What are the symptoms of a golden retriever catching a cold?

When the lively and lovely golden retriever at home suddenly becomes listless, as pet owners, our inner worries instantly surge like a tide. Among the health problems of pets, colds are relatively common but cannot be ignored. Understanding the symptoms of golden retrievers catching a cold can help us detect them in time and give them proper care. ​

At first, the most obvious change in a golden retriever with a cold is its mental state. The little guy who usually wags his tail enthusiastically and runs to greet you with energy has now become lazy, always lying quietly in the corner, and has no interest in the toys and games he used to love. You call its name, it may just raise its head slightly, look at you with its eyes that have lost their former brilliance, and then slowly lie down again, with a sense of fatigue all over its body. This mental malaise is the golden retriever's body sending us a distress signal, telling us that it is suffering from discomfort. ​

Then, the change in body temperature cannot be ignored. Under normal circumstances, the body temperature of a golden retriever is between 38℃ and 39℃. When it catches a cold, its body temperature may rise. If you gently touch its ears and paw pads, it will feel hotter than usual. If you have a pet-specific thermometer at home, you will find that the body temperature exceeds the normal range after measurement. Don't underestimate this increase in body temperature. It means that the golden retriever's body is trying to fight against invading germs, and the immune system has turned on "combat mode". ​

In terms of breathing, the breathing of a golden retriever with a cold will become rapid and heavy. You can clearly hear the heavy sound of its breathing, sometimes even accompanied by a slight cough. The cough may not be frequent at first, but as the disease progresses, it may gradually worsen. Every cough is like a small hammer, hitting our hearts hard, making us feel distressed. Seeing its body tremble slightly because of coughing, we wish we could bear this pain for it. ​

The nose will also show a series of symptoms. The nose tip, which was originally moist and cool, may become dry and hot at this time. If you observe carefully, you can also find secretions in the nasal cavity. At first, it may be clear nasal mucus. As the disease progresses, the nasal mucus may become thicker and the color will change from transparent to white or even yellow. From time to time, the golden retriever scratches its nose with its paws to try to relieve the discomfort in the nasal cavity, but this small action makes us more worried. ​

The eyes will also be affected. There will be more secretions in the corners of the eyes, and the eye mucus will increase significantly than usual, and it may even cover the eyes, making the golden retriever's eyes look a little red and swollen. It may blink frequently to try to make its eyes more comfortable. The big eyes that were once bright and energetic are now shrouded in a layer of haze and have lost their former agility. ​

Appetite will also be greatly reduced. The golden retriever, who usually accepts all food, may turn a blind eye to the delicacies in the rice bowl when he catches a cold. Even if you specially prepare its favorite snacks, it will only barely smell them and then turn away. At this time, its body's energy consumption has increased because of resisting the cold, but it is unwilling to eat. How can this not make us extremely anxious? We tried every possible way to change the types of food and cooking methods, just hoping to arouse its appetite, let it eat more and replenish its physical strength. ​

In terms of behavior, a golden retriever with a cold may become more clingy. It will follow you closely and will not leave at all, as if it can get some comfort and strength as long as it is by your side. It will rest its head on your legs or get into your arms, seeking your warmth and touch. At this time, we must give it enough company and care, gently stroke its head and body, comfort it with gentle words, and let it feel our care and support. ​

When we find these symptoms in a golden retriever, we must take it to the veterinarian in time. The veterinarian will determine the cause and severity of the cold through professional examinations and give corresponding treatment plans. During the treatment, we must strictly follow the doctor's instructions to feed the golden retriever medicine, and at the same time, provide it with a warm, quiet and comfortable environment so that it can rest well. Prepare enough clean drinking water for it and encourage it to drink more water, which can help relieve throat discomfort, promote metabolism, and speed up the body's recovery. In terms of diet, choose nutritious and easily digestible food. If necessary, you can soften the food to make it easier for it to eat. ​

We must know that the golden retriever is an important member of our family. It brings us endless joy and companionship. When it is sick, we are its most solid support. Every symptom is telling us about its physical discomfort. We must observe carefully and take care of it with love. I hope that every cute golden retriever can grow up healthily and happily, away from the troubles of diseases.