My older dog chokes on food and coughs. When should I see a vet?

Question

My older dog tries to eat to fast and often gags on his food. Tonight the gagging became more like choking. He cleared it and resumed eating g but has now been coughing all night since and occasionally gagging and spitting up phlegm. He is breathing okay and energy level is normal. Do we ride it out? Anything we can do to help? Pet's info: Dog | Rottweiler | Male | unneutered | 7 years old | 150 lbs

Kevin Sanada, DVM · Accepted Answer

He likely aspirated some food. If it's just one day of hacking, then it's OK to wait and see if it clears in the next day or two. However, we always worry about aspiration pneumonia, which can be more serious. If the hacking persists for more than two days and is not getting better, then it's best to take him to the vet. If your dog has always done this, then I would not be too worried about a condition causing him to gag when eating. However, if this gagging is recent (within the last year), then I would get him checked-out by a vet. I'm particularly concerned about laryngeal paralysis, which can happen in older dogs and cause them to aspirate their food and water. I hope that helps and Anubis gets better soon.

My older dog chokes on food and coughs. When should I see a vet?

Most Helpful Answer

Related Questions

What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?

What's the best way to feed my hamster when I'm going on a trip?

Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?

Is Purina Layer Pellets good for chickens? What other feeds exist?

My newly adopted pet won't eat hay. What can I do to encourage it?

My mice eat all their food together from one bowl. Is this normal?

Share