Respiration

3.2.5 Respiration Respiration refers to breathing. Normally, an animal breathes with a smooth and effortless movement of the ribs. What is the respiration rate? See page 200. The following signs may signal problems in the respiratory system.

 sudden or jerky breathing  coughing and sneezing  rapid breathing  breathing with difficulty or extra effort  wide-open nostrils in a resting animal (especially horses)

 breathing with the mouth open Note: Breathing with the mouth open may also be due to overheating.

This calf is coughing, has difficulty This sow is hot and is breathing, and has a nasal discharge breathing with her mouth open.