The trachea, also known as the windpipe, is a hollow tube that connects the larynx (voice box) to the lungs. It is an important structure within the respiratory system which delivers oxygen to the bloodstream.
A collapsing trachea is a condition in which the trachea narrows during breathing causing obstruction of the airway. It is relatively common in dogs, with small breeds being most susceptible. Cats can also suffer from a collapsing trachea, although the condition is far less common.
Causes of Collapsing Trachea
A collapsing trachea is often caused by a congenital (present at birth) condition. In some animals, the rings of cartilage that support the structure of the trachea are soft and improperly formed. This can cause the trachea to collapse during the normal act of breathing. Congenital causes of a collapsing trachea are especially common in small breed dogs such as Yorkshire Terriers, Pugs, and Toy Poodles.
Tracheal collapse may also be caused by underlying health conditions including chronic respiratory disease and Cushing’s disease. Other contributing factors may include nerve damage and trauma to the windpipe. A collapsing trachea is also more common in senior and overweight pets.
Symptoms of Collapsing Trachea
The most common symptom of a collapsing trachea is a dry cough with a distinctive honking sound. It is often triggered by exercise or overexcitement. Other symptoms that can indicate the condition is more advanced include difficulty breathing, intolerance to exercise, retching, wheezing, and fainting. It is important to visit your veterinarian as soon as possible if you notice any of these symptoms.
Diagnosis of Collapsing Trachea
If a collapsing trachea is suspected, your veterinarian will perform a thorough physical examination of your pet to rule out other illnesses or injuries. Diagnostic imaging, such as chest X-rays and fluoroscopy, a type of moving X-ray, are also important to assess damage to the trachea.
Your veterinarian may perform an endoscopy, which involves placing a scope into the trachea to view the inside of the airway. Other diagnostic tests include taking tissue samples from the inside of the trachea for bacterial analysis, and ultrasounds of the heart to rule out underlying cardiac issues.
Treatment of Collapsing Trachea
Treatment of a collapsing trachea will depend on the severity of your pet’s condition. Very mild cases may not require treatment, but most pets are treated with medications such as cough suppressants, sedatives, and bronchodilators to reduce symptoms.
For severe cases of collapsing trachea, your veterinarian may recommend surgery as the best course of treatment. This typically involves the insertion of plastic rings or stents to hold the trachea open.
If your pet has been diagnosed with a collapsing trachea, there are several measures you can take to speed up their recovery. These include weight management, reducing exposure to environmental allergens, limiting exercise, and using a harness instead of a collar. Your veterinarian will provide you with a full list of treatment recommendations.
Prevention of Collapsing Trachea
Unfortunately, tracheal collapse is difficult to prevent as it is often caused by congenital conditions. The best way to protect your pet is by visiting your veterinarian as soon as you notice any symptoms of the condition.
