Older Dog Coughing After Drinking Water [10 Reasons]

Welcome, fellow dog lovers! Today, we want to talk about something that can be concerning for many pet owners: older dogs coughing after drinking water.

It’s not uncommon for our furry friends to experience health issues as they age, but it can be alarming to see them coughing after something as basic as drinking water.

If you’ve noticed this happening with your beloved companion, stay tuned, as we’re going to explore common causes, symptoms, and what you can do to prevent further complications.

Older Dog Coughing After Drinking Water

There could be various reasons why an older dog is coughing after drinking water, including heart disease, laryngeal paralysis, collapsed trachea, kennel cough, and more.

It is best to consult a veterinarian to have your dog examined and receive a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Let’s break it down further…

Possible Causes of Coughing in Older Dogs After Drinking Water

The following are some possible causes of coughing in older dogs after drinking water:

1. Respiratory Infections

Coughing after consuming water might be a symptom of respiratory illnesses such as kennel cough or pneumonia.

These bacterial or viral infections, which frequently affect the respiratory tract, can cause irritation and inflammation.

Consult your veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis if your dog displays coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, or lethargic behavior.

They might suggest cough suppressants, antiviral drugs, antibiotics to treat bacterial infections, and supportive care to hasten your dog’s recovery.

2. Heart Disease

Heart disease in dogs, especially in situations like congestive heart failure, can cause coughing.

Coughing after drinking water might result from fluid building up in the lungs caused by an ineffective heartbeat.

To identify the underlying heart issue, your veterinarian may perform a complete examination, which may include imaging tests like X-rays or echocardiography.

A particular diet that promotes heart health, medicine to control fluid retention and heart function, and lifestyle changes like reduced exercise or weight control are all possible treatment choices.

3. Tracheal Collapse

In small and toy breeds, tracheal collapse—where the trachea loses its stiffness and becomes irritated and coughy—is a common issue.

A dog’s trachea may aggravate worse after drinking water, which might cause coughing.

Use a harness rather than a collar to address this issue and relieve pressure on the neck.

Avoid activities that make you sweat excessively or become very excited since these can make your symptoms worse.

Aside from losing weight, your veterinarian may prescribe cough suppressants or bronchodilators to help with coughing bouts.

4. Esophageal Dysfunction

Coughing after consuming water and having trouble swallowing could be symptoms of esophageal dysfunction.

The esophagus anomalies, like constriction or weakness, maybe the cause of this illness.

To identify the underlying reason, your veterinarian could advise diagnostic procedures like X-rays or endoscopies.

Medication to control inflammation or motility problems, dietary changes to promote simple swallowing, and in some circumstances, surgery to rectify structural abnormalities are all possible forms of treatment.

Learn more about keeping your dog hydrated.

5. Kennel Cough

The highly contagious respiratory condition known as kennel cough, also known medically as infectious tracheobronchitis, results in a protracted cough.

Dogs with kennel cough frequently endure coughing fits after consuming water or while engaging in vigorous activity.

In environments with many dogs, vaccination and good cleanliness habits are especially important for preventing this illness.

6. Aspiration Pneumonia

Older dogs may be more prone to aspiration pneumonia, which occurs when foreign substances, such as food or water, are inhaled into the lungs.

Coughing, particularly after drinking or eating, can be a sign of this condition.

Veterinary care is necessary to diagnose and treat aspiration pneumonia promptly.

7. Tumors

Unfortunately, malignancies in the respiratory system, including the lungs or airways, can cause coughing as a symptom.

To ascertain the existence and type of the tumors, your veterinarian will do tests, such as imaging scans and even a biopsy.

Depending on the diagnosis, treatment choices may include palliative care to relieve symptoms and enhance your dog’s quality of life, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or surgery to remove the tumors.

8. Foreign Object

A bone fragment or small toy that your dog inadvertently ingests could become stuck in the throat or airway and cause coughing.

It’s essential to get veterinarian care very away to properly remove the impediment.

To find and remove the foreign object, your veterinarian may use imaging procedures like X-rays or endoscopies.

Surgery may be necessary in specific circumstances.

The best defense is a good offense, so take care to keep your dog away from things they might ingest.

9. Allergies

Dogs can experience allergies to numerous ambient elements or specific dietary ingredients, much like humans do.

After consuming water, coughing may indicate an allergic reaction.

Pollen, dust mites, some foods, and even chemicals are typical dog allergies.

Identifying and avoiding the allergen is essential for managing allergies. To identify the precise trigger, your veterinarian could advise doing allergy tests or trying a new diet.

Your veterinarian may give antihistamines or corticosteroids to help with symptoms, and in more serious situations, immunotherapy (allergy shots) may be advised.

10. Swallowing Issues

Some older dogs may develop swallowing difficulties or dysphagia, which can lead to coughing after drinking water.

This could be caused by various factors, including dental problems, esophageal disorders, or neurological issues.

If you suspect your dog is having trouble swallowing, it’s essential to consult a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Learn more about why your dog is not drinking enough water.

When to Seek Veterinary Care

If your older dog is coughing persistently or the coughing episodes are severe, it’s essential to seek veterinary care promptly.

A veterinarian can perform a comprehensive examination and recommend appropriate tests to identify the cause of the coughing and provide the necessary treatment options.

Diagnosing the Underlying Cause

To determine the underlying cause of your dog’s coughing, your veterinarian may conduct several diagnostic procedures.

