Collapsing trachea in dogs is a very common canine respiratory issue these days. While it has no cure currently, you can support your pet by alleviating stress and relieving the symptoms caused by inflammation.
Luckily, there are several ways to enhance your dog’s quality of life, such as CBD for dogs with collapsed trachea. Let’s go deeper into what it is and how you can make your dog’s life better in this condition.
What Is Tracheal Collapse?
Tracheal collapse is a degenerative, progressive respiratory condition, often recognized by the goose-like coughing, and honking it can cause in dogs.
It mostly affects toy breed dogs like Pomeranians, chihuahuas, Yorkshire terriers, and mini-schnauzers, though it can harm dogs of all sizes and shapes.
Collapsed dog trachea involves the breakdown of the trachea, which connects the nasal passageway to the lungs. The trachea (windpipe) is the tube that connects the lungs to the throat.
It is held open by rings of cartilage, like a vacuum cleaner hose, which helps maintain its shape. This lets air travel unobstructed from the mouth to the lungs and back.
These flexible rings of cartilage are only about 80% of the circumference of the trachea – the rest is made up of soft tissue. Rather than a whole circle, the trachea’s structural rings are U-shaped.
A collapsed doggy trachea happens when these rings of the trachea get weaker and cannot maintain the open structure of the airway. The soft tissue begins to sag and ultimately blocks the tube and the flow of air with it.
Without these rings, it would be impossible to breathe. Imagine trying to drink a milkshake through a flat straw. That’s your dog trying to breathe through their collapsing trachea.
What Are the Causes of Dogs’ Collapsed Tracheas?
Here are some causes of dogs’ collapsed tracheas:
Chronic Coughing
Frequent coughing due to allergies, infections, or respiratory diseases can strain the tracheal tissues over time, leading to weakening and ultimately collapse. Persistent coughing exerts continuous pressure on the trachea, exacerbating the condition.
Obesity
Excessive weight in dogs can put extra pressure on the trachea, leading to its collapse. Obesity increases the pressure on the airways, making them more prone to collapse, especially during excitement or physical activity.
Issues with the heart
Heart issues such as congestive heart failure can cause enlargement of the heart, which can put a strain on the trachea. This added strain can lead to the collapse of the trachea over time.
Environmental Irritants
Exposure to environmental irritants like dust, smoke, pollution, or strong chemicals can lead to irritation and inflammation of the tracheal lining. Chronic exposure to these irritants can weaken the walls of the trachea and increase the risk of collapse.
Wear & Tear
As dogs grow old, the cartilage in their trachea may deteriorate naturally, leading to the weakening of the tracheal rings. This wear and tear over time can lead to the collapse of the trachea, mainly in older dogs.
Trauma or Injury
Traumatic events such as collar injury or a sharp blow to the neck can lead to damaged trachea and predispose it to collapse. Trauma-induced injuries can weaken the structural integrity of the trachea, making it more prone to collapse, especially if not treated promptly and properly.
Can CBD Help a Collapsed Trachea in Dogs?
Yes, CBD can help a collapsed trachea in dogs, here’s how:
Reduction of Inflammation
CBD is known for its anti-inflammatory qualities, which may alleviate inflammation in the tracheal tissues. By relieving inflammation, CBD could decrease irritation and swelling in the trachea, easing breathing difficulties associated with collapsed doggy trachea.
Anxiety Relief
Dogs with collapsed trachea may experience anxiety due to difficulty in breathing and discomfort. CBD has anxiolytic effects, helping to promote relaxation and calm nervousness. Reduced anxiety may lead to overall comfort for dogs suffering from this condition.
Muscle Relaxation
CBD has muscle-relaxant qualities, which could be effective for dogs with collapsed trachea. Relaxing the muscles surrounding the trachea may reduce pressure and tension on the airway, potentially easing breathing efforts.
Antispasmodic
CBD may act as an antispasmodic agent, helping to reduce or prevent spasms in the trachea muscles. By inhibiting muscle contractions, CBD could alleviate the characteristic gagging and coughing associated with collapsed dog trachea.
Analgesic
CBD has analgesic qualities, providing pain relief that could benefit dogs with collapsed trachea. Chronic inflammation and irritation in the trachea can lead to soreness and discomfort, and CBD may help mitigate these symptoms.
