nose health for dogs and cats

Our pets rely on their noses far more than we probably realise. For dogs and cats, their noses play a critical role in their daily lives by helping them to navigate, communicate and stay safe.

Maintaining the health of their nose is key to ensuring their well-being.

Why do cats and dogs need a healthy nose?

A dog’s nose is their superpower

Dogs have an extraordinary sense of smell, which is their primary tool for understanding the world around them. To put this into perspective, humans have around five million scent receptors whereas dogs can have up to 300 million. Their sense of smell helps them track scents over long distances, detect changes in the environment, and even sense emotional changes in humans. A healthy nose can help dogs to:

Navigate and explore their surroundings
Find food and water
Identify other animals or people
Detect danger or unfamiliar scents

A cat’s nose is precision at its finest

Although cats are not as reliant on their nose as dogs, they still possess a strong sense of smell that is crucial for survival and comfort. They use their noses to:

Detect pheromones for communication with other cats
Smell their food and find water
Mark and recognise their territory
Sense changes in their environment for safety

Both dogs and cats depend on their nose for more than just smelling. Healthy nasal passages are necessary for respiration, and any issues can affect their overall health and comfort.

Common nose problems in dogs and cats

Even though a healthy nose is essential for their well-being, dogs and cats can experience various nasal problems, including:

Dry or cracked noses: Common in both dogs and cats, especially in extreme weather conditions. A dry, cracked nose can be uncomfortable and may indicate dehydration or other health problems. You can apply a nose and paw balm to help maintain a healthy nose and help to prevent this.
Nasal discharge & infections: Clear discharge is normal, but thick, yellow, green, or bloody mucus could indicate infections, allergies, or foreign objects in the nose. If infections are left untreated, it could lead to infections and in worse cases cause difficulty in breathing.
Allergies: Environmental allergens, such as pollen, dust, or smoke, can irritate a pet’s nose, leading to sneezing, discharge, and itching.

If you are concerned about your pet’s nose health and you notice any sudden changes, it is always best to consult your vet who is best placed to offer advice and give your pet a check-up.

Tips for maintaining nose health in dogs and cats

To keep your pet’s nose healthy, it’s important to pay attention to any changes and take preventive steps.

Regular inspections– Check your pet’s nose regularly for any signs of dryness, cracking, discharge, or swelling. Look for unusual behaviour, like excessive pawing at the nose or frequent sneezing, which could indicate a problem.
Hydration – Ensure your pet always has access to clean and fresh water. Hydration helps keep the nose moist and healthy.
Protect against harsh weather – In cold or windy weather, your dog or cat’s nose may become dry or cracked. Applying a nose and paw balm can help keep their nose moisturised.

Your pet’s nose is an essential tool they use to explore and experience the world. Keeping them healthy ensures that they can continue to rely on this for daily activities, from finding food to detecting danger.

Regular check-ups, hydration, and protection from extreme weather can maintain their nose health and overall happiness.