My senior Chihuahua with heart murmur coughs at night, can't sleep.

Question

My 10 year old Chihuahua was diagnosed with a heart murmur 2 years ago. He has had no symptoms until recently when he started coughing, more often at night with restless sleep. The veterinarian he saw 2 weeks ago did not think medication was necessary at this time but now the cough is more persistent and he used to sleep through the night. Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua (Smooth Coat) | Male | neutered | 10 years and 10 months old | 8 lbs

Sara Farmer, DVM · Accepted Answer

It sounds like Ace might need medication at this point, but it can be really difficult sometimes to determine whether a cough is related to heart disease or respiratory problems like collapsing trachea or chronic bronchitis which can also be very common in senior small dogs. I would contact your vet and let them know that Ace is now coughing so much that he can't rest. They might recommend an echocardiogram to completely rule out heart disease and heart failure as a cause, or they might recommend trying some other medications for cough. If Ace has not had chest x-rays recently they would probably recommend x-rays as well.

My senior Chihuahua with heart murmur coughs at night, can't sleep.

Most Helpful Answer

Related Questions

Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?

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

My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?

My pet has red spots all over. What's causing them and what to do?

My small pet is limping and can't bear weight. Should I see a vet?

My dwarf hamster has a shut eye and is limping. What should I do?

Share