Snoring, Wheezing & Reverse Sneezing in Pets: When Should You Be Concerned?

A sudden snort, a wheezing breath, or a nighttime snore—these sounds might catch your attention and raise an important question: Is my pet okay? While many respiratory noises in dogs and cats are harmless, some may point to underlying health conditions that need immediate attention.

At Sonoran Sky Pet Hospital, we know how confusing it can be to interpret strange respiratory sounds. This guide will help you distinguish between normal pet noises and those that may signal illness—so you can keep your companion safe, healthy, and breathing easy.

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Common Respiratory Sounds in Pets and What They Mean

Coughing in Pets: Just a Tickle or a Warning Sign?

Coughing is one of the most common respiratory complaints in pets. While an occasional cough might be harmless, persistent or unusual coughing should not be ignored.

Potential Causes of Coughing:

When to Contact Your Vet:

  • Coughing persists more than a few days
  • Your pet coughs at night or while resting
  • Gagging, retching, or a honking cough is present
  • Lethargy, loss of appetite, or breathing changes accompany the cough

Sneezing in Pets: Harmless or Something More?

Sneezing helps pets clear irritants from their nasal passages, but frequent or violent sneezing may point to something more serious.

Common Causes of Sneezing:

  • Seasonal or Environmental Allergies (dust, pollen, smoke)
  • Viral or Bacterial Infections (especially common in cats from multi-pet homes or shelters)
    Feline respiratory infection info – ASPCA Pro
  • Dental Disease:
    Infections in the upper jaw can extend into the nasal cavity.
  • Nasal Tumors or Polyps:
    More likely in senior pets, especially if there’s nasal bleeding or facial swelling.

When to Seek Veterinary Help:

  • Sneezing with thick, yellow, or green discharge
  • Nosebleeds or swelling near the nose or eyes
  • Sneezing combined with fever or appetite loss

Wheezing and Labored Breathing: A Serious Symptom

Wheezing is the sound of narrowed or inflamed airways. Unlike coughing or sneezing, wheezing always warrants attention.

Possible Causes of Wheezing:

  • Feline Asthma:
    A chronic respiratory condition that can worsen over time.
    Feline asthma explained – Cornell Feline Health Center
  • Allergic Reactions:
    Strong scents, smoke, or environmental allergens can cause wheezing.
  • Heartworm Disease:
    Can obstruct blood flow in the lungs and lead to respiratory distress.
  • Bronchitis or Pneumonia:
    Infections affecting the lower airways can result in wheezing, lethargy, and fever.

Call Your Vet Immediately If You Notice:

  • Open-mouth breathing
  • Gasping or shortness of breath
  • Blue, pale, or gray gums
  • Sudden collapse or extreme lethargy

What Is Reverse Sneezing—and Is It Dangerous?

Reverse sneezing is a rapid, snorting inhalation that can look and sound alarming—but in most cases, it’s harmless.

What It Sounds Like:

  • Sudden snorting, gagging, or honking
  • Lasts a few seconds to a minute
  • Often triggered by excitement, pulling on the leash, or allergens

Possible Causes:

  • Overexcitement or stress
  • Environmental irritants (dust, perfumes)
  • Nasal mites or post-nasal drip
  • Collapsing trachea (especially in small dogs)

When to Be Concerned:

  • Reverse sneezing becomes frequent or prolonged
  • Your pet shows signs of labored breathing
  • There is nasal discharge, coughing, or choking

Snoring in Pets: Cute or Concerning?

A snoring pet may simply be catching some well-deserved rest—but persistent or loud snoring could point to a medical issue.

Common Causes of Snoring:

  • Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome (BOAS):
    Affects flat-faced breeds like Bulldogs, Frenchies, and Persian cats.
    More on BOAS – Cornell
  • Obesity:
    Excess fat around the neck can narrow airways.
  • Nasal Polyps or Infections:
    Chronic congestion can lead to snoring and other breathing problems.

Veterinary Evaluation Is Needed If:

  • Snoring worsens over time or is present while awake
  • Gagging, choking, or frequent coughing occurs
  • Your pet struggles to breathe during sleep

Know the Signs of a Respiratory Emergency

Some respiratory symptoms in pets can indicate a life-threatening emergency.

Seek Emergency Veterinary Care If Your Pet Is:

  • Panting or breathing heavily without activity
  • Collapsing, gagging, or gasping for breath
  • Drooling excessively, foaming at the mouth
  • Displaying blue or gray gums
  • Coughing up blood or having seizure-like episodes

Contact Sonoran Sky Pet Hospital immediately or go to the nearest ER if your pet shows any of these signs.

Preventing Respiratory Illness in Pets

Routine Veterinary Care

  • Annual wellness exams help catch early signs of chronic respiratory issues
  • Vaccinations protect against respiratory diseases like kennel cough and feline herpesvirus
  • Heartworm prevention is essential in mosquito-prone areas

Learn more about Canine preventive care – AVMA & AAHA

A veterinarian in blue scrubs gently examines a happy, alert corgi dog on an exam table in a bright veterinary clinic.

Environmental Management

  • Use air purifiers to reduce allergens
  • Avoid smoking indoors or using strong perfumes and sprays
  • Keep your home clean and well-ventilated

More: Pet allergy tips – Purdue Vet

Trust Your Instincts—and Your Vet

Some respiratory noises are nothing to worry about—but others aren’t. When in doubt, it’s always best to schedule an exam. Early diagnosis and treatment can mean the difference between a minor irritation and a major health concern.

At Sonoran Sky Pet Hospital, we’re here to help your pet breathe easier and live better—no matter what’s causing the noise.

Schedule a check-up today