Just like people our beloved pets can end up with respiratory problems ranging from infection, to aspiration to COPD. Newborn animals can have respiratory issues as can elderly pets and every age in between.
Because proper lung function is critical to life, any lung issue needs to be promptly diagnosed and treated. Lack of oxygen delivered by the lungs to heart can lead to heart failure. Dogs with lung problems will often experience fatigue and panting, related to the lack of oxygen to the lungs.
Causes of Lung Issues in Dogs and Cats
- Infections (viral, bacterial, fungal)
- Heartworm
- Lungworm
- Vaccine Side Effect
- Pneumonia
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Poor air quality
- Secondhand smoke
- Pesticides
Lung Issues in Pet Babies
If your puppy or kitten is having difficulty breathing for any reason, a visit to the vet is warranted. Puppies and kittens are delicate and there is not time to try different remedies to figure out a solution. If your newborn animal has aspirated on milk he will need to have antibiotics and monitoring from a vet.
Remedies List for Pet Lung Problems
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a simple solution for many problems that affect the lungs of pets. A daily dose of apple cider vinegar can reduce allergies and asthma, fight infection, and improve the pH of the body.
A simple and gentle way to dose your pet with apple cider vinegar is shown on this video!
Mullein
Mullein is a gentle herb that is healing to the lungs. It is mild tasting and usually easy to dose.
Mullein tincture is given 3-5 times a day. It should be diluted in some water. It can be added to food or water or mixed with water and give by a syringe.
- Kittens and Puppies: 3-5 drops per dose
- Cats and small dogs: 8- 10 drops per dose
- Medium dogs: 15-20 drops per dose
- Large dogs: 30-60 drops per dose
Turmeric
Turmeric is a spice that is a powerful antibacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory. It can be used for lung issues that are caused by infections, allergies, or any type of inflammation.
Dosing information for turmeric can be found on this page.
Reduce Chemical Exposure
Pets are close to the ground. All four paws touch the ground, bellies and noses are exposed to the ground. These chemicals absorb into the skin and wreak havoc on the bodies of animals.
Second hand smoke is harmful to pets as well as people. This page will give you ideas for detoxing your dog or cat from chemical overload.
Cleaning your pet's paws after a walk can significantly reduce their chemical load.
Dietary Changes
Cheap dog and cat food tends to have significant amounts of fillers, chemicals, colors and grains, none of which are ideal for pets. Making your own dog or cat food or buying higher quality pet foods can reduce allergies and asthma in pets, eliminating lung problems. Higher quality foods also provide better nutrition for pets which will allow all body systems to function more optimally.
Have you resolved a lung issue in your dog or cat? Please send us some feedback!
Additional Pages of Interest in the Pet’s Section: