in unconsciousness or even death. Additionally, persistent drooling and gagging can cause irritation and inflammation of the throat, further complicating the pet’s ability to breathe and increasing discomfort.
Ensure your pet’s food is appropriately sized to prevent choking due to excessive drooling and gagging. For instance, providing puppy food for small breeds can reduce the risk of choking, as this food is specifically designed to be easily swallowed by smaller mouths. More importantly, supervise your pets during mealtime and remove any small objects they could potentially swallow.
Coughing and Hacking Sounds
Coughing and hacking sounds are also indicators of a potential choking hazard. These sounds occur when a pet tries to expel the object blocking their airway. The intensity of the coughing can vary, but it’s usually persistent and sounds different from a typical cough caused by other health issues.
Persistent coughing and hacking can lead to inflammation and irritation of the throat and airway, making breathing even more difficult for the pet. This continued strain can cause further damage to the respiratory system and exacerbate the choking hazard.
To prevent such incidents, avoid giving your pet small bones, rawhide, or toys that can easily break into pieces. Regularly inspect their toys for wear and tear and replace them as needed. Also, consider using a slow feeder bowl to help pets who tend to eat too quickly, reducing the risk of food getting lodged in their throat.
Pawing at the Mouth
When a pet begins pawing at its mouth, it is often a sign that it is trying to dislodge something stuck in its throat. This behavior is a clear indication that the pet is experiencing discomfort and is attempting to remove the obstruction on its own.
This behavior is harmful because it suggests a significant blockage that the pet cannot remove. Continuous pawing can also lead to injury around the mouth and face, adding to the pet’s distress and potentially causing further complications.
Preventing this involves ensuring that all chew toys and food items are safe and suitable for your pet’s size and breed. Regularly monitor your pet while playing or eating, and intervene if they seem to be struggling. Educating yourself on pet first aid can also be invaluable in managing these situations effectively.
Difficulty Breathing
Difficulty breathing is one of the most serious signs of choking and requires immediate attention. Pets may show difficulty breathing, wheezing, or an inability to breathe entirely. This sign is often accompanied by visible panic and distress in the animal.
Difficulty breathing is extremely harmful because the airway is partially or completely blocked. Without immediate intervention, the pet’s oxygen levels can drop rapidly, leading to cyanosis (more of this later), loss of consciousness, and potentially fatal outcomes.
To prevent incidents of difficult breathing, keep your home free of small objects that pets can swallow accidentally. Ensure that all household items that could pose a choking hazard are out of reach. Regularly check and replace any damaged or broken toys that could become choking hazards.
Bluish Gums or Tongue
Cyanosis, commonly known as bluish gums or tongue, is a late and severe sign of choking. This occurs when the oxygen levels in the blood drop to dangerously low levels, indicating that the pet is not getting enough air.
Cyanosis is extremely harmful because it signifies a critical lack of oxygen, which can quickly lead to brain damage or death if not addressed immediately. This is a medical emergency, and urgent action is required to save the pet’s life.
Preventing cyanosis involves being vigilant about the other signs of choking and taking swift action if they appear. Familiarize yourself with basic pet first aid techniques, such as the Heimlich maneuver (e.g., applying abdominal thrusts to expel the object from the airway forcefully) for pets, and keep emergency contact numbers for your vet handy. Lastly, as mentioned, always supervise your pet during activities with a higher risk of choking.
Final Thoughts
Choking is a natural risk for pets but can be extremely harmful in the worst cases. Pet owners should be vigilant and prepared to act if their pet shows signs of choking. Remember, if you’re ever unsure of what to do, speaking to professionals for guidance is always recommended. Your pet’s safety and well-being depend on your quick and informed actions.
