Reverse sneezing, also known as Pharyngeal Gag Reflex or Paroxysmal Respiration. It is a relatively widespread respiratory condition in dogs and cats, that is normally triggered off by a spasm in their soft palate as well as laryngeal area. Many refer to this as a“reverse sneeze” because during the event, the pet is gasping air heavily inward, instead of simply expelling it, like in a typical sneeze. Although harmless in itself, it can be rather alarming for pet owners to see and can be indicative of a more serious problem.
Typically dogs will extend their neck as they gasp for air with loud and strong grunting sound.
Since the trachea becomes narrow, it’s even harder for dogs to get a sufficient amount of air into their lungs. As a result, their chest might expand as they try to inhale.
During the episode, most pet owners think their dog or cat is suffocating, choking, or even suffering from a seizure.
Each occurrence only lasts for just a couple of minutes or less. The episode normally ends on its own without posing any threat to your dog’s health. This phenomenon is rarely fatal and can be set off by a wide variety of some forms of allergies, pollen, dust mites, viruses, post-nasal drip perfumes cleaners and chemicals. These irritants can be a triggering factor, as well as rapid drinking, extreme exercise, pulling when walking and excitement.
Since the trachea becomes narrow, it’s even harder for dogs to get a sufficient amount of air into their lungs. As a result, their chest might expand as they try to inhale.
During the episode, most pet owners think their dog or cat is suffocating, choking, or even suffering from a seizure.
Each occurrence only lasts for just a couple of minutes or less. The episode normally ends on its own without posing any threat to your dog’s health. This phenomenon is rarely fatal and can be set off by a wide variety of some forms of allergies, pollen, dust mites, viruses, post-nasal drip perfumes cleaners and chemicals. These irritants can be a triggering factor, as well as rapid drinking, extreme exercise, pulling when walking and excitement.
Although any dog breed can experience this respiratory condition, it is more widespread in smaller pooches. Short-faced dogs like Boxers, Boston Terriers, Bulldogs, Pugs, and Shih Tzus are found to be more at risk of reverse sneezing. It has been suspected that a genetic factor is involved with such kind of breeds.
If allergies have been discovered to be the main cause of the problem, antihistamine medications can be administered. Your vet may prescribe drugs if mites are found in the dog’s laryngeal area.
I found that massaging the throat area, helps alot, as both my miniature poodle, cattle dog, and Great Dane have had episodes, Always consult your veterinarian if it persists, because there can be other factors to the cause.
Mahalo,
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