Improved Breathing Comfort
Collectively, the muscle-relaxant, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic qualities of CBD may lead to improved breathing comfort for dogs with collapsed doggy trachea.
By addressing underlying factors such as muscle tension and inflammation, CBD could enhance respiratory functions and overall well-being.
What Are the Symptoms of Canine Collapsed Trachea?
Here are some symptoms of canine collapsed trachea:
Breathing fast
Dogs with collapsed trachea may show labored or rapid breathing, especially during excitement or physical activity. The increased effort needed to breathe due to narrowed airways can lead to faster respiration.
Honking Cough
One of the biggest symptoms of a collapsed dog trachea is a strange honking cough, often explained as a dry, harsh sound resembling a goose honk. This cough usually happens when the dog is excited, engages in a strenuous activity, or pulls on the leash.
Blue gums when anxious or excited
In some cases, dogs with a collapsed trachea may show cyanosis, making their gums look bluish-purple. This discoloration usually happens when the dog is anxious, excited, or going through respiratory distress due to insufficient oxygenation.
Exercise Intolerance
Because of the compromised airflow associated with a collapsed doggy trachea, affected dogs may show intolerance to exercise. They may get quickly tired or show reluctance to engage in physical activities due to difficulty in breathing.
Fainting
Severe cases of collapsed trachea can lead to fainting, particularly during moments of increased respiratory stress or effort. Fainting may happen due to decreased oxygen delivery to important organs resulting from restricted airflow through the trachea.
Changes in Breathing When Lifted
When held or lifted, dogs with collapsed dog trachea may show noticeable changes in their pattern of breathing. They may struggle to breathe deeply or show increased respiratory effort, reflecting the impact of tracheal collapse on their ability to breathe with comfort.
How to Help Your Dog With a Collapsed Trachea?
Here’s how you can help your dog with a collapsed trachea:
Anti-inflammatory medications
Anti-inflammatory drugs such as corticosteroids or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can reduce inflammation in the trachea, alleviating discomfort and swelling.
These medications may be prescribed by a vet to manage chronic inflammation associated with collapsed doggy trachea.
Pain relievers
Pain management is important for dogs with collapsed trachea, as inflammation and irritation can cause soreness and discomfort. Veterinarians may prescribe pain relievers such as gabapentin or tramadol to relieve discomfort and enhance the dog’s overall well-being.
Environmental Control
Minimizing exposure to environmental irritants such as dust, smoke, and pollution can reduce irritation and inflammation in the trachea.
Keeping the dog in a well-ventilated and clean environment can lead to respiratory comfort and minimize exacerbations of symptoms.
Minimise Stress & Excitement
Excitement and stress can exacerbate symptoms of collapsed trachea in dogs. Minimizing stressors and offering a low-stress, calm environment can reduce episodes of respiratory distress and coughing.
Gentle handling and avoiding situations that cause stress/anxiety can promote the dog’s well-being and comfort.
Bronchodilators
Bronchodilators may be prescribed to dilate the airways and improve airflow in dogs with collapsed trachea.
These medications can alleviate breathing issues and reduce the severity and frequency of coughing episodes. However, their usage must be supervised by a veterinarian to ensure effectiveness and proper dosage.
How to Give CBD Oil to Dogs?
Here’s how you can give CBD oil to your dog:
Mix CBD Oil into Homemade Treats
One way is to incorporate CBD oil into homemade snacks or treats. This allows for easy ingestion, masking the taste of the oil while offering a delicious reward for your pooch.
Pick CBD Oil Flavors Your Dog Likes
Choose CBD oils with flavors that interest your dog, such as chicken or beef, to enhance palatability. Feel free to experiment with different flavors to find the one your dog relishes the most.
Give CBD Oil Directly with a Dropper
Administer CBD oil directly into your dog’s mouth with a dropper. Just lift your dog’s lip and place the recommended dosage of oil under the tongue or along the gums for quicker absorption.
Choose the Right Dosage
Consult your veterinarian to determine the right dosage of CBD oil for your dog based on factors like health condition, weight, and the severity of symptoms. Begin with a low dose and slowly increase as required while observing your dog’s response.
