What is Aspiration Pneumonia in Dogs?
Aspiration pneumonia is inflammation of the lungs caused by inhaling foreign material such as food, vomit, or liquid into the airways leading to the lungs [1]. It occurs when foreign matter enters the trachea and primary bronchi instead of the esophagus [2].
Unlike regular pneumonia which is caused by a bacterial, viral, or fungal infection, aspiration pneumonia is caused by the inhalation of irritating gastric contents into the lungs. The severity depends on the material inhaled and the amount that reaches the lungs [3].
Causes and Risk Factors
Aspiration pneumonia in dogs occurs when foreign material, such as food, liquid, vomit or regurgitated stomach contents, are inhaled or aspirated into the lungs. This can lead to inflammation and infection in the lungs. Some of the main causes and risk factors for aspiration pneumonia in dogs include:
Eating or drinking too quickly – Dogs that eat or drink too fast may accidentally inhale some of their food or water into their airways and lungs, leading to aspiration pneumonia. Eating too quickly does not allow sufficient time to properly chew and swallow food.
Underlying conditions like dysphagia, megaesophagus, laryngeal paralysis, etc. – Dogs with conditions affecting their throat and esophagus muscles often have trouble swallowing properly. This increases their risk of inhaling food and liquids into their lungs and developing aspiration pneumonia [1].
Older dogs at higher risk – Senior dogs, especially those over 10 years old, are more prone to developing aspiration pneumonia. Their throat muscles may weaken with age, and conditions like cognitive dysfunction or dementia can increase their risk [2].
Symptoms
The most common symptoms of aspiration pneumonia in dogs include:
Coughing or gagging after eating or drinking is one of the key signs of aspiration pneumonia in dogs, as food or liquid enters the trachea instead of the esophagus, irritating the lungs (Source). Dogs may cough violently or make gagging sounds when trying to swallow or directly after eating or drinking.
Labored breathing or rapid breathing is another symptom, as the lungs struggle to function and get enough oxygen. Dogs with aspiration pneumonia may seem short of breath.
A fever often accompanies aspiration pneumonia, as the dog’s immune system responds to fight the infection. A dog with aspiration pneumonia may have a fever of 103 to 106 degrees Fahrenheit.
Loss of appetite is common, as eating and drinking causes discomfort and coughing. Dogs with aspiration pneumonia tend to lose interest in food and water.
Lethargy and fatigue are also potential signs, as the dog’s body is working hard to fight off infection and regain normal lung function. Dogs with aspiration pneumonia may appear listless and lack energy.
Diagnosis
To diagnose aspiration pneumonia, a veterinarian will first take a thorough medical history and ask about recent episodes of vomiting, regurgitation or difficulty swallowing. They will listen to the dog’s chest with a stethoscope for abnormal breathing sounds.
Chest x-rays are usually needed to confirm the diagnosis and check the extent and location of lung inflammation. The x-rays may show a lung consolidation or patchy areas of inflammation in the lungs.
Blood work such as a complete blood count and biochemistry profile can check for signs of infection and how well organs are functioning. Tests like blood cultures may be done to identify the organism causing the infection.
Other diagnostic tests can check for underlying conditions that may have contributed to aspiration pneumonia, like endoscopy to examine the esophagus or tests to evaluate the larynx and pharynx. https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/respiratory/aspiration-pneumonia-dogs
Treatment
The main treatments for aspiration pneumonia in dogs include:
- Oxygen therapy to improve oxygen levels in the blood and lungs. This may involve an oxygen cage, oxygen mask, or nasal cannula.
- Antibiotics like amoxicillin or doxycycline to fight infection. Antibiotics are typically given for 2-4 weeks. Source
- Anti-inflammatories like prednisone to reduce inflammation in the lungs.
- Nebulization with saline or medications to loosen secretions and open airways.
- Feeding tube if the dog is unable to eat safely. This prevents further aspiration.
- Treating any underlying conditions like megaesophagus that may have caused aspiration.
With aggressive therapy, most dogs recover fully from aspiration pneumonia within a few weeks. However, the prognosis depends on how quickly treatment is started and the severity of lung damage. Patients with severe aspiration pneumonia may require hospitalization in an intensive care unit.
