Pet Asthma Treatment at with our Duarte Veterinarian
Watching your pet experience an asthma attack can be both scary and upsetting. Like humans, asthma in pets occurs when an irritant or allergen triggers an attack. The important thing is not to panic. If you're in the Duarte, CA, area, our experienced team at Duarte Azusa Animal Hospital is ready to help your furry friend breathe easier. We will act quickly, using the latest treatments to get your pet back on its feet.
What Is Asthma?
Asthma is not a disease but a condition caused by a reaction to a particular allergen, which varies from pet to pet. This reaction causes the airways in the lungs to narrow, muscles to tighten and swell, and mucus to form, making it very difficult to breathe.
Symptoms of Asthma in Pets
If your pet is experiencing an asthma attack or dealing with the condition in general, it may exhibit one or more of the following symptoms:
- Wheezing
- Pale or bluish gums
- Shortness of breath
- Panting
- Chronic coughing
- Mouth breathing
- Loss of appetite
- Lack of energy
- Mucus buildup
- Breathing problems
- Potentially causing other respiratory issues
Common Allergens That Trigger Asthma
Common environmental triggers include:
- Pollen
- Grass
- Mold/mildew
- Smoke of all types
- Dust
- Smog
- Cleaning products
- Perfumes
- Air fresheners
- Pesticides
- Cat litter
How Is Asthma Diagnosed and Treated?
When you take your pet to the vet for a proper diagnosis and asthma treatment, the doctor will begin by performing a full examination. They will likely conduct diagnostics like X-rays, bloodwork, and urinalysis to rule out other conditions. They will ask you a series of questions and discuss where and what your pet was exposed to when a possible asthma attack occurred.
Once a diagnosis is made, your vet will develop a treatment plan that you will administer as a team. Depending on the severity, this could include anti-inflammatory steroids, a specially designed inhaler for pets, cold mist humidity, and dietary supplements. Your vet may also recommend lifestyle changes, such as staying indoors more often and dietary adjustments.
Contact A Veterinarian Near You
If you're in the Duarte area and need top-quality veterinary care for your pet, the team at Duarte Azusa Animal Hospital is here to help. Not only can we provide quick relief from asthma symptoms, but we also offer a full range of pet medical services.