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Respiratorias

Pulmonary oedema

A build-up of fluid in the lungs that prevents proper oxygenation. It is a respiratory emergency.

Veterinary emergency🐕 Dogs🐈 Cats

This may be a veterinary emergency

ABSOLUTE EMERGENCY: any difficulty breathing with bluish gums or a cough with pink foam needs veterinary attention IMMEDIATELY.

Symptoms to watch for

  • Difficulty breathing, rapid breathing
  • Coughing, sometimes with pink foam
  • Bluish or pale gums
  • Restlessness, unable to get comfortable
  • Posture to breathe more easily: standing, elbows held apart
  • Weakness

Causes

Cardiac cause (heart failure, the most common) or non-cardiac cause (electrocution, heatstroke, near-drowning, severe reactions).

Diagnosis

Chest X-ray plus cardiac assessment. Diagnosis must be rapid.

Treatment

EMERGENCY: oxygen, diuretics to remove the fluid, and treatment of the underlying cause. Hospitalisation.

Prevention

Keep heart disease under control, avoid the non-cardiac causes (electrocution, heatstroke).

When should you see the vet?

ABSOLUTE EMERGENCY: any difficulty breathing with bluish gums or a cough with pink foam needs veterinary attention IMMEDIATELY.

WetAi guides you and takes you to the vet; it does not diagnose.

Notice: this information is for general guidance and educational purposes only. It does NOT replace diagnosis or treatment by a registered veterinary surgeon. If you notice any symptoms, always consult a professional. Wallapets accepts no responsibility for the use of this information without veterinary supervision.