How to Recognize and Treat Chylothorax in Dogs
Chylothorax causes a dog's lungs to work improperly, which creates difficulty in breathing. Certain breeds, including Afghan hounds, are at higher risk for chylothorax. This condition most commonly strikes middle-aged dogs; however, there have also been cases reported in younger animals. Here’s how to diagnose and deal with the condition.
Instructions
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Evaluate your dog for symptoms of chylothorax. Canines that experience this condition may exhibit coughing, difficulty breathing and loss of appetite and energy. Write down any symptoms your dog experiences to discuss them with the vet.
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Request testing for your canine. Ask your vet to perform an exam and take X-rays to determine if fluids are present in your dog's lungs. If your pet is diagnosed with chylothorax, immediate treatment will be needed.
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Design a treatment plan with your medical provider. Typically, the vet will need to drain fluids present in your dog’s lungs. If the fluid recurs, surgery may be needed to resolve the condition.
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Change your dog’s diet to prevent future health issues. Dogs that eat a lower-fat diet may have some protection against a recurrence of chylothorax. Change to a low-fat dog food and refrain from giving your canine table scraps. If you give your dog occasional treats, make sure they’re low-fat.
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Make sure your dog is protected from heartworm disease. Discuss this with the vet. Chylothorax can accompany heartworm disease in canines, so it’s important that yours have the necessary safeguards.
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Tips & Warnings
Consider home cooking for finicky eaters. Some dogs turn up their noses up at low-fat dog food. If you have this issue with your pet, look for a dog-food cookbook. These typically contain low-fat recipes that dogs sometimes think taste even better than the real thing.
Breathing difficulties warrant an emergency visit. Chylothorax is a serious condition that requires immediate care. If your dog is having any trouble breathing, take her to the animal hospital. Make sure to keep her calm, because excitement will only make her breathing issues worse.
