Are you worried because your furry friend is coughing up blood? It’s a concerning symptom that may indicate a serious health problem. Don’t delay seeking medical attention for your dog, as the causes can range from mild to severe. Rush to the emergency vet immediately if your pet is coughing up blood excessively.
Alternatively, you can check the list of potential causes below to get a better understanding of your dog’s condition and decide whether or not to take him to the emergency vet. But it’s always better to err on the side of caution and consult with your vet or emergency vet for any concerns about your pet’s health. They will diagnose the underlying cause and provide the best possible treatment for your furry friend.
Seven Common Reasons Why Your Dog Might Be Coughing Up Blood
While there are many possible causes, it’s important to seek veterinary care immediately to determine the underlying issue. Below, we’ll explore seven common reasons why your dog might be coughing up blood and what you can do to help your furry friend
1. MOUTH INJURY IN DOGS
If your dog is coughing up blood, it could be due to a dental injury. Common causes include cuts on the gums, losing a tooth, or biting the tongue. Dogs may drool blood or swallow it rather than cough it up with dental injuries.
It’s crucial to examine your dog’s mouth carefully if you notice this symptom. If you can’t identify the source of the blood, a thorough examination by a vet may be necessary. Sedation may also be required if your pet is bleeding from the mouth.
2. DOG RESPIRATORY INFECTIONS
Respiratory infections like canine influenza, Bordetella, or distemper can lead to dogs coughing up blood. Frequent, forceful coughing inflames the trachea and bronchi in the lungs, causing the blood.
Puppies and unvaccinated dogs are more vulnerable to distemper. But any dog who’s recently been in social settings like dog parks, grooming or boarding can contract Bordetella or canine influenza. Other symptoms may include yellow or green nasal discharge, wheezing, and hacking.
Healthy adult dogs with mild respiratory infections are less likely to cough up blood. However, it can occur if the infection becomes severe, such as pneumonia.
3. DOG HEARTWORM DISEASE
Heartworm disease can also cause a dog to cough up blood. The disease damages the heart and lungs, leading to inflammation and blood coughing. It’s essential to inform the vet if your dog has not been on routine heartworm prevention.
If your dog is already diagnosed with heartworms and coughing up blood, seek veterinary care. The disease may have progressed to a more severe stage, requiring a chest x-ray to determine the best steps to manage your pet’s condition.
4. SWALLOWING A FOREIGN OBJECT
If your dog swallows a foreign object such as a toy, plastic, or any other item he finds around your house, it could lead to him coughing up blood. If the object remains lodged in his esophagus, it could also put pressure on his trachea, making it difficult for him to breathe. Additionally, it could cause severe lesions along the mucosa of the esophagus.
If you suspect that your pet may have swallowed a foreign object, it is important to take him to an emergency veterinarian immediately. They can perform an x-ray and administer oxygen supplementation if necessary. In some cases, the object may pass through on its own, but in other cases, endoscopy may be necessary to remove it from the esophagus.
5. CONGESTIVE HEART FAILURE
Congestive heart failure is a common condition in older dogs, and it is also one of the most common causes of coughing up blood. Dogs with congestive heart failure are prone to coughing fits, particularly as the disease progresses. As the condition worsens, the coughing fits may produce bloody foam or sputum.
If your pet is experiencing difficulty breathing, a high respiratory rate (>30/minute) when resting, or coughing up blood, it is crucial to bring him to an emergency veterinarian immediately. They can perform x-rays, assess the heart and lung fields, start treatment, and provide oxygen supplementation as needed.
If your dog has been diagnosed with congestive heart failure, it is essential to discuss the best medical care options with your vet for the remainder of his life. While the condition cannot be cured, you can help your dog live comfortably with appropriate care.
6. INGESTION OF TOXINS OR POISON
The ingestion of toxins or poisons is a severe potential cause of a dog coughing up blood. If your dog has ingested a toxic substance such as a cleaning chemical or rat poison, he may cough up blood as his body tries to fight off the toxicity.
If you suspect that your dog has eaten something toxic or poisonous, it is important to take him to the emergency vet immediately. It is also recommended to call the Pet Poison Helpline to determine the best course of treatment for your pet. The veterinarians associated with the Pet Poison Helpline can work with your emergency veterinarian to create a proper decontamination and treatment plan to aid your dog.
7. COAGULOPATHY OR CLOTTING DISORDERS
Clotting or coagulation disorders can also lead to a dog coughing up blood. If your dog starts sneezing or has a nosebleed, it could indicate an issue with clotting. As the disorder progresses, it may lead to continued epistaxis and coughing up blood.
Clotting disorders can be due to several factors, such as autoimmune disease, poison/toxin exposure, tick-borne diseases, liver failure, or cancer. It is essential to bring your pet to the emergency room right away so that bloodwork and imaging diagnostics can be performed to determine the cause of the epistaxis and develop a proper treatment plan.
What to Do If Your Dog Coughs Up Blood?
If your dog is coughing up blood, it’s important to take immediate action to ensure their health and safety. Here are some more detailed steps to take:
- Observe your dog: If your dog is coughing up blood, try to observe them closely to see if there are any other symptoms or changes in behavior. Note down the duration, frequency, and nature of the coughing up of blood.
- Contact your veterinarian: Contact your veterinarian as soon as possible and describe the symptoms your dog is experiencing. They will likely ask you questions to help determine the potential cause and recommend immediate action.
- Seek emergency care: If your dog’s condition is severe or your veterinarian recommends it, take your dog to the nearest emergency veterinarian immediately. If possible, bring a sample of the blood coughed up by the dog to the vet for analysis.
- Follow the veterinarian’s instructions: The veterinarian will perform a thorough physical examination and may recommend diagnostic tests, such as X-rays or bloodwork, to identify the underlying cause of the bleeding. Once the diagnosis is made, they will provide the necessary treatment, including medication or surgery, to address the issue.
- Monitor your dog’s progress: After initial treatment, you should closely monitor your dog’s recovery and follow any instructions given by your veterinarian. Be sure to administer any prescribed medications on schedule and report any concerning changes in your dog’s condition.
- Prevent future incidents: Take steps to prevent similar incidents from occurring, such as keeping small objects away from your dog and ensuring they are not exposed to toxic substances. Regular visits to the vet can also help identify and prevent potential health issues.
In conclusion, if you notice your dog coughing up blood, it is crucial to seek veterinary care immediately. This symptom can be an indication of various serious health issues, including foreign object ingestion, congestive heart failure, toxin or poison ingestion, and clotting disorders. Early diagnosis and treatment can improve your pet’s chances of recovery and ensure they receive the appropriate medical care to manage their condition. Therefore, as a responsible pet owner, it is essential to keep an eye on your dog’s health and seek professional help promptly if any concerning symptoms arise, such as coughing up blood.
