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)