Kennel cough is actually a contagious respiratory disease, and although kennel cough may sound scary, in most cases it is not serious and most dogs will recover without treatment. However, it is important to be aware that it can still be life-threatening, especially in puppies with poor resistance.

In this article, we will discuss

• What Is Kennel Cough?

• What are the Symptoms of Kennel Cough?

• How Is Kennel Cough Treated?

• Can Kennel Cough Be Prevented?

• FAQ about Kennel Cough

What Is Kennel Cough?

Kennel cough, also known as canine infectious tracheobronchitis, is a highly contagious respiratory disease that affects dogs. It is typically caused by a combination of bacteria and viruses, including Bordetella bronchiseptica and canine parainfluenza virus.

The infection affects the respiratory system of dogs and can cause symptoms such as persistent cough, retching, gagging, and difficulty breathing. The cough is often described as a dry, hacking cough, similar to the sound of honking.

Most cases of kennel cough are mild and resolve on their own within a few weeks, but in some cases, the infection can progress to pneumonia, which can be more severe and require medical treatment. Vaccines are available to help prevent kennel cough, and it is important to keep your dog up to date on their vaccinations and to avoid exposing them to infected dogs or contaminated environments.

What are the Symptoms of Kennel Cough?

Kennel cough, also known as infectious tracheobronchitis, is a highly contagious respiratory disease in dogs. The symptoms of kennel cough can vary from mild to severe, and may include:

• A dry, hacking cough
• Sneezing
• Nasal discharge
• Fever
• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy
• Trouble breathing
• Vomiting

In mild cases, a dog may only exhibit a cough that lasts for a few days. However, in severe cases, the cough can last for several weeks and may be accompanied by other symptoms. It's important to note that some dogs may not show any symptoms at all, but can still spread the disease to other dogs. If you suspect that your dog has kennel cough, it's important to contact your veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment.

Canine Influenza vs Kennel Cough

Canine influenza is caused by the H3N8 and H3N2 influenza viruses, which are highly contagious and can cause respiratory symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, fever, nasal discharge, and lethargy. In severe cases, dogs may develop pneumonia. Canine influenza is typically spread through direct contact with infected dogs, contaminated surfaces, or through the air.

Kennel cough is caused by a variety of different viruses and bacteria, including Bordetella bronchiseptica and canine parainfluenza virus. The disease is highly contagious and causes a dry, hacking cough that can be triggered by exercise or excitement. Other symptoms may include nasal discharge, fever, and lethargy. Kennel cough is often spread in environments where dogs are in close proximity to each other, such as kennels, dog shows, and daycare centers.

How Is Kennel Cough Treated?

Kennel cough is a respiratory infection that affects dogs. It is caused by a combination of viruses and bacteria and is highly contagious. Treatment for kennel cough depends on the severity of the symptoms and the underlying cause.

Here are some common treatment options:

• Antibiotics: Antibiotics are prescribed if the cause of the kennel cough is bacterial. Antibiotics can help to reduce the severity of symptoms and prevent the infection from spreading.
• Cough suppressants: Cough suppressants can be given to dogs with a persistent cough. These medications can help to reduce the coughing and make the dog more comfortable.
• Rest and isolation: Rest and isolation are important for dogs with kennel cough. The dog should be kept in a quiet and comfortable environment to help them recover. It is also important to keep the dog away from other dogs to prevent the spread of the infection.
• Fluid therapy: Dogs with kennel cough may become dehydrated due to their illness. Fluid therapy can help to keep the dog hydrated and support their immune system.
• Vaccination: Prevention is always better than cure. Vaccination against kennel cough can help to protect your dog from the infection.
• Keeping your dog in a well-humidified area and using a carrier instead of a collar, especially for dogs on a tight leash, will minimize coughing.

It is important to note that not all cases of kennel cough require treatment. Mild cases of kennel cough can resolve on their own with rest and time. However, if your dog is showing signs of kennel cough, it is best to consult with a veterinarian to determine the appropriate treatment plan.

Recommended medicines

Cough Relief Combination - Doxycycline Hyclate Tablets + Jiebai Granules + IGY Supplement

Can Kennel Cough Be Prevented?

Yes, kennel cough can be prevented through vaccination. Kennel cough is a highly contagious respiratory disease in dogs, which is caused by a combination of viruses and bacteria. Vaccines are available that can help protect dogs against the most common strains of the virus and bacteria that cause kennel cough.

There are two main types of vaccines available for kennel cough: the injectable vaccine and the intranasal vaccine. The injectable vaccine is given as an injection and is typically administered by a veterinarian. The intranasal vaccine is administered as drops into the nose and can be given by the dog owner.

It is important to note that while vaccination can help reduce the risk of kennel cough, it is not 100% effective. In addition, other preventive measures such as good hygiene, avoiding contact with infected dogs, and keeping dogs away from crowded or stressful environments can also help reduce the risk of kennel cough. If your dog develops symptoms of kennel cough, such as coughing, sneezing, or nasal discharge, it is important to seek veterinary care right away to help manage the disease and prevent further spread to other dogs.

FAQ

Can Humans Get Kennel Cough from Dogs?

Yes, humans can get kennel cough from dogs, although it is rare. Kennel cough is a highly contagious respiratory infection that is caused by several different bacteria and viruses, including Bordetella bronchiseptica, parainfluenza virus, and canine adenovirus.

Symptoms of kennel cough in humans can include a persistent cough, a runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, fever, and fatigue. If you suspect that you or someone you know has contracted kennel cough from a dog, it's important to seek medical attention and inform your doctor that you may have been exposed to the infection.

Can Kennel Cough Cause Diarrhea?

Kennel cough, which is a highly contagious respiratory infection in dogs, is not typically known to cause diarrhea. However, some dogs may develop gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea in addition to coughing. These symptoms may be caused by a secondary bacterial infection, stress, or changes in the dog's diet or environment.

If your dog is experiencing diarrhea, it is important to monitor their condition closely and consult with a veterinarian if the symptoms persist or worsen. The veterinarian can perform a physical examination and may recommend diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause of the diarrhea and provide appropriate treatment.

How Long Should I Quarantine My Dog with Kennel Cough?

Typically, dogs with kennel cough are contagious for about 2-3 weeks, although this can vary depending on the severity of the infection and the dog's overall health.

During this time, it is important to keep your dog isolated from other dogs to prevent the spread of the infection. This may involve keeping your dog at home and avoiding contact with other dogs during walks or trips to the park. Your veterinarian may also recommend additional measures to help prevent the spread of the infection, such as disinfecting your dog's bedding and toys and washing your hands thoroughly after handling your dog.

In general, it is recommended to quarantine your dog with kennel cough for at least two weeks to prevent the spread of the infection to other dogs. 

Is Kennel Cough Deadly?

In most cases, kennel cough is not deadly and can be treated with appropriate veterinary care. However, in rare cases, kennel cough can lead to pneumonia, which can be a more serious condition that may require more extensive treatment.

It's important to note that some dogs, such as puppies, older dogs, or dogs with weakened immune systems, may be at a higher risk of developing complications from kennel cough. If your dog is showing symptoms of kennel cough, such as a persistent cough, fever, or lethargy, it's important to take them to a veterinarian for an evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Can Humans Spread Kennel Cough?

Yes, humans can potentially spread kennel cough to dogs, although it is rare. It is caused by a variety of viruses and bacteria, such as Bordetella bronchiseptica and canine parainfluenza virus, and is highly contagious among dogs.

While humans are not the primary host for these microorganisms, they can potentially carry and transmit them to dogs. This can occur if a person has been in contact with an infected dog and then comes into contact with a healthy dog. The bacteria or viruses can be transferred on clothing, shoes, or other objects that come into contact with the infected dog.

Therefore, it is important for humans to practice good hygiene and take precautions when around dogs with kennel cough, such as washing hands regularly and changing clothes before coming into contact with other dogs. It is also recommended to avoid contact with infected dogs until they have fully recovered.

Can Cats Get Kennel Cough?

In cats, the most common cause of respiratory infections is feline herpesvirus and feline calicivirus. These viruses are highly contagious and can spread through contact with infected cats or contaminated surfaces. The symptoms of these infections can include coughing, sneezing, runny nose, and fever, which are similar to the symptoms of kennel cough in dogs.

If you suspect that your cat may have a respiratory infection, it is important to take them to a veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment. Your vet may recommend medications to manage the symptoms, such as antibiotics or antiviral drugs, as well as supportive care to help your cat recover more quickly. It is also important to keep your cat away from other cats until they have fully recovered to prevent the spread of infection.