What can I give my dog for respiratory problems?

When a dog has respiratory problems, it will become listless and have difficulty breathing. Seeing their beloved pet in discomfort, owners are often extremely anxious. Diet, as an important part of adjuvant treatment, is of great significance for the dog's recovery to health. Below, we will tell you what you can feed your dog to help relieve its discomfort when it has respiratory problems.

A dog's respiratory tract is like a sophisticated passage. Any problem in parts from the nasal cavity, throat to the trachea and bronchi may cause symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, and rapid breathing. Viral infections like colds, influenza, and canine distemper, the invasion of bacteria such as pneumococcus and staphylococcus, or the stimulation of allergies and environmental factors can all put the dog's respiratory tract in "crisis". When a dog is sick, not only does its body endure the pain of the illness, but it also feels uneasy and vulnerable psychologically. The food carefully prepared by the owner is like a warm bridge conveying care, which can give it the power to heal.

Water is a crucial "source of life" for dogs with respiratory problems. When sick, dogs are likely to lose a large amount of water due to reasons such as accelerated breathing and increased body temperature. Adequate water intake can thin the phlegm, making it easier to cough up and reducing the sense of blockage in the respiratory tract. The owner can place clean drinking water in a place where the dog can easily reach it and change the water frequently to keep it fresh. If the dog doesn't like to drink water on its own initiative, you might as well try to feed water slowly with a syringe or prepare some light broth or diluted fruit and vegetable juice. The broth can be made from chicken, beef, etc. It is not only rich in water but also can supplement certain nutrients for the dog. Diluted apple juice, pear juice, etc., with their sweet taste, may arouse the dog's appetite. At the same time, pears have the effect of moistening the lungs and relieving coughs, which is helpful for relieving respiratory symptoms to a certain extent.

When choosing the staple food, easily digestible food is the best choice. At this time, the dog's gastrointestinal function may also be affected, and overly hard or greasy food will increase the burden on the stomach and intestines. Soft and glutinous millet porridge and pumpkin porridge are good choices. Millet is rich in B vitamins, which can nourish the stomach and intestines; pumpkin is rich in dietary fiber and vitamins, easy to digest and absorb, and also has a certain anti-inflammatory effect. Boiling millet or pumpkin into porridge, which is warm and palatable, can provide energy for the dog without putting too much pressure on the stomach and intestines. You can also choose high-quality pet cans. Compared with dry food, the texture of the cans is softer and more moist, rich in water and protein, which can meet the nutritional needs of the dog during the illness. However, when choosing cans, pay attention to checking the ingredient list to avoid products with too many additives and preservatives.

Protein is an important nutrient that maintains the normal operation of a dog's body and enhances its resistance. When a dog has respiratory problems, supplementing high-quality protein is helpful for the body's recovery. You can choose steamed or boiled chicken breast and fish. These meats are rich in protein and low in fat, and are easily digested and absorbed by the dog. Tear the chicken breast or fish into small pieces, or use a food processor to make them into a meat puree, which will make it more convenient for the dog to eat. Eggs are also a good source of protein, but pay attention to feeding them in moderation, and they must be cooked to avoid the threat to the dog's health from the possible bacteria and parasites in raw eggs.

In addition to the above foods, some ingredients with special effects can also play a positive role in the recovery of a dog's respiratory tract. For example, honey has the functions of moistening the lungs and relieving coughs, and antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. Adding a small amount of honey to the dog's drinking water (note that puppies should not be fed honey) can not only improve the taste of the water but also relieve respiratory discomfort. In addition, vegetables such as broccoli and carrots are rich in vitamins and minerals. Steaming them, chopping them up, and mixing them into the food can supplement comprehensive nutrients for the dog, enhance its immunity, and help the body recover.

When feeding a dog with respiratory problems, it is also necessary to pay attention to following the principle of feeding small meals frequently. During the illness, the dog's appetite may not be good, and feeding too much at one time may cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other situations. Divide the food for a day into 3 to 4 feedings, which can not only ensure that the dog intakes enough nutrients but also will not make the stomach and intestines feel overburdened. At the same time, the feeding environment is also very important. Keep it quiet, warm, and comfortable, allowing the dog to eat in a relaxed state.

Every feeding is the transmission of the owner's deep concern and love for the dog. When the dog rubs its wet nose against your hand and tries hard to eat the food you prepared, that is the warmest response it gives you. Through scientific and reasonable dietary arrangements, combined with the professional treatment of veterinarians, we will definitely be able to help the dog overcome respiratory diseases, let them regain their vitality, and run happily in the sun again.