Prevention
There are several steps pet owners can take to help prevent aspiration pneumonia in dogs:
Slow down your dog’s eating and drinking by using puzzle feeders or spreading kibble on a cookie sheet. Gulping food or water can increase the risk of aspiration.
Elevate your dog’s food and water bowls to promote better swallowing posture and gravity flow of food. Bowls placed on the floor can contribute to aspiration.
Feed smaller, more frequent meals instead of one large daily meal. This reduces instances of speed eating.
Avoid vigorous exercise right before or after your dog eats, as physical exertion can increase the chance of vomiting or regurgitation.
Treat any underlying conditions that could lead to aspiration, like gastrointestinal disease, laryngeal paralysis, or neurological issues. Work with your vet to properly manage these conditions.
See the Wag Walking and PetMD resources for more tips on prevention.
Prognosis
The prognosis for dogs with aspiration pneumonia depends significantly on the severity of the condition and how quickly it is treated. According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, the prognosis is generally poor, even with treatment, and the mortality rate can be high1. However, other sources indicate more positive outcomes when treatment is administered promptly. One study found a survival rate of 77-81.6% for dogs with aspiration pneumonia2.
The key factors affecting prognosis include:
- Severity of inflammation and infection
- Presence of underlying conditions such as megaesophagus
- Speed of treatment after aspiration occurs
- Age and overall health of the dog
While many dogs recover fully with supportive care and antibiotics, aspiration pneumonia can be fatal in severe cases where treatment is delayed or inadequate. Close monitoring and follow-up care are imperative, even after initial improvement.
Coping with Loss
Losing a pet can be absolutely devastating. Your dog was a beloved family member and coping with their loss is a difficult process. Here are some tips that may help:
Allow yourself to grieve. The death of a pet is a true loss, so don’t feel ashamed about grieving. Give yourself time to fully process the emotions and mourn your dog. Crying, being angry, and feeling depressed are normal reactions.
Create a memorial for your dog. Do something meaningful to honor your pet’s memory like making a photo album or collage, planting a tree or flowers, creating a special space in your home, or holding a ceremony. This can provide closure.
Focus on positive memories. While the end was traumatic, try to remember the joy your dog brought to your life. Reflect on favorite stories, their endearing quirks, and your happiest times together.
Consider pet loss counseling or a support group. Speaking with others who have gone through this experience can help. Many vet offices, shelters, or human societies offer bereavement services. Talking it through may ease your sadness.
Preventing Aspiration Pneumonia in Other Pets
If your dog passed away from aspiration pneumonia, it’s understandable to worry about your other pets. There are several things you can do to help prevent aspiration pneumonia in your other dogs or cats:
- Follow the prevention tips mentioned earlier, like feeding pets from elevated bowls, avoiding vigorous exercise after meals, and carefully monitoring pets after anesthesia or sedation.
- Closely monitor your other pets’ eating habits to watch for signs of difficulty swallowing or changes in food motivation.
- Bring your other pets in for regular veterinary checkups to identify any underlying conditions that could increase aspiration risk like periodontal disease, megaesophagus, or laryngeal paralysis (wagwalking.com).
While nothing can fully prevent aspiration, being vigilant about your pets’ health and making sensible adjustments like slow feeding can help minimize risks. If you notice any concerning symptoms in your other pets, don’t hesitate to consult your veterinarian.
When to Seek Help
You should seek immediate veterinary care if you suspect your dog has aspirated and is showing signs of aspiration pneumonia. According to petMD, symptoms such as coughing, breathing difficulties, lethargy, and lack of appetite can appear within hours or days of aspiration.
Bring your dog to the vet right away if you notice any symptoms of aspiration pneumonia like labored breathing, fever, or bluish gums. Rapid treatment is key, as aspiration pneumonia can quickly become life-threatening. Your vet will be able to assess your dog’s condition, provide oxygen support if needed, and start antibiotics or other medications.
You should also have annual check-ups with your vet for older dogs or breeds prone to aspiration, even if they seem healthy. Your vet can identify any underlying conditions that increase aspiration risk and suggest preventative measures. Catching problems early on gives your dog the best chance of recovering from aspiration pneumonia.