When your pet has an object stuck in its throat and isn't able to get rid of ot by coughing and retching, don't put your hand it its mouth and try to reach the object. The best solution is a modified Heimlich Maneuver (more on Heimlich Maneuver), the technique used on humans. Place your arms around the lower area of the chest and quickly squeeze upward against your chest. The object should pop out. The problem could be is that your pet may be panicky and hard to control. If your pet appears to be too agitated to allow you to do the Heimlich, you should take him/her to the vet before your pet starts having breathing problems.
It is important to be aware that there are many causes to consider when your pet is gagging, rethcing or caughing. These include kennel cough, heart or respiratory disease, attempted vomiting and in cats hairballs. |
