Got a question about a cold weather cough in Mr Blue

[Mary Plummer]

Hello everyone,

It has been really bitterly cold here the last couple of days; I think we've been lucky to hit 10 degrees, and there's been a wind chill. Needless to say, we're both keeping our walks to a block or under! I've noticed that Mr. Blue coughs a bit when we first start our walk, and then maybe once more before we get in. He's not coughing at all when we're inside. It's a dry-sounding cough, not like he's trying to cough something up. I was wondering if really cold dry air could bring that on. I'm going to call our vets tomorrow morning to ask if I should bring him in, but I know they wouldn't get to hear his cough inside, because he doesn't have it in where it's warm. I know it kind of takes my breath away, so I'm hoping that's all it is. What do you think about this; is he just saying let's get in quick to me, or should I be worried about this?

[Traci]

I agree with you...it is probably a slight insult to his lungs and bronchia when first introduced to the cold temps outside. Won't hurt to double-check with your vet though, let us know what he says.

[Mary Plummer]

Thanks Traci! I did call, and she said that it was nothing to worry about as long as he's not coughing inside where it's warm. We also joked a bit about what a big scarf it would take to cover up his nose on our walks I feel better hearing that this is probably what's happening!