If your dog is not acting like himself, a sore throat might be to blame. Dog throat infection symptoms can show up in various ways. It's troubling when you find yourself worried about dog throat problems, and since causes vary, contact your veterinarian when you suspect that your pet is suffering from this ailment.
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Dog irritated throat symptoms
Dog throat infection symptoms include coughing, gagging, head shaking, pacing, and loss of appetite. Your dog's throat or tonsils may appear red and inflamed, and mucus may be draining down his throat. He may develop a fever, show signs of lethargy, and have trouble swallowing.
If your dog displays any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian. Pay close attention to your dog's behaviors and habits so you can give your vet all of the information needed to make a diagnosis. He will do an exam to look for the cause and prescribe proper treatment and procedures.
Potential causes and conditions
Infections and chronic coughing are common sources of a sore throat. Parvovirus, strep throat, distemper, and herpes virus are among other causes. Tonsillitis causes a sore throat but is rarely a primary infection. It is most common in small breeds.
Chronic infections in the mouth associated with tartar buildup also commonly result in a sore throat or tonsillitis. If your dog has an anal gland infection and licks at it, his throat could develop an infection. Other causes include kennel cough infections or an irritant lodged in the throat.
Dogs who pull on their leash may have more throat soreness since collars put pressure on the neck. A harness is safer than clipping your dog's leash to his collar. Unlike collars, harnesses take pressure off the trachea, which can help prevent throat injuries and soreness in your canine.
Dog sore throat veterinary treatment options
The most effective treatment of a sore throat is to treat the cause, but if it is unknown, antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medication are often effective ways to treat dog throat infection symptoms. Tartar buildup, for example, may lead to a throat-irritating infection. A dental cleaning and anti-inflammatory medications might be recommended along with antibiotics.
Kennel cough can cause a sore throat but typically does not require veterinary intervention. The condition can be prevented with regular Bordetella vaccinations. In addition, your veterinarian may recommend at-home remedies to help your dog feel more comfortable.
Dog throat irritation home remedies
You can provide relief for your dog's throat infection symptoms by feeding her canned food with added water to soothe her throat and keep her hydrated. A little honey, which has natural antibiotic properties, may help the underlying condition and soothe a sore throat. Give your dog 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of honey three to four times per day to help with infected throat symptoms.
Coconut oil also shows infection-fighting properties that may help treat the underlying cause of the sore throat, but it may cause your dog to develop loose stools. Feeding up to 2 teaspoons of coconut oil per 10 pounds of body weight per day may help fight infections. Honey and coconut oil may be administered together.
Herbal remedies may also help relieve a cough. Teas or cough syrups that contain ingredients like licorice, sage leaves, slippery elm, and rose hips may help reduce coughing and can help a sore throat. However, always contact your veterinarian before giving these or any other home remedies.