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Parent429827
Fri, Apr 19, 2024
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Lethargy
Loss of appetite
Coughing
Difficulty in breathing

Just two days ago she started coughing, no energy not eating no appetite. The last time she tried to eat is when she vomited she feels a little feverish. The coughing is also a wheezing breathing type cough dry.


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Dr. Sena
Dr.Tail Vet

The symptoms you've described in your 14-year-old dachshund, including coughing, lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, and feverish feeling, could be indicative of several underlying health issues. Given her age, we need to consider that older dogs are more susceptible to various conditions, such as respiratory infections, heart disease, or even metabolic disorders like kidney or liver disease.

The coughing and wheezing you've mentioned, especially if it's a dry type of cough, could suggest a respiratory issue. This could range from a simple kennel cough, which is a contagious respiratory infection, to something more serious like chronic bronchitis or even heart disease. The latter can lead to coughing due to fluid accumulation in or around the lungs.

Vomiting and diarrhea, combined with her lack of appetite, are concerning as they can quickly lead to dehydration, especially in an older dog. These symptoms can be caused by a variety of issues, including gastrointestinal infections, pancreatitis, or ingestion of something toxic or indigestible.

Given these symptoms, it's important to ensure she stays hydrated. Offer small amounts of water frequently, and you can also provide an electrolyte solution to help maintain her electrolyte balance. If she's not vomiting immediately after drinking, you can continue to offer small, frequent sips.

For her lack of appetite, try offering a bland diet such as boiled chicken and rice in small amounts. This can be easier on her stomach and more enticing than her regular food. However, if she continues to vomit or refuses to eat, this is a sign that she needs immediate medical attention.

Keep her in a comfortable, quiet space to rest, away from any stressors. Ensure she is warm, but not overheated, and monitor her breathing closely. If you notice any changes in her breathing pattern, such as increased effort, noise, or if she seems to be in distress, this is an emergency and she should be seen by a professional immediately.

Other signs that would warrant an urgent visit to a veterinary hospital include a significant increase in her lethargy, if she becomes unresponsive, if her gums turn pale or blue, or if she has a distended abdomen. These could be signs of a critical situation such as heart failure, severe anemia, or internal bleeding.

Remember, while these suggestions can help manage her symptoms, they are not a substitute for professional veterinary care. It's crucial to closely monitor her condition, and if there's no improvement or if she worsens, seek veterinary care as soon as possible.

If you have any additional questions, please don't hesitate to come back to us! Thank you.