Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My dog is lethargic, hunched, coughing, vomiting white foam. What now?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 40 lbs

My dog is very lethargic, walks somewhat hunched over as though she is in great discomfort, and acts unusually apprenhensive around me. Her appetite has diminished and she has been coughing and vomiting a frothy, foamy white substance? What should I do?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Jeffrey Milner

Veterinarian

Published on November 5th, 2017

Sounds like Mama is definitely in a pretty significant amount of pain, and probably experiencing some nausea as well. In order to determine the cause, a physical exam should be performed by a veterinarian. They will be able to tell you if further diagnostics are required to come up with a reason for Mama's current state. In the meantime just so you can be sure immediate attention isn't required, consider obtaining a temperature (normal is 99 - 102.5), checking the gums for pinkness / moisture, and checking the skin for normal elasticity. If Mama appears stables in these regards, there is no reason to think she needs to be rushed out tonight.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Anna M., DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 4th, 2020

    Hello, and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Bruno really needs to be seen by a vet to determine what's wrong. Decreased energy, exercise intolerance, decreased appetite/thirst, vomiting, and coughing could indicate heart disease, kennel cough, pneumonia, cancer, etc.... a thorough exam and potentially chest x-rays and bloodwork would be needed to determine what's wrong and get Bruno on the right medication. Hope this helps!

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

    Veterinarian

    Published on June 26th, 2018

    I hate to hear that Jasmine is so sick. She sounds like she is pretty uncomfortable. These can be signs of many things including some serious conditions such as an intestinal blockage, stomach torsion or pancreatitis. I would recommend to have her seen today. The rapid breathing is likely an indication of discomfort which is the most concerning. I hope she starts feeling better quickly!

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?
Is your mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and pussy? Dr. Melanie, a certified vet, discusses severe eye issues like infection or abscess, urging an immediate visit.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has red spots all over. What's causing them and what to do?
See red spots on your pet? A certified Petco vet discusses common causes like allergies, infections, or mites, guiding you on diagnosis and treatment options.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My small pet is limping and can't bear weight. Should I see a vet?
Is your pet limping and can't bear weight? A certified vet explains why a suspected fracture needs immediate diagnosis and safe pain relief. Get expert guidance.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My dwarf hamster has a shut eye and is limping. What should I do?
Is your dwarf hamster struggling with eye issues or limping? A trusted vet offers expert guidance on symptoms and crucial next steps for comfort and care.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored