The nasal cavity is very difficult to examine as it is filled with scrolls of bone called turbinates This information is not meant to be a substitute for veterinary care. Always follow the instructions provided by your veterinarian. The nostrils open into 2 major air passages that end in the throat. The nasal passages are filled with very fine scrolls of bone called turbinates.
Air is warmed and filtered as it passes through the turbinates in the nose on the way to the lungs.
Anatomy of the nose. Front-on view of the nose and upper front teeth of a dog showing the delicate, complex structure of the turbinate bones. Characteristics of the pet and of the discharge can help identify the cause of nasal discharge There are several causes of nasal discharge in both dogs and cats. The age of the pet and the presence or absence of other signs influences which causes are more likely. Young puppies and kittens that are still nursing their mothers that have milk coming from their nose should be examined for a cleft palette.