These may include:

Physical Examination

A physical examination allows the veterinarian to assess your dog’s overall health and listen to their lungs and heart.

They may also examine the throat and oral cavity for any abnormalities.

Diagnostic Tests

Additional diagnostic tests, such as bloodwork, chest X-rays, ultrasound, bronchoscopy, or tracheal wash, may be recommended based on the veterinarian’s findings.

These tests help in identifying specific conditions and guiding the appropriate treatment plan.

Treatment Options

The treatment for coughing in older dogs depends on the underlying cause identified through diagnosis. Some common treatment options include:

Medications

To treat the underlying illness and stop the coughing, a veterinarian may prescribe medicines such as cough suppressants, bronchodilators, antibiotics, or heart drugs.

Lifestyle Changes

You can help your dog’s respiratory health by changing some aspects of your lifestyle. This can entail limiting exposure to irritants, maintaining a clean and dust-free environment, or staying away from physically demanding activities.

Environmental Modifications

Your elderly dog’s general health may benefit from a peaceful, stress-free environment. Reducing exposure to smoke, potent chemicals, and extremely hot or cold environments will help lessen respiratory irritation.

Home Remedies

Home methods for coughing alleviation include utilizing a humidifier, steam therapy, and natural vitamins that your veterinarian may offer.

To make sure any home treatments you try are secure and appropriate for your dog, you must speak with your veterinarian first.

Preventive Measures

Taking preventive measures can help maintain your older dog’s respiratory health and minimize the risk of coughing episodes.

Here are some essential steps:

Regular Vet Check-ups

To keep track of your dog’s overall health and identify any developing problems early, schedule routine veterinary exams. On immunizations, preventative drugs, and general care, your veterinarian can offer advice.

Maintaining a Healthy Weight

Dogs with respiratory issues may become more obese. You may lessen the stress on your dog’s respiratory system by maintaining a healthy weight with a balanced diet and regular exercise.

Proper Hydration

Make sure your senior dog always has access to clean water. Drinking enough water keeps their respiratory system operating at its best.

Clean and Dust-Free Environment

To reduce exposure to allergens like pollen and dust, regularly clean your dog’s living space. Ensure adequate airflow and use cleaning supplies that are pet-friendly.

Tips for Managing Older Dog Coughing After Drinking Water

Older dogs may experience coughing after drinking water for a variety of reasons, such as irritation or inflammation in the throat or airways, heart or lung issues, and tracheal collapse.

To manage this condition, you can try the following tips:

1. Visit the vet: It is important to have your older dog examined by a veterinary professional to determine the underlying cause of the coughing and gagging and get a proper diagnosis.
2. Modify feeding and drinking times: Try giving your dog smaller meals and drinks throughout the day to reduce the risk of coughing after eating or drinking.
3. Elevate food and water bowls: Raising the height of the food and water bowls may help reduce strain on your dog’s throat and make it easier for them to swallow.
4. Provide cough suppressants: Your veterinarian may prescribe cough suppressants that can help reduce coughing and calm the airways.
5. Keep your dog calm: Avoid exciting or stressful activities that may trigger coughing spells. Keeping your dog calm and relaxed can help reduce the frequency and intensity of coughing.
6. Manage any underlying health issues: If your dog has an underlying health issue such as heart disease or lung problems, follow your veterinarian’s recommendations for managing these conditions, which may also help with the coughing.
7. Maintain an Ideal Weight: Obesity can exacerbate respiratory issues, so it’s important to maintain your older dog’s ideal weight. Speak to your veterinarian about appropriate diet and exercise strategies to help your dog achieve and maintain a healthy weight.

Overall, it is important to work closely with your veterinarian to determine the underlying cause of the coughing and develop an appropriate management plan.

Related Questions

Why is my older dog coughing after drinking water?

Coughing after drinking water can be caused by a variety of factors, including allergies, respiratory infections, heart disease, or even just drinking too quickly. It’s important to take your dog to the vet to determine the root cause of the cough.

Is coughing after drinking water common in older dogs?

Yes, it’s fairly common for older dogs to have trouble swallowing or develop respiratory issues, which can lead to coughing after drinking water.

What are some other symptoms I should look out for if my dog is coughing after drinking water?

Other symptoms to look for include lethargy, loss of appetite, difficulty breathing, and fever. If your dog is experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to take them to the vet as soon as possible.

Can coughing after drinking water be treated?

Yes, the treatment will depend on the root cause of the cough. Your vet may prescribe medication or recommend changes to your dog’s diet or environment to address the underlying issue.

Is there anything I can do to help prevent my older dog from coughing after drinking water?

Some things you can do include making sure your dog drinks water slowly, keeping them away from irritants like cigarette smoke, and providing a comfortable and clean environment.

Should I be worried if my older dog only coughs after drinking water occasionally?

If your dog coughs after drinking water occasionally and shows no other symptoms, it may not be a cause for concern. However, if the cough persists or worsens, it’s best to take your dog to the vet to rule out any underlying health issues.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you notice your older dog coughing after drinking water, it’s important not to panic, but to take action.

This can be a sign of a few different things, and it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Keep a close eye on your furry friend, and if the issue persists, don’t hesitate to consult your veterinarian.

With proper care and attention, your dog will continue to feel loved and cherished for many years to come!