Dental cleaning is an important part of your dog’s overall health, but it can also lead to some side effects, such as coughing or gagging. While it’s not uncommon for dogs to cough or gag after a dental cleaning, it’s important to understand what causes these symptoms and how to manage them.

Causes of Coughing and Gagging After Dental Cleaning

There are a few reasons why your dog may be coughing or gagging after a dental cleaning:

1. Irritation: During the dental cleaning process, your dog’s mouth and throat may become irritated from the tools used to clean their teeth.
2. Intubation: In some cases, your dog may need to be intubated during the dental cleaning process. The tube that’s inserted into their throat can cause irritation, leading to coughing or gagging.
3. Infection: In rare cases, coughing or gagging after dental cleaning can be a sign of infection. If your dog has a fever, isn’t eating, or is lethargic, contact your vet immediately.

How to Manage Coughing and Gagging After Dental Cleaning

If your dog is coughing or gagging after a dental cleaning, there are a few things you can do to help manage their symptoms:

1. Offer Water: Encourage your dog to drink water to help soothe their throat.
2. Soft Food: Offer soft food for a few days to prevent further irritation to their throat.
3. Monitor Cough: If the coughing persists or becomes more severe, contact your vet.
4. Follow-up Appointment: If your dog is experiencing persistent coughing or gagging after dental cleaning, schedule a follow-up appointment with your vet to rule out any infections.

Preventing Coughing and Gagging After Dental Cleaning

While coughing and gagging after dental cleaning can happen, there are some steps you can take to help prevent these symptoms:

1. Regular Brushing: Brush your dog’s teeth regularly to prevent the buildup of tartar and plaque.
2. Pre-Dental Exam: Before scheduling a dental cleaning, have your vet examine your dog to make sure they’re healthy enough for the procedure.
3. Inquire about intubation: If intubation is necessary, ask your vet about the size of the tube and how long it will be inserted.
4. Post-Cleaning Care: Follow your vet’s post-cleaning care instructions to help prevent coughing and gagging.

In conclusion, coughing or gagging after dental cleaning is a common side effect that can be managed with proper care and attention. If your dog is experiencing persistent coughing or gagging, it’s important to contact your vet to rule out any infections or underlying health issues.