Understanding Reverse Sneezing in Dogs

Reverse sneezing happens when dogs try to pull air into their noses instead of pushing it out like in a regular sneeze. This helps them get rid of whatever is irritating their throat or nasal passages. Imagine having a tickle in the back of your throat that you can't reach. Dogs can't scratch it with their tongues like we can, so they do a reverse sneeze instead. This reflex helps them clear out the irritation. It's a bit like how we might gulp down water to ease a tickle in our throats.

For dogs, this action is completely natural and serves an important function in keeping their nasal passages clear of irritants.

When dogs experience normal sneezing, it’s usually because dust or an irritant enters their noses. They sneeze to push the irritant out. Reverse sneezing happens when something irritates the back of the dog's throat, specifically the nasopharynx, which is the area above the soft palate and behind the nasal passages. The irritation makes their throats spasm, causing them to stretch their necks and make those odd snorting sounds as they try to breathe in deeply.

This process might seem uncomfortable, but it's their body's way of dealing with irritants that are located too far back in the throat to be expelled by a regular sneeze.

Not all dogs will experience reverse sneezing, but it is common in certain breeds. Dogs with short, flat faces like pugs, French bulldogs, and boxers (brachycephalic breeds) are more prone to it. Smaller breeds like beagles and Yorkshire terriers also tend to have more episodes. While reverse sneezing can sound scary, it usually doesn’t last long or happen very often. Episodes typically last from a few seconds to a couple of minutes, and they may occur more frequently in certain seasons or environments.

Understanding which breeds are more susceptible can help you better prepare and respond when your dog experiences an episode.

While getting an irritant is the number one reason that dogs reverse sneezes, there can be other causes that get your dog making the sounds. These include:

• Irritants: Dust, pollen, or strong odors can easily trigger an episode.
• Excitement: Getting overly excited or stimulated can cause an episode.
• Eating or Drinking Quickly: Gulping down food or water too fast can be a trigger.
• Exercise Intolerance: Overexertion or too much physical activity can lead to reverse sneezing.
• Straining at the Lead: Pulling too hard on the leash during walks can cause irritation.
• Mites or Viruses: Infections or parasites in the nasal passages can be underlying causes.
• Allergies: Seasonal allergies or reactions to certain substances can trigger sneezing.

Understanding these triggers can help you manage your dog’s environment and reduce the frequency of reverse sneezing episodes. For instance, you might need to limit exposure to certain allergens or modify your dog's exercise routine.

Reverse sneezing sounds like a series of rapid, loud, inhaling sneezes, almost like a honking or choking noise. It’s important to know what it sounds like so you don’t confuse it with choking or other respiratory issues. Some pet owners describe it as a snorting sound that can be quite alarming the first time they hear it. Unlike choking, where the dog may struggle to breathe, reverse sneezing episodes are generally brief and self-limiting.

Recognizing the sound and the context in which it occurs can help you stay calm and provide appropriate care without unnecessary panic.

When your dog has a reverse sneezing episode, the best thing you can do is stay calm. Dogs can pick up on your anxiety, which might make them more stressed. Here are some things you can try:

• Gently massage their throat: This can help stop the spasms and soothe the irritation.
• Cover their nostrils briefly: This encourages them to swallow, which can clear the irritation.
• Blow in their face: A light puff of air can help your dog swallow and stop sneezing.

If your dog has frequent episodes, try to identify and remove potential allergens or irritants from their environment. Keeping a log of when and where episodes occur can help you and your vet pinpoint specific triggers and create a plan to manage them more effectively.

Sometimes, reverse sneezing can be a sign of an underlying health issue. Vets will examine your dog’s mouth and respiratory tract and may take a health history to understand the problem better. Common health issues include:

• Nasal Mites: Parasites that live in the nasal passages and cause irritation.
• Infections: Viral or bacterial infections that inflame the nasal passages.
• Foreign Bodies: Objects stuck in the nasal passages can cause persistent irritation.
• Growths: Tumors or polyps that need medical attention.

It's important to address these issues promptly to prevent them from causing more serious health problems. Regular veterinary check-ups can help detect and treat these conditions early, ensuring your dog stays healthy and comfortable.

Most reverse sneezing episodes are harmless, but you should call your vet if your dog shows other symptoms like loss of appetite, nasal discharge, or unusual behavior. Chronic reverse sneezing might indicate a more serious condition like an infection, severe allergy, or anatomical abnormality. If you notice that episodes are becoming more frequent or severe, or if your dog seems distressed, it's best to seek veterinary advice.

Your vet can perform a thorough examination and recommend appropriate treatments or lifestyle changes to help manage the condition effectively.

To diagnose the cause of reverse sneezing, vets will:

• Check your dog’s exposure to irritants and review their health history.
• Perform a physical exam and possibly blood tests to rule out infections.
• Use additional tests like chest X-rays, sedated oral and nasal exams, or rhinoscopy to look for other conditions.

These diagnostic steps help identify any underlying issues that might be contributing to the reverse sneezing. By pinpointing the exact cause, your vet can recommend the most effective treatment plan, ensuring your dog gets the care they need to stay healthy and happy.

Most dogs don’t need medication for reverse sneezing. However, for frequent or severe cases, vets might prescribe:

• Antihistamines: For managing allergies and reducing sneezing episodes.
• Steroids: For severe inflammation or chronic issues.
• Anti-parasitics: For treating nasal mites and other parasites.

Long-term management strategies involve reducing exposure to known allergens or irritants. Keeping your dog’s environment clean and minimizing their exposure to potential triggers can significantly reduce the frequency of reverse sneezing episodes. Regular veterinary care and monitoring can also help keep the condition under control.

While you can’t completely prevent reverse sneezing, you can reduce the chances by:

• Avoiding heavily scented products that can irritate your dog’s nasal passages.
• Keeping your home’s air clean with good ventilation and clean filters.
• Maintaining your dog’s dental hygiene to prevent oral health issues.
• Using a short, flat lead to minimize exposure to environmental allergens during walks.

These preventive measures can help create a healthier environment for your dog, reducing the likelihood of reverse sneezing episodes. Consistent care and attention to your dog’s needs will go a long way in managing this condition effectively.

Reverse sneezing is rare in cats, but it can happen, especially in flat-faced breeds like Persians. If your cat has frequent episodes, it’s important to seek veterinary help. Just like with dogs, reverse sneezing in cats can indicate underlying health issues that need to be addressed. Regular check-ups and a clean, allergen-free environment can help prevent and manage reverse sneezing in cats, ensuring they remain healthy and comfortable.

Wrapping it up

Understanding and managing reverse sneezing in dogs can make it less scary. Remember, it’s usually a harmless condition that doesn’t require extensive treatment. Regular vet check-ups and observing your dog’s behavior will help keep them healthy and happy. If you’re ever unsure, don’t hesitate to consult your vet for advice. By staying informed and proactive, you can ensure your dog lives a comfortable and healthy life, free from the stress and discomfort of frequent reverse sneezing episodes.