Cyanosis is a condition that can turn your dog's tongue, gums and skin purple or blue. What causes cyanosis in dogs? Is it dangerous? What are the treatment options? Find out in today's blog post.
Why is my dog's tongue blue?
Cyanosis is a very serious condition that occurs when the tissues of the body aren't receiving an appropriate amount of oxygen. While there can be many possible causes of cyanosis, they are all related to the blood vessels that lie near the surface of the skin.
If your dog is a Chow Chow or Shar-Pei, a blue tongue can be natural and no cause for concern. In these breeds, the blue/purple tint results from extra pigmentation in the cells of the tongue. Nonetheless, these Chows and Shar-Peis can also suffer from cyanosis. So, if your dog's pigmentation seems unusual contact your vet right away!
Signs & Symptoms of Cyanosis in Dogs
While the main symptom of cyanosis is blue or purple gums, tongue, and skin, other indicators include:
- Respiratory distress, such as panting
- Coughing or wheezing.
- Extreme tiredness
- Confusion or disorientation
- Collapsing
Cyanosis in dogs is considered a sign of a medical emergency. Seek emergency veterinary care right away. Cyanosis can be caused by heart or lung problems, so veterinary intervention is crucial.
Causes of Canine Cyanosis
The conditions causing cyanosis in dogs are typically connected to the respiratory system in some way. These conditions include:
- Asthma
- Pneumonia
- Smoke inhalation
- Choking
- Anemia
- Heart problem
- Heartworm disease
- Paralysis of the larynx
Other Major Causes of Cyanosis in Dogs
Trauma or damage that affects the muscles of the diaphragm or chest wall can result in difficulty breathing which is another possible cause of cyanosis.
Conditions affecting the nervous system like brain tumors, strokes, paralysis, or poisoning can cause the inability to breathe properly. The resulting lack of oxygen can cause the appearance of blue skin on dogs.
Diagnosing Cyanosis
Your vet will likely start by performing a physical exam. This may include measuring your dog's oxygen levels by placing a small device called a pulse oximeter on an area of your dog, such as the tongue or tip of the ear.
If cyanosis can't be determined with an examination alone, your vet may consider pursuing further diagnostic tests such as blood work, chest X-rays, and a heart function assessment.
Treating Cyanosis in Dogs
If cyanosis becomes apparent, the first step will be to determine the cause. Once the cause is determined and treatment begins, the cyanosis should be resolved. Unfortunately, depending on the severity of the condition and the length of time that the affected tissues were without oxygen, there may be some long-term or even life-long damage.
Cyanosis is typically treated by administering oxygen immediately. Your vet may take out excess fluid to ease lung pressure and help the lungs expand. In more severe cases, it may be necessary to make a small hole in the windpipe to make breathing easier.
Your dog may also need special medication to help with breathing. The exact medication will depend on the cause of your dog's cyanosis. Changes to your dog's daily routine or a special diet may be prescribed to address the underlying cause issue.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.