Tracheal Collapse in Dogs
by Roger Ross DVM
The trachea (windpipe) is made up of about 40 C-shaped rings of cartilage that are joined by muscle and ligaments to create a tube-like structure. Sometimes the trachea collapses, much like a soda straw being sucked on too hard.
This causes the pet to gasp for air and cough and gag.
Possible causes include trauma, birth defects, degeneration of the cartilage (usually in older dogs), genetic reasons, and general poor health.
Affected animals are frequently middle-aged or old, overweight, small-breed dogs, especially toy and miniature breeds, who may have an associated bronchial, throat, heart or liver problem.
A large heart may compress the trachea, worsening the coughing. A large liver reduces the space for lung expansion, further compromising oxygen supply to the body.
This problem can be tough to diagnose. A good examination, history, observation, and chest x-rays are usually needed.
A suspected case may need to go to a specialist for endoscopy. This procedure allows the veterinarian to see the extent of the problem inside the trachea.
Because other problems are often associated with a collapsed trachea, blood work and other tests will probably be recommended so we can figure out the extent of the problem(s).
Possible Treatments might include:
Cough medications
Bronchodilators
Antibiotics
Anti-inflammatories
Diet Changes, especially if obese
Surgery
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