Dog Reverse Sneezing and Vomiting: Causes and When to Worry
When a dog experiences both reverse sneezing and vomiting, the relationship between the two signs is not always straightforward, though several possible explanations exist.
Quick Answer
Reverse sneezing and vomiting can occur together when forceful throat spasms trigger the gag reflex, causing a dog to retch or bring up small amounts of fluid. However, the two signs may also be unrelated, with separate causes such as a respiratory infection, a nasal foreign body, or a gastrointestinal upset. A veterinary evaluation is recommended when both signs appear together.
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Are Reverse Sneezing and Vomiting Connected?
Reverse sneezing originates from the nasal passages and the back of the throat, while vomiting involves the stomach and gastrointestinal tract. In some cases, however, the two may be linked.
During an intense reverse sneezing episode, the rapid forceful inhalation and spasm of the throat muscles can stimulate the gag reflex. This may cause the dog to retch or produce a small amount of foam, saliva, or clear fluid. In these instances, what appears to be vomiting may actually be gagging triggered by the throat spasm.
True vomiting, where the dog brings up partially digested food or bile, is more likely to have a separate gastrointestinal cause.
Possible Causes
Several scenarios may explain the combination of reverse sneezing and vomiting.
Gagging Triggered by Reverse Sneezing
This is one of the more common explanations. When a reverse sneezing episode is particularly forceful or prolonged, the gag reflex is activated. The dog may retch and produce a small amount of white foam or saliva. This is not the same as vomiting stomach contents and is generally less concerning.
Signs that may suggest gagging rather than vomiting:
- The fluid produced is mostly clear or white foam
- It happens immediately during or after a reverse sneezing episode
- The dog otherwise seems comfortable and interested in food
Nasal or Throat Foreign Body
A foreign object lodged in the nasal passage or throat can cause both persistent reverse sneezing and retching. Grass awns, seeds, or small plant material may irritate the nasopharynx and also trigger the gag reflex when the dog swallows. If a foreign body is present, the reverse sneezing and gagging are likely to continue until the object is removed.
Respiratory Infection
An upper respiratory infection can cause inflammation in the nasal passages and throat, leading to reverse sneezing. Post-nasal drip associated with the infection may irritate the stomach lining, especially if the dog swallows a significant amount of mucus. This irritation can sometimes lead to vomiting, particularly in the morning or after eating.
Common signs of a respiratory infection include:
- Nasal discharge
- Forward sneezing
- Mild cough
- Reduced appetite
- Low energy
Gastrointestinal Upset
If the vomiting appears to be true vomiting involving stomach contents, the reverse sneezing may simply be coincidental. Gastrointestinal causes of vomiting include:
- Dietary indiscretion (eating something unusual)
- Sudden food changes
- Intestinal parasites
- Gastritis or enteritis
In these cases, the vomiting is likely the primary concern, and any concurrent reverse sneezing may be due to a separate and unrelated trigger.
Eating Too Quickly
Some dogs gulp their food or water rapidly, which can lead to both reverse sneezing and vomiting. Swallowing air or large pieces of food may irritate the oesophagus and trigger reverse sneezing. The rapid intake can also cause the dog to regurgitate or vomit shortly after eating.
What to Observe
Noting the details of each episode can help your veterinarian identify the underlying cause. Pay attention to:
- Whether the vomiting or retching happens at the same time as reverse sneezing
- The appearance of the vomited material (foam, bile, food, blood)
- How often each sign occurs
- Whether the dog has a normal appetite and energy level between episodes
- Any other signs such as nasal discharge, coughing, or diarrhoea
When to Contact a Veterinarian
Schedule a veterinary visit if you observe any of the following:
- Frequent vomiting, especially if the dog cannot keep water down
- Blood in the vomit or material that looks like coffee grounds
- Vomiting that persists for more than 12 to 24 hours
- Nasal discharge, especially if it contains blood
- Persistent reverse sneezing that does not resolve between episodes
- Lethargy, loss of appetite, or weight loss
Seek emergency veterinary care immediately if your dog shows:
- Repeated, unproductive vomiting or dry heaving
- A distended or painful abdomen
- Pale or blue gums
- Collapse or inability to stand
- Signs of severe distress
Frequently Asked Questions
Can reverse sneezing make a dog vomit?
Yes. Forceful reverse sneezing can stimulate the gag reflex, causing the dog to retch and bring up small amounts of foam or saliva. This is gagging rather than true vomiting and is generally not a cause for concern if it is occasional and mild.
Is it normal for a dog to gag after reverse sneezing?
Occasional gagging at the end of a reverse sneezing episode is relatively common and usually benign. However, if the gagging becomes frequent, produces bile or blood, or is accompanied by other signs such as loss of appetite or nasal discharge, a veterinary examination is recommended.
Could a foreign object cause both reverse sneezing and vomiting?
Yes. A foreign body in the nasal passages or throat can cause reverse sneezing and may also trigger retching or vomiting. Grass awns, seeds, and small plant material are common culprits. A veterinarian can examine the nasal passages and throat to check for and remove any foreign objects.
Should I feed my dog after an episode of reverse sneezing and vomiting?
If the vomiting appears to be true vomiting rather than gagging from reverse sneezing, it may be best to withhold food for a few hours and offer small amounts of water. If the dog keeps water down, a small bland meal can be offered. If vomiting continues, contact your veterinarian before feeding.
SYMPTOM TRIAGE
If your dog is experiencing both reverse sneezing and vomiting, a structured assessment can help you determine how soon veterinary attention may be needed.
Sources
- Merck Veterinary Manual: "Disorders of the Nasal Cavity in Dogs" and "Vomiting in Dogs"
- American Kennel Club: "What Is Reverse Sneezing in Dogs?"
- VCA Animal Hospitals: "Reverse Sneezing (Pharyngeal Gag Reflex) in Dogs" and "Vomiting in Dogs"
Disclaimer
This article and the PawAI Symptom Triage tool provide general educational information only. They cannot examine your pet, make a diagnosis, or replace advice from a licensed veterinarian. Contact a veterinarian promptly if symptoms are severe, worsening, persistent, or accompanied by emergency warning signs.