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My dog's sigh sounds like a cry after dental anesthesia. Is it normal?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Male | neutered | 2 years and 6 months old | 17 lbs

Gary had a dental cleaning under anesthesia yesterday. He usually exhales and makes a little “sigh” sound periodically but ever since the dental he has been making a noise that sounds more like a little cry /whine. I can tell it is supposed to be his normal exhale/ sigh, but it is coming out sounding different. Could the tube that was placed in his throat for anesthesia have caused irritation to the airway making his usual noises sound different? Should it return to normal? Otherwise he is fine.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Maria DVM

Answered By Maria DVM

Veterinarian

Published on February 9th, 2019

The tube may have irritated his throat. This is actually common, just like when people have anesthesia. Typically it resolves rather quickly. I would recommend video taping what you are seeing to show your veterinarian. I would just confirm that this is what is going on and they can easily either wait it out or give medication. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach
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