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Thomas D. Scavelli, DVM, Diplomate ACVS, Director
TheJournalNJ.com | OCTOBER 2020 43
Analyzing Tracheal
Collapse in Pets
GARDEN STATE VETERINARY SPECIALISTS
The trachea is made up of cartilaginous rings shaped like the letter
“C.” Over time, these rings start to weaken and the tracheal
membrane becomes loose. When a dog with tracheal collapse
breathes outward, the membrane of the trachea droops down and
causes an occlusion. The tickling sensation of the membrane touching
the tracheal lining generates coughing, and if the obstruction
interrupts breathing the patient may become distressed. Panting or
rapid breathing for any reason makes collapse and anxiety worse,
which unfortunately tends to generate more rapid breathing and a
vicious cycle of distress.
The factor that can sometimes further complicate this disease
trachea gets worse and worse.
Tracheal collapse is a common disease we see in small breed
dogs, such as Yorkshire terrier, Maltese and Pomeranians. It usually is
seen in middle aged dogs but realistically can occur at any age. Many
times, dogs with tracheal collapse are asymptomatic until they are
having an episode. Potential hazards that can predispose a patient
with tracheal disease to an episode are:
• Obesity
• Cigarette smoke, dust, airway irritants, extreme heat
• Heart disease
• Irritation from endotracheal tube during anesthesia
There are two ways to treat tracheal collapse: medical management
or placement of a tracheal stent. Medical management
suppressants and sometimes steroids. Patients that are having an
episode are often hospitalized with oxygen and kept sedated until
severe cases, where medical management has failed, placement
of tracheal stents is considered. This procedure is performed by a
veterinary internist.
blue colored gums or uncontrolled coughing, he/she should be seen
by a veterinarian immediately. If your pet has been diagnosed with
tracheal collapse, try and keep him/her cool and quiet in the heat and
avoid excitement. Use a harness rather than a neck leash. Cigarette
pet a healthy weight will also help ease their breathing.
The information contained in this article is for informational purposes
only and should not take the place of the advice of a veterinarian
who has had the opportunity to examine your pet.
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