Puppies, like humans, can get hiccups for a variety of reasons. Hiccups are involuntary contractions of the diaphragm, which is the muscle that separates the chest and abdominal cavities. These contractions can cause a sudden intake of air, resulting in the characteristic “hic” sound which we say is “hiccups”.
Hiccups in puppies are typically not a cause for concern and are not harmful. They can be caused by minor reasons. It happens when puppies eat or drink too quickly, overexcitement, stress, or temperature changes. In most cases, hiccups will resolve on their own and do not require treatment.
Why Do Puppies Get Hiccups?
Here are some possible causes of hiccups in puppies, as well as some tips on what to avoid and what to do:
Contractions of Diaphragm
Puppies may get hiccups if they swallow a lot of air while eating or drinking too quickly. To help prevent hiccups, try to slow down your puppy’s feeding and encourage them to chew their food thoroughly.
You should read our puppy feeding guide to learn proper feeding.
Excitement
Hiccups may also be caused by excitement, stress, or other emotional arousals. If your puppy is prone to hiccups when they get excited, try to calm them down and provide a quiet and relaxed environment.
Indigestion
Hiccups may also be a sign of indigestion or digestive issues in puppies. To help prevent hiccups due to indigestion, make sure your puppy is eating a well-balanced diet and avoid giving them any table scraps or unhealthy treats.
Health Issues
Hiccups can be associated with various health conditions such as pancreatitis, pregnancy, bladder irritation, pneumonia, stomach and bowel diseases, but these cases are rare. If hiccups persist, it may indicate an underlying health problem, such as an infection or respiratory issue. If your puppy’s hiccups persist or are accompanied by other symptoms, it is important to consult with a veterinarian.
What to Avoid When Puppies Get Hiccups?
- Avoid overfeeding your puppy or giving them too many treats, as this can lead to indigestion and hiccups.
- Avoid feeding your puppy too quickly, as this can cause them to swallow a lot of air and get hiccups.
What to Do When Puppies Get Hiccups a Lot?
- In usual cases, puppy’s hiccups are caused by excitement or stress, try to calm them down and provide a quiet and relaxed environment.
- If your puppy’s hiccups are due to indigestion, make sure they are eating a well-balanced diet and avoid giving them any unhealthy treats or table scraps.
- When your puppy’s hiccups persist or are accompanied by other symptoms, consult a veterinarian for further evaluation and treatment.
Do Hiccups Hurt Puppies and How to Get Rid of Them?
There is nothing to worry about; hiccups are a natural reflex that can occur in puppies, just as they can in humans. They are typically harmless and do not cause any pain or discomfort to puppies. So don’t be worried if your puppy has hiccups.
In general, hiccups in puppies are not a cause for concern and do not require treatment. By providing your puppy with a calm, stress-free environment and feeding them small, frequent meals, you can help to prevent hiccups and keep your puppy healthy and happy.
However, if a puppy has hiccups for an extended period, it may be a sign of a more serious underlying issue, such as an infection or digestive problem. In this case, it is best to consult a veterinarian for advice and treatment.
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