When assessing breathing in a dog or cat, what sign indicates potential respiratory distress?

• A. Normal breathing rate and effort.
• B. Sneezing only.
• C. Panting after exercise.
• D. Abnormal or laboured breathing, open-mouth breathing, or noise such as wheezing or panting at rest.

Answer: (D)

Breathing assessment hinges on recognizing when air movement is not normal. Normal breathing is steady and effortless, with no unusual sounds. Sneezing by itself is typically a simple reflex to an irritant and doesn’t indicate distress. Panting after exercise can be normal as the body cools and recovers from activity. However, signs of distress include abnormal or laboured breathing, open-mouth breathing (dogs often use this to ease breathing when it’s hard), and audible noises like wheezing or other sounds while the animal is at rest. These signs show the airways or lungs are struggling to move air, requiring prompt veterinary attention if observed when the animal is not active.