If your dog has been coughing a lot and it doesn't seem to be getting better, it may have tracheal collapse. This is a condition where the trachea (windpipe) becomes narrowed and makes it difficult for dogs to breathe. In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms and treatment of tracheal collapse in dogs.
What is tracheal collapse in dogs?
Tracheal collapse in dogs is a result of the narrowing of the trachea (windpipe), which can be due to excess tissue around the trachea, weakening or malformation of the cartilage rings that support it, or both.
Tracheal collapse is a common problem in dogs, especially smaller breeds. The condition is diagnosed most commonly in older dogs and it can cause chronic coughing. Yorkshire Terriers and Pomeranians are the breeds most commonly affected.
The severity of tracheal collapse in dogs is based on a grade scale. With grade 1 tracheal collapse, the tracheal lumen, or opening, is reduced by approximately 25%. With the highest grade, which is grade 4, the tracheal lumen is essentially closed.
What causes tracheal collapse in dogs?
The precise cause of tracheal collapse in dogs is as yet unidentified but is probably multifactorial. Tracheal collapse is an acquired disease in some dogs; however, patients displaying symptoms early in life may have a congenital disorder. The increased prevalence of toy and small-breed dogs may suggest that genetics play a role.
Dogs with tracheal collapse may have weaker cartilage because they have less chondroitin sulfate, glycoproteins, and glycosaminoglycan. This may happen if the cartilage changes from hyaline cartilage to fibrocartilage. Or it could be because the cells that make cartilage (chondrocytes) are not working right and making less of the materials that make up cartilage (cartilage matrix).
What are the symptoms of tracheal collapse in dogs?
The most common symptom of tracheal collapse in dogs is a harsh, "goose-honking" cough. The cough is more pronounced during exercise and may also be noticed when pulling on the leash, during excitement, and eating or drinking.
Other symptoms may include:
- Difficulty exercising
- Cyanosis (a bluish tint to the skin, gums, or nails due to lack of oxygen in the blood)
- Respiratory distress
- Tachypnea (abnormally fast breathing)
- Fainting or collapsing
If your dog is showing any of these symptoms, it is important to take them to your veterinarian for an evaluation as soon as possible.
How is tracheal collapse in dogs diagnosed?
Your veterinarian will likely suspect tracheal collapse based on your dog's history and physical examination findings.
They will likely recommend confirmatory testing, which may include:
Radiographs (X-rays): This is the most common diagnostic test used to evaluate tracheal collapse. Changes on radiographs are not always apparent in mild cases, but more advanced cases will show the narrowing of the trachea.
Fluoroscopy: This is a type of X-ray that uses real-time imaging to evaluate tracheal collapse. This test is typically performed at specialty referral centers such as veterinary colleges.
Bronchoscopy: Bronchoscopy is the best method for diagnosing tracheal collapse. This is a procedure where a small camera is passed through the trachea and into the lungs in order to visualize the trachea and bronchi.
What are the treatment options for tracheal collapse in dogs?
The goal of tracheal collapse treatment is to improve the quality of your dog's life by reducing their cough and making it easier for them to breathe. Treatment options include:
Medications: There are a variety of medications that can be used to help dogs with tracheal collapse, including corticosteroids such as prednisone, bronchodilators such as theophylline, antitussives (cough suppressants) such as hydrocodone, and sedatives.
Avoidance of triggers: If your dog's coughing is triggered by excitement, leash pulling, or other activities, avoiding these triggers can help reduce the cough and prevent exacerbation of symptoms.
Surgery: Surgery is typically only recommended for severe cases that do not respond to medical management or in very severe cases. Surgical options include tracheal stenting or tracheal prostheses.
Tracheal collapse in dogs is a condition where the trachea (windpipe) becomes narrowed. The cause of tracheal collapse is unknown, but it is likely multifactorial. Symptoms include a harsh "goose-honking" cough, difficulty exercising, cyanosis, respiratory distress, tachypnea, and fainting or collapsing. Diagnosis is typically made based on symptoms and confirmed with radiographs or bronchoscopy. Treatment options include medications, avoidance of triggers, and surgery.
If your dog is showing any signs of tracheal collapse, it is important to take them to your veterinarian for an evaluation as soon as possible. With proper diagnosis and treatment, many dogs with tracheal collapse can enjoy a good quality of life.