CHOKING

What Happens?

• Choking is when something is blocking the ability to breathe. 
• It can be caused by a foreign body (ie food or piece of toy) or compression like swelling induced by trauma.

What Does It Look Like?

• Pets that are choking can either be conscious or unconscious.  
• Usually with choking, it is difficult for the pet to inhale (breath in)
• Pet may make a gagging sound

What Do You Do?

• If conscious, calm pet down and transport to a veterinarian ASAP
• If the pet is unconscious, carefully use your finger to sweep the back of the throat and remove any possible foreign body
• If the pet is not breathing, begin rescue breathing (see CPR section)