Chronic Bronchitis (Aka. “Allergic Canine Bronchitis”)
Chronic bronchitis can make breathing increasingly difficult for your pet, and it can become deeply distressing for owners to watch. The potential for respiratory emergencies, and the fact that slow deterioration cannot always be avoided makes this condition incredibly stressful to manage.
At Holistic Vet Care, our fully qualified vets are here to support both you and your pet every step of the way. Our aim is to support your pet’s whole body and to help you feel informed, supported, and confident in their care.
Please don’t hesitate to get in touch to discuss whether holistic support may be appropriate for your pet.
Book your free introductory consult
Not sure if we can help? Book a free 15min introductory consult with one of our holistic vets!
It’s a chance to get to know us, ask questions, and decide if you want to use our services with zero obligation.
Introductory consults can be in person or via Teams. Terms and Conditions apply.
What is chronic bronchitis?
Chronic bronchitis is a long-term (>2 months) condition where the lower airways in the lung (“bronchi”) become inflamed, swollen, and full of mucus. This condition is considered irreversible as the damage done to the airways is permanent.
The bronchi are airways within the lungs that carry inhaled air to the alveoli (where gas-exchange occurs). Bronchitis is inflammation of these airways; the bronchial walls become swollen and release mucus – which leads to narrowing and congestion of these airways. As a result, less inhaled air reaches the alveoli, meaning less oxygen enters the bloodstream.
The mucus collecting in the bronchi also triggers coughing to clear the airways. However, coughing worsens bronchial inflammation – a vicious cycle inherent to the progression of chronic bronchitis. Bronchitis is considered “chronic” if signs persist for at least 2 months.
Holistic treatment
Please be advised that conventional treatment is provided by your regular veterinarian, as we do not offer surgical or conventional medical interventions at Holistic Vet Care.
Traditional Chinese Medicine
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) can be a valuable part of supporting the health and ongoing wellbeing of pets with chronic bronchitis, alongside their conventional treatment plans.
With acupuncture and carefully selected Chinese herbal medicine, we aim to support pets with chronic bronchitis in the following ways:
- Reduce inflammation and oxidative stress
- Help alleviate coughing
- Help make the airways less sensitive
- Help support energy levels and vitality, which may improve exercise tolerance
- Help support balance of the autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary functions such as breathing and heart rate
- Help minimise side-effects from long-term medications (such as steroids)
- Help promote blood circulation to the affected area
Through these approaches, our qualified vets aim to support your pet throughout their treatment journey by easing clinical signs, supporting airway health, and potentially slowing disease progression, to help improve their quality of life.
Food therapy
Let food be thy medicine, and medicine be thy food.
From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective, food therapy is foundational in addressing underlying “patterns of disharmony” (the way disease presents within the individual). We aim to support the body’s natural balance with tailored whole-food diets, rather than heavily processed pet foods which can contribute to inflammation.
Every pet is unique and more specific dietary recommendations are tailored to your pet’s individual TCM diagnosis. Specific guidance can be discussed with one of our qualified vets during your consultation.
Claiming insurance
Many pet insurance providers now offer cover for complementary and holistic therapies, including herbal medicine, acupuncture, and laser therapy. However, we recommend checking what is included in your plan as cover varies between policies. Please bear in mind that all consultations, treatments, and herbal prescriptions must be paid for at the time. We will then help you claim back from your insurer.
Frequently asked questions
What are common clinical signs of chronic bronchitis?
- “Goose-honk” cough, which is often persistent, harsh, and dry
- Coughing can frequently trigger retching, gagging, or vomiting
- Frequent throat clearing or night-time coughing
- Loud breathing or wheezing
- Fast, shallow breathing when resting
- Increased breathing effort
- Exercise intolerance and lethargy
Please note, the following signs are indicative of severe respiratory distress (which is an emergency):
- Blue gums or tongue
- Collapse
- Struggling to catch their breath, or gasping for air
If your pet shows these signs, they must be taken to an emergency vet immediately.
How is chronic bronchitis typically treated by conventional vets?
Please be advised that conventional treatment is provided by your regular vet, as we do not offer surgical or medical interventions at Holistic Vet Care.
Conventional treatment for chronic bronchitis focuses on reducing inflammation and managing clinical signs. Treatment plans often rely on medical management, and lifestyle changes. Strategies may include:
- Medications such as steroids, bronchodilators, cough-suppressants, and mucolytics. These may be administered orally, or nebulised.
- Controlled weight loss to reduce breathing effort
- Using harnesses instead of collars to take pressure off the trachea
Must I leave my current vets to seek treatment at Holistic Vet Care?
No – we work alongside your conventional vet. We don’t replace conventional or emergency treatment. Our aim is to support your pet’s whole body and to help you feel informed, supported, and confident in their care.
Many complementary therapies are used alongside conventional treatments to improve patient welfare and can help improve prognosis. While adverse herbal-drug interactions (HDIs) can occur, they are uncommon when therapies are prescribed appropriately and monitored carefully.
When interactions do occur, the most common scenario is the herb enhancing the effect of the drug – which may allow conventional treatment plans to be adjusted by the prescribing vet.
We always encourage open communication between you, your primary vet, and our team to ensure your pet receives safe, balanced, and well-coordinated care.
Please don’t hesitate to get in touch to discuss whether holistic support may be appropriate for your pet.
Can I fully replace conventional treatment with holistic treatment?
No, holistic treatment should not replace conventional diagnosis or medical care.
At Holistic Vet Care, we work alongside your regular veterinarian. Conventional treatment is essential for diagnosing the condition, assessing severity, and managing emergencies or complications. Our role is to support your pet’s comfort, overall health, resilience, healing, and long-term wellbeing.
We always encourage open communication between you, your primary vet, and our team to ensure your pet receives safe, balanced, and well-coordinated care.
Do I need a referral from my vets?
Yes – your primary vet signs the “Vet Care Agreement” and sends your pet’s history to us. This ensures your pet receives safe, coordinated care before your first appointment.
How Long Does Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Take to Show Results?
The rate and degree of improvement depend on your pet and the severity of disease. Some animals show marked improvement in a matter of weeks, whilst others may need months. With TCM, improvement is steady and sustained, so patience is required.
Are There Any Risks with Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)?
TCM is generally safe when prescribed by a qualified person. Certain herbs may have side-effects and may have the ability to interact with conventional medications. Therefore, it is imperative that TCM is only used under professional guidance.
Will acupuncture hurt my pet?
It is unlikely. We find that most patients tolerate acupuncture very well, many end up falling asleep! Some points can be painful on some patients, but we take steps to minimise discomfort in these cases.
Can holistic treatments help older pets?
Absolutely! We see many geriatric patients, and they often demonstrate notable improvements (it may require several treatments before the benefits can be obviously appreciated). Some clients report that their older animals appear brighter, more comfortable, or more engaged again.
How do I know which holistic treatments are suitable for my pet?
Talk to your vet before trialling any new treatments.
Once registered with us, you can also ask our holistic vet.
Can I claim through my insurance?
Most insurance companies will cover/contribute towards our services. However, we always advise checking with your insurance company regarding your individual policy.
Get in touch
Where are we located?
Suite A, Blisworth Marina, Blisworth, Northampton, NN7 3FG.
We are located just outside of Blisworth, between Northampton and Towcester. Our clinic is at the Blisworth Marina, providing a peaceful, relaxing setting, with ample parking.
