Respiratory Distress in Dogs and Cats: Recognizing Breathing Emergencies Before It’s Too Late
When your dog is struggling to breathe or your cat starts wheezing unexpectedly, panic can set in quickly—and for good reason. Respiratory distress in pets is a serious medical emergency that can worsen within minutes. At Animal Medical Hospital & Urgent Care in Charlotte, NC, our team is equipped with the tools, training, and compassion to recognize and treat pet breathing issues before they become life-threatening.
Let’s explore the signs of respiratory emergencies in pets, what may cause them, and when to seek urgent care for pets.
Signs Your Pet May Be in Respiratory Distress
It’s not always easy to know whether your pet’s breathing is just a little “off” or dangerously abnormal. Here are signs to watch for that may indicate a need for immediate evaluation:
- Open-mouth breathing in cats
- Wheezing or noisy breathing (especially a cat wheezing emergency)
- Persistent coughing or gagging
- Shallow, rapid, or labored breathing
- Bluish or pale gums and tongue
- Reluctance to lie down or sudden collapse
- Extended neck and head held low to ease airflow
Any of these symptoms warrants urgent evaluation, particularly if they come on suddenly or are accompanied by lethargy or anxiety. Don’t wait—pet breathing issues can escalate quickly.
Common Causes of Pet Breathing Issues
A wide range of medical issues can cause breathing trouble in dogs and cats. These include:
- Allergic reactions: Bee stings, food allergies, and environmental allergens can all trigger swelling and airway constriction.
- Upper respiratory infections: Common in cats and small-breed dogs, especially those from shelters or group housing.
- Heart disease: A common culprit in older pets, especially small dogs with heart murmurs or valve issues.
- Lung disease: Pneumonia, asthma, or even lung cancer may cause respiratory distress.
- Obstructions: Toys, bones, or rawhides can become lodged in the throat or esophagus, potentially causing serious complications.
- Heatstroke or trauma: Overexertion in hot weather or blunt force injuries can severely impair breathing.
Understanding the root cause can help your veterinarian provide the fastest, most effective care—whether that involves oxygen therapy, imaging, or medication.
When To Visit Urgent Care for Breathing Trouble
If you suspect your pet is having a breathing emergency, it’s always safer to act quickly. Our urgent care service is open daily from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and is equipped to handle respiratory emergencies. We offer advanced diagnostics, including in-house blood work, digital X-rays, and ultrasound, as well as respiratory therapy when needed.
Please call us immediately at (704) 334-4684 to ensure we can care for your pet at that time. If we are at capacity or if it’s after 6 p.m., contact one of the following 24-hour emergency facilities:
- Veterinary Emergency Group: (980) 880-6062
- CARE Charlotte: (704) 457-2300
- Carolina Veterinary Specialist Matthews: (704) 815-3939
It’s always better to be cautious than to risk waiting too long in a true breathing emergency.
What To Expect During an Urgent Care Visit
Knowing what happens during an urgent care visit can help ease your nerves during a stressful situation. Here’s how our process works:
- Call ahead so we can confirm availability.
- Triage begins upon arrival, with vital signs, medical history, and any necessary samples.
- A dedicated urgent care doctor will conduct a thorough examination and develop a personalized treatment plan.
- Treatment begins immediately after your approval, with staff working swiftly to stabilize your pet.
- Discharge instructions and follow-up care will be reviewed with you in detail before you check out.
Video endoscopy may also be used in certain breathing-related cases to diagnose and remove obstructions without the need for surgery.
Fast Action Saves Lives
Breathing emergencies can be frightening, but knowing the signs and seeking help immediately can make all the difference. Our veterinarians and staff are trained to respond to these critical situations with skill and urgency. We’re proud to offer urgent care 7 days a week, 365 days a year, because your pet deserves the best care, every day. Call us at (704) 334-4684 to schedule a wellness care visit, for urgent care needs, or to inquire about other services.