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Hello, my name is***** and I have over 20 years of experience as a veterinarian. I am sorry to hear that your fellow Charlie iis having trouble breathing, gasping for air, and not eating for days.
Thanks. That color means that he is not able to efficiently exchange oxygen, they should be a nice bubble gum pink in color. Unfortunately Cavaliers as a breed are prone to mitral valve disease, and as time goes on their heart has to work extra hard to pump blood effectively through the body. Eventually the heart may fail due to the extra work, and that can lead to fluid accumulating in the lungs and/or abdomen, making oxygen exchange more difficult. That can lead to breathing difficulties. If he cannot exchange oxygen his appetite will be suppressed as his body prioritizes oxygen exchange over eating. Typing more....
Other possible causes are primary lung disease, including pneumonia or a mass(es) in the lungs.
I highly recommend he be seen on an emergency basis ASAP. If this is heart failure we may be able tp turn things around with medications, but the sooner they are started the better. Unfortunately you cannot help him at home. Does that make sense? Any questions?
Great! Please let me know how he fares.
My deepest condolences on your loss, I can understand how devastating this must be. Unfortunately when they go into heart failure things can progress very quickly. I understand that you didn't know how sick your fellow was, so this was likely a big shock for you, and I am so very sorry. Cavaliers are wonderful dogs, but they are prone to devastating heart disease which can be deadly. Please take care, thank you for letting me know.