The Approach to Chronic Cough in Dogs and Cats.

This article outlines a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and managing chronic cough in dogs and cats. It emphasizes the importance of thorough history and physical examination, alongside consideration of signalment, to enable prioritization of differential diagnoses. Diagnostic tools including radiography, computed tomography, fluoroscopy, bronchoscopy, and airway sampling are commonly integrated for definitive diagnosis. Treatment can proceed absent a definitive diagnosis; commonly used drug classes in the treatment of chronic cough in dogs and cats include antimicrobials, anti-inflammatories, bronchodilators, and anti-tussives. Nonpharmacologic strategies are also vital. Treatment can effectively control signs and improve quality of life, even where complete resolution is not achievable.