Sometimes it happens that the puppy begins to hiccup. There are many reasons for this. Let's take a closer look at this topic. Why does the puppy hiccup?
Sometimes hiccups in dogs are usually harmless. This is the same phenomenon as in humans. Hiccups are a sharp reflex breath associated with a repeated contraction of the diaphragm. And because of what does it arise? Why does the puppy hiccup? I would like to note that hiccups can be both short-term and long-term. The causes of occurrence, of course, are different. Let's look at them.
Growing pains
Some experts believe that hiccups are normal for a puppy. They call this phenomenon a growth disease. Episodes (short-lived and infrequent) of hiccups during the period when a puppy goes through all stages of psychological and physical development are considered normal phenomena. The older the beast becomes, the less likely it is.
There is an opinion that hiccups are a kind of rudimentary reflex of puppies that remains with them from the time they were in the womb. In this way, they can strengthen the muscles of the esophagus and lungs, while allegedly being "under water". If hiccups last no more than an hour, then there is no particular reason for concern.
Food and games
Why does a puppy hiccup after eating? As a rule, this is due to the rapid filling of the stomach when the dog eats food very quickly and eagerly. Sometimes a similar hiccup can occur in a puppy who eats dry food, drinks little water. Then it is worth increasing the amount of fluid in the dog’s diet. Experts recommend that small puppies soak dry food in water.
Why does the puppy hiccup? For example, this can happen if the baby has just finished stormy games with other puppies, dogs. This happens because the dog dries up the nasopharynx. He just needs to drink some water.
You can also take the puppy by the front paws so that it stands a little on the hind legs. In time, such an exercise should take about three minutes.
Hypothermia
Sometimes a puppy starts hiccuping when it freezes. Especially in the winter season, this can often be observed. Also, hiccups from hypothermia can be in hairless and short-haired dogs. Therefore, these dogs need to be dressed in special clothes for animals, and even in the apartment. It is also desirable that such dogs and puppies are less likely to be in drafts.
Worms
Why does a puppy often hiccup or for long? Perhaps he has worms. Remember when you gave your puppy an anthelmintic drug. If this was a long time, then take the remedy again. Dosage depends on the age and weight of the dog. You can also consult a veterinarian in this matter.
Disease
There may be more serious causes of a long hiccup. For example, the entry of a foreign body. Reasons for prolonged hiccups:
- diseases of the gastrointestinal tract (e.g. gastritis, etc.);
- dirofilariasis.
It happens that a prolonged hiccup occurs as a result of damage to the central nervous system. For example, this may be a complication after the plague of the nervous type. Observe the dog, look for other related symptoms. Although it is better to show the animal to the veterinarian
Prolonged hiccups can occur in a puppy before a heart attack. Therefore, look at the behavior of the pet, perhaps it will need emergency care, but rather go to the clinic.
If hiccups occur periodically, it is best to consult a doctor. Usually, metoclopramide (Cerucal), a dopamine receptor blocker, is used to stop the attack. The drug will help soothe hiccups if it is associated with gastrointestinal problems. But use the medicine only as prescribed by the veterinarian.
Little conclusion
Now you know why the puppy hiccups. As you can see, there are many reasons. If the puppy begins to hiccup, watch him, show the veterinarian to be safe or not to start the disease.