Pets express themselves in many ways—and respiratory sounds are an important part of their communication. Some noises are completely normal, while others can be early signs of illness. As a pet owner, knowing how to tell the difference can help you act quickly when it matters most.

In this guide, we’ll explore the most common respiratory noises in pets, what they might mean, and when it’s time to call your veterinarian.

If you’re ever unsure about your pet’s breathing, contact Peak Pet Urgent Care for fast, compassionate guidance.

Common Respiratory Noises in Pets and What They Mean

Coughing: More Than Just a Throat Tickler

Coughing is one of the most common respiratory symptoms in pets—and it can have many causes.

Possible Causes:

  • Kennel Cough (CIRDC): Often contracted in kennels, daycare, or dog parks
    Learn more about kennel cough – AKC
  • Heart Disease or Heart Failure: Can cause fluid to accumulate in the lungs
  • Collapsed Trachea: Common in small dogs, causes a distinct honking sound
    Collapsed Trachea in Dogs – AKC
  • Lung Infections, Pneumonia, or Cancer: Require prompt diagnosis and treatment

When to Call the Vet:

  • Coughing lasts longer than a few days
  • Happens at night or during rest
  • Accompanied by labored breathing, blue gums, or weakness

Sneezing: From Irritation to Infection

Sneezing is usually harmless—but sometimes it’s a red flag.

Common Causes:

  • Environmental Irritants: Dust, smoke, cleaning products, pollen
  • Respiratory Infections: Especially in cats; can cause fever, discharge, and lethargy
    Feline Upper Respiratory Infections – ASPCA Pro
  • Dental Disease: Infections can affect the nasal cavity
  • Nasal Tumors: More common in older pets

When to Call the Vet:

  • Persistent sneezing with discharge (especially bloody or yellow/green)
  • Swelling around the nose or face
  • Loss of appetite or energy

Wheezing and Labored Breathing: Signals Not to Ignore

Wheezing may sound like high-pitched whistling or difficulty breathing and often requires medical attention.

Possible Causes:

Urgent Warning Signs:

  • Open-mouth breathing or panting while at rest
  • Gums appear pale, blue, or gray
  • Sudden collapse or severe weakness

Reverse Sneezing: Scary but Often Harmless

Reverse sneezing can look and sound dramatic, but it’s usually harmless.

What It Sounds Like:

  • Snorting or honking noises
  • Episodes that last 10–30 seconds

Triggers:

  • Excitement, pulling on the leash, allergens, or nasal irritation
  • Can be linked to a collapsing trachea in small breeds

When to Be Concerned:

  • Episodes become frequent or prolonged
  • Associated with true breathing distress or collapse
  • Accompanied by coughing, wheezing, or lethargy

Snoring: Breed Trait or Breathing Problem?

Snoring can be normal, but in some cases, it’s a sign of an underlying issue.

Common Causes:

  • Brachycephalic Breeds: Bulldogs, Pugs, and other short-nosed breeds
    BOAS in Dogs – Cornell Vet
  • Obesity: Increases risk of airway obstruction
  • Nasal Congestion or Polyps

When to Get Help:

  • Snoring worsens or starts suddenly
  • Snoring while awake
  • Difficulty breathing or gagging during sleep

Respiratory Emergency Signs: When to Act Fast

Certain symptoms demand immediate veterinary attention. Call your vet or head to an urgent care clinic if your pet shows:

  • Persistent coughing, wheezing, or gagging
  • Pale, blue, or gray gums or tongue
  • Sudden collapse or extreme weakness
  • Open-mouth breathing (especially in cats)
  • Choking, gagging, or excessive drooling

These signs could indicate a life-threatening condition such as pneumonia, heart failure, heatstroke, or airway obstruction.

Contact Peak Pet Urgent Care immediately if your pet is in distress

Prevention: Keeping Your Pet’s Airways Clear

Routine Veterinary Care

  • Annual wellness exams detect respiratory issues early
  • Keep up with vaccinations, including for kennel cough
  • Use monthly heartworm prevention for dogs

See AVMA/AAHA Canine Preventive Health Guidelines

Reduce Environmental Triggers

  • Use HEPA filters to reduce allergens
  • Avoid smoke, perfumes, and scented cleaning products
  • Limit outdoor activity during high pollen days
  • Wash bedding frequently

Allergy Tips for Small Animals – Purdue Veterinary Hospital

Recognizing Respiratory Red Flags Can Save Lives

Some breathing sounds are harmless—others aren’t. If you’re unsure, it’s always better to err on the side of caution. Early detection and prompt treatment can protect your pet’s health and avoid complications.

If your pet is breathing strangely, coughing, or just “not quite right,” we’re here to help.

Schedule an exam or reach out to Peak Pet Urgent Care