Apply CBD Topically in Dogs
For skin conditions or localized issues, consider applying CBD oil topically. Apply a small amount of oil onto the affected area and massage gently into the skin for potential relief from discomfort or inflammation.
When administering CBD oil to your dog, it’s important to monitor their response carefully. Look for any signs of changes in behavior or adverse reactions, and adjust the dosage or administration method as required.
Moreover, make sure that you’re using high-quality CBD oil specifically made for pets to ensure effectiveness and safety. Always seek guidance from a veterinarian before beginning any new supplement routine for your dog.
CBD Dosage for Collapsed Trachea in Dogs
Despite common misconceptions, dosing CBD doesn’t have much to do with your dog’s weight and size. Sensitivity can vary greatly between dogs, and can even change with time, based on chronic illness or age.
Therefore, dosage is most effectively determined with consideration for each animal’s unique physiological status. For collapsed doggy trachea, we advise a 9-18 mg dosage per day.
How Do You Choose the Best CBD Oil for a Dog’s Collapsed Trachea?
Here are some expert tips for choosing the best CBD oil for a dog’s collapsed trachea:
Choose High-Quality CBD Products
Opt for reputable brands known for making high-quality CBD products specifically made for pets. Look for companies with a track record of quality control, transparency, and positive customer reviews.
Consider the Source & Quality
Choose CBD oil made from naturally grown hemp plants to minimize the risk of exposure to herbicides, pesticides, and other harmful chemicals.
High-quality hemp extraction methods, such as C02 extraction, ensure the purity of the cannabinoids and preserve their integrity.
Check for Third-Party Lab Testing
Make sure that the CBD oil goes through 3rd-party lab tests to assess its purity, potency, and safety. Lab reports should be available and accessible, providing transparency regarding the product’s cannabinoid profile and absence of contaminants.
Look for Organic & Natural Ingredients
Choose CBD oils that have natural and organic ingredients to minimize the risk of adverse effects or allergic reactions. Avoid products with artificial flavors, additives, or preservatives that may compromise the oil’s purity and quality.
Choose the Right Concentration & Dosage
Choose CBD oil with an appropriate dosage strength and concentration suitable for your dog’s weight, size, and individual needs. Start with a low dose and slowly increase as required while monitoring your dog’s response carefully.
Consulting your veterinarian can help determine the optimal dosage for your pet’s specific condition.
Conclusion
In the end, you are your pet’s best friend. So with the help of an expert vet, you can find the perfect combination of natural and western style treatment of collapsed trachea in dogs.
There are so many things that you can do to slow down the progression of this disease naturally. For example, CBD from a full-spectrum extract is great for a dog’s immune system, mental health, and mobility.
Moreover, CBD for collapsed trachea in dogs shows the promise to replace the 5 main types of medication used by conventional vets to treat your dog’s collapsing trachea.
At last, along with using a full-spectrum hemp extract for tracheal collapse, try out the following ways in which you can strengthen your pet’s defenses against collapsed dog trachea:
- Avoid collars which can further harm the trachea.
- Feed a fresh and appropriate diet designed to reduce allergies and inflammation.
- Use HEPA air filters that keep the air in your home allergen-free.
- Avoid products that have artificial fragrances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does CBD help with cough?
Yes, CBD may have the potential to relieve cough due to its anti-inflammatory qualities, but more research is required for conclusive evidence.
Does CBD help soothe dogs with collapsed trachea naturally?
Yes, CBD might offer natural relief for dogs with collapsed trachea by calming discomfort and reducing inflammation, but always consult a vet for guidance.
Can CBD help my dog with laryngeal paralysis?
Yes, CBD may provide relief for dogs with laryngeal paralysis by easing anxiety and inflammation, but veterinary consultation is important.
What does a tracheal collapse dog sound like?
Tracheal collapse dog sounds like a gagging noise or honking cough, especially during physical activity or excitement.
Can I give CBD to dogs with breathing problems?
Yes, CBD could be considered for dogs with breathing issues, but talk to a veterinarian for proper treatment instead of dog tracheal collapse home treatment.
Can I give CBD to a dog with cough medicine?
No, it’s best to avoid giving CBD with cough medicine to dogs without veterinary consultation to stay away from potential interactions or adverse effects.