Having your dog’s teeth cleaned is a must, and this is not something that should be “optional” for a fur parent.
However, there may be times when you notice that your dog starts coughing uncontrollably after they just had their teeth cleaned or after oral surgery (e.g., tooth extraction) has been done.
Is this normal?
Several reasons may cause your dog to cough or gag after teeth cleaning. Some of them may include something being stuck in their throat, irritation from the tubing, and anesthesia.
In today’s article, we will be exploring why your dog coughs after having their teeth cleaned and what steps you can take to help them get better.
Some Reasons Why Your Dog Is Coughing
1. Effect of Anesthesia
One of the reasons your dog might be coughing or gagging uncontrollably after teeth cleaning session or oral surgery is the type of anesthesia used.
Dogs may react differently depending on the type of medications administered to them or anesthesia that has been used during the procedure.
2. Irritation from the tubing
There may be times when an endotracheal tube will be used during oral or dental procedures to help your dog breathe properly.
However, when your dog might develop an irritation, there may be instances because the tubes stuck down their throats during the session.
The coughing would probably go away after a few days.
But as a precaution, make sure to observe your dog and look out for some tell-tale signs of possible hidden infections.
Which may manifest through loss of appetite or change in its energy levels.
If none of these things are happening to your dog, he should be fine in a couple of days.
3. Something might be stuck in his throat
Since your dog’s mouth will be kept open for the whole duration of the teeth cleaning or the oral procedure, chances are, something got stuck in your dog’s throat, and it is having a difficult time coughing it out.
If the cough lasts longer than a day, it would be best to consult a veterinarian and have your dog checked for signs of blockage or any irritation in his throat.
Just like humans, dogs also need assistance and care after undergoing dental operations or surgery.
Here are some of the aftercare procedures you can take to ensure that your dog will be back to its optimum state in no time:
Help them achieve adequate rest
Prepare a warm, quiet, and comfortable area for your dog to stay in after undergoing a medical procedure or surgery.
The anesthesia administered to your pet may wear off after a few hours, but there are cases when this lasts for 24 and even up to 48 hours.
Ensure that your pet can get sufficient rest during this time to help their bodies recuperate fast.
If your pet remains disoriented or exhausted after 48 hours had passed, make sure to immediately bring them to the Vet.
Medications
Just like humans, pets may need some medications, too, to help alleviate the pain or discomfort they are feeling after a dental procedure or surgery.
However, you cannot just give any medication to your dogs because this may do them more harm than good.
Ensure that you will only be giving your dog some meds upon the instruction and prescription of a licensed Veterinarian.
Feeding your dog after a dental procedure
Your dog’s teeth may still hurt even a few hours after the dental procedure is done.
Ensure that you will only be feeding your soft dog food.
If your dog eats pellets or hard dog foods, it would be best to soften these with water.
So that it will not have a hard time trying to break it down with its teeth.
Also, never forget to give your dog some water to avoid the risk of dehydration.
If your dog still refuses to eat 24 hours after the dental procedure, take it to the Vet immediately.
Check for Signs of Complications
If your dog is energetic and, on his toes, once again, you still need to keep a close eye on him.
Most dogs act like they are fine even though something is bothering them.
Some of the signs you should watch out for are:
- Your dog can eat hard food again but does not want to
- Your dog is suddenly disinterested in his favorite chew toys.
- Constantly dropping food while trying to eat.
- Your dog suddenly displays aggressive or painful behaviors when you touch his face.
- Halitosis
- Your dog is rubbing or pawing its face against objects or the floor.
- Your dog is drooling excessively.
- There is evident swelling or bleeding around the mouth or in the gums.
If you see your dog exhibit these signs, bring them to the Vet immediately.
Key Takeaway
Many reasons exist why your dog may be coughing and gagging uncontrollably after a dental procedure, like teeth cleaning or tooth extraction.
Some signs may be expected after such procedures, while others may appear or be evident only because there is a hidden infection due to the said procedure.
You must be a responsible pet owner and keep an open eye out for these signs.
Once you see something out of the ordinary, do not hesitate to consult a Vet immediately.
Your dog’s safety and welfare depend on you, and they have no one else to go to who would look and care for them but you.
If you treat them like family, you will do anything to ensure their health and safety and keep their lives out of jeopardy.
