This week, Dr. Manley addresses a reader's concern about her puppy's hiccups.

This week's question:
Dr. Manley,

My 8 week old puppy has been getting the hiccups lately (about three different times in the past few days. Is that normal? Do they get hiccups for the same reason humans do?

Thanks,
Casey

Dr. Manley's Reply:

Hi Casey,

Puppies get the hiccups more often because they are growing. Blood calcium levels are fluctuating as the bones grow. Calcium affects nerve conduction and muscle contraction. A hiccup is a spasm of the diaphragm (the muscle that separate the abdominal and chest cavity). Your puppy will outgrow this.

Thanks for the question....Dr. Manley"

Dr. Cleveland Manley, Jr. is one of the wonderful veterinarians at VCA Pet Doctor in Richardson, TX. He is a graduate of Texas A&M University - College of Veterinary Medicine.