Dog Keeps Swallowing Like Hiccups
It is not uncommon to see a dog suddenly start swallowing like it has hiccups. This involuntary action, which is also known as reverse sneezing, is a common occurrence among many breeds of dogs. It can be alarming to see, and if you are not familiar with it, you may be wondering what is going on.
What Is Reverse Sneezing?
Reverse sneezing is a common condition in dogs that is caused by an irritation in the throat or nasal passages. It is not a serious condition and does not require medical attention. It is usually caused by a mild irritation in the throat and can be caused by anything from a foreign object, dust, pollen, or a sudden change in temperature. The irritation triggers a spasm of the throat muscles, and the dog will start to make loud, rapid inhalations, almost like it is snorting. The dog may also extend its neck and arch its back, as if it is trying to get as much air as possible.
How Can You Help a Dog that Is Reverse Sneezing?
If you see your dog reverse sneezing, the best thing to do is to remain calm and try to soothe your pet. You can do this by talking to it in a calm, soothing voice, or by gently rubbing its throat. This should help to stop the reverse sneezing episode. If the episode continues for more than a few minutes, you should take the dog to the vet to rule out any underlying causes.
What Causes Reverse Sneezing?
There are several potential causes of reverse sneezing. As previously mentioned, it can be caused by a mild irritation in the throat or nasal passages, such as a foreign object, dust, pollen, or a sudden change in temperature. It can also be caused by an infection, allergies, or a tumor. If your dog is reverse sneezing on a regular basis, it is important to take it to the vet to rule out any underlying causes.
Can Reverse Sneezing Be Prevented?
Unfortunately, there is no way to completely prevent reverse sneezing. However, there are some things you can do to reduce the risk of your dog experiencing reverse sneezing episodes. Make sure your dog is up to date on its vaccinations, and keep its living environment as clean as possible. If your dog has allergies, make sure to keep it away from any potential allergens. Additionally, if you notice your dog has a tendency to reverse sneeze when it is overexcited, make sure to keep it calm and avoid any situations that may trigger the episodes.
When Should You See a Vet?
If your dog is reverse sneezing on a regular basis, or if the episodes last for more than a few minutes, it is important to take your pet to the vet to rule out any underlying causes. Additionally, if the reverse sneezing is accompanied by other symptoms, such as coughing, gagging, or vomiting, it is important to take your pet to the vet as soon as possible.
Conclusion
Reverse sneezing is a common condition in dogs that is caused by an irritation in the throat or nasal passages. It is usually not a serious condition and does not require medical attention. However, if your dog is reverse sneezing on a regular basis, or if the episodes last for more than a few minutes, it is important to take your pet to the vet to rule out any underlying causes. Additionally, there are some things you can do to reduce the risk of your dog experiencing reverse sneezing episodes, such as keeping your pet up to date on its vaccinations and keeping its living environment as clean as possible.