Tracheal collapse is a condition in which the windpipe is weakened and this causes breathing problems. It is most often seen in small breed dogs and it is associated with a characteristic 'honking' cough. The condition can be managed in a variety of ways, and the prognosis for each dog depends on how severe their signs are.
What is the trachea and how can it collapse?
The trachea is another name for the windpipe that leads to the lungs. It runs from the larynx all the way down to the chest, where it branches to lead into each lung. The trachea is reinforced by rings of cartilage that keep it open.
Animation on the normal anatomy of the trachea:
The rings of cartilage in the trachea are C-shaped, which means that they do not go all the way around the tube. At the top of the trachea, there is a membrane that completes the 'C' into an 'O'. However, if the rings of cartilage weaken, the membrane can collapse into the trachea when the dog breathes. This restricts airflow.
Animation on collapsing trachea:
Which dogs tend to be affected by tracheal collapse?
Tracheal collapse usually affects small breed dogs. Breeds most commonly affected include Pomeranians, Chihuahuas, Yorkshire Terriers, Toy Poodles, Shih Tzus and Lhasa Apsos. However, it is also possible for larger breed dogs to be affected.
The condition usually develops in middle aged to older dogs, though younger dogs are occasionally affected too. Obese dogs are more at risk of developing signs, and weight loss can help control symptoms in these animals.
What are the signs of tracheal collapse?
The most notable symptom of tracheal collapse is a dry and harsh cough which is more pronounced on excitement or when there is pressure on the trachea (e.g. from a collar). The cough sounds a little bit like the 'honk' noise that geese make.
Dogs with tracheal collapse may be less able to cope with exercise and may have difficulty breathing in some situations. If the coughing episodes are severe, some dogs may faint with the condition. Sometimes, dogs will have other lung or heart disease alongside tracheal collapse.
Your vet can get a good idea of whether your dog has tracheal collapse by examining them and talking through their symptoms with you. There are other conditions that may cause similar signs though, so your vet will probably advise further tests to establish a diagnosis. These may include x-rays and potentially endoscopy, when a little camera can be passed into the trachea to observe the movements when your dog breathes.
Fibroscopy of a dog with collapsing trachea:
How is tracheal collapse treated?
The most appropriate treatment for your dog will depend on how severe their symptoms are and whether they have any other heart or lung conditions at the same time. Your vet will help you come up with a treatment plan to suit your dog.
Firstly, there are some management changes that you can make to support your pet. Using a harness instead of a collar helps avoid triggering coughing, and weight loss will help reduce symptoms for overweight dogs. Avoiding over-excitement and cigarette smoke if possible is also often advised.
Many dogs require medical treatment for tracheal collapse alongside these changes. Medications that reduce inflammation in the airways can help, as can cough suppressants and drugs to dilate the airways. If infection is present, antibiotics may also be used, and medications to reduce anxiety can be helpful in dogs with a more nervous temperament. Your vet will be able to advise on what, if any, medications may help your pet.
Sometimes, medical management is not enough, and in this case your vet may advise surgery. There are various specialist techniques used and your vet will be able to decide which is most appropriate for your pet. One technique is to place plastic rings around the outside of the trachea to strengthen it, and another is to place a device called a 'stent' inside the trachea to hold it open. A stent is shown here:
Illustration of a stent to correct collapsing trachea:
While surgery may significantly improve the situation for your dog, it is likely that they will still need ongoing medication to control their symptoms.
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