Thursday, February 3, 2011

Sinus Problems




When it comes to using their noses, dogs and cats are the champs. They use them to greet friends, explore new territory and sniff every thing that doesn’t run away. In their enthusiasm, they sometimes snort up something they shouldn’t which leads to an infection known as sinusitis. Full blown sinusitis requires a veterinarian’s care, but these tips can make your pet more comfortable.

-Serve it hot: If you give your pet a hot, steaming meal it may help unclog blocked sinuses, making him breath better. Just add warm water to his kibble or pop his usual food in the microwave for a few moments -- just don’t let it get hot enough to burn his mouth.

-Upgrade the menu: While a pet with sinusitis may not feel like eating, it is important that he receives good nutrition to keep his immune system strong. Tempt him with some of his favorite foods.

-Keep his nose clean: Sinusitis may cause mucus to accumulate around the nostrils, which makes your pet uncomfortable and may interfere with breathing. Sponge his face with a warm, damp cloth to remove secretions.

-Rub his face gently: If the nose is already very irritated or sore, you’ve got to be gentle. Wipe your pet’s nose with baby wipes that contain soothing ingredients like aloe vera.

-Turn up the steam: Putting moisture in the air is an easy way to soothe irritated mucous membranes and unblock sinuses.

-Plug in the vaporizer: Another way to put moisture into the air is with a hot water vaporizer. Adding a little menthol ointment or liquid to the mix can be helpful. The menthol has a soothing action on delicate tissues and helps open the sinuses.

-Drop in relief: Putting several drops of sterile saline nose drops into your pet’s nostrils will help relieve irritation and temporarily thin secretions. Tip your pet’s head back and put one or two drops into each nostril.

*These tips are home remedies only and should not ever be used as a substitute for any treatment that may have been prescribed by your veterinarian. If your pet has a medical problem, we urge you to seek competent medical care
.
Alice England
Makingstuffwithlove.etsy.com

5 comments:

Giupetto and Gianna Tails said...

This was a wonderful post. Very valuable information, that I will probably refer back to at some time.
Thank you Alice.

Art and Sew Forth said...

Sounds like very human-like treatments! I would love to see you put nose drops in their little snouts!

AngelPups said...

Excellent info as always and perfect for this time of year!

A Cup of Sparkle said...

Thanks for sharing all those tips. I feel lucky that my puppy doesn't have allergies. Otherwise, it sounds like lots of work :)
my blog: http://acupofsparkle.blogspot.com/

Pup Fan said...

Thank you for the handy tips!