There is no specific treatment for kennel cough. Although most cases will resolve without treatment, medications may be used to speed recovery or minimize symptoms during the course of infection. These include antibiotics that target the Bordetella bacteria as well as cough suppressants and anti-inflammatory medicines.

How long does it take for kennel cough to go away?

The symptoms of kennel cough can last up to a month, although they often last two or three weeks. The symptoms are usually more severe in the first week, when your dog might have very regular coughing fits, with retching and gagging. They might also have a high temperature, runny eyes, or sneezing.

What is the fastest way to cure kennel cough?

Rest and Fluids

Just like a head cold in humans, kennel cough in dogs can be treated best with rest, fluid, and time. Encourage your dog to take it easy for a couple of weeks and drink plenty of water (or clear, unseasoned broth) to stay hydrated. Wet food may help during this time, too.

Do most dogs survive kennel cough?

Is there a treatment for kennel cough? In most cases, dogs will recover from kennel cough without treatment within three weeks, but it can sometimes linger for anything up to six weeks.

What are the symptoms of severe kennel cough?

Symptoms include labored breathing, a moist cough, high fever and nasal discharge. If pneumonia develops, more aggressive treatment is needed. This can sometimes include hospitalization for IV-provided antibiotics, oxygen therapy and fluids.

5 Amazing Home Remedies for Kennel Cough

Can kennel cough turn into something worse?

While many cases of the disease end up being mild, kennel cough can turn into a more severe form of pneumonia in dogs -- which can require hospitalization. This most commonly happens with puppies, dogs with an existing medical condition, and older dogs.

When is kennel cough an emergency?

Instances when your pet needs immediate veterinary care include: Breathing difficulties — If your pet has difficulty breathing, their signs may include increased respiration rate and effort, wheezing, and open-mouthed breathing. Blood — If your pet coughs up blood, seek immediate veterinary care.

What are the worst days of kennel cough?

Over a day or so, this usually progresses to bouts of a hacking cough. Some dogs will cough so forcefully they can vomit (some people do this too!) The first few days are the worst. The cough will often be triggered by things like barking, pulling on the lead, getting excited or going out in cold air.

What do vets prescribe for kennel cough?

Your veterinarian can prescribe antibiotics to help your dog recover. Some of the most widely prescribed antibiotics for kennel cough include Baytril, Doxycycline, and Clavamox.

How do I clean my house after kennel cough?

Aside from Rescue™, numerous cleaning products can effectively kill the bacteria causing kennel cough. We recommend the following: Bleach (usually four ounces per gallon dilution). Care Biocide Plus (usually eight ounces per gallon dilution).

What is a natural antibiotic for dogs' kennel cough?

Honey and Coconut Oil

The most common natural remedy for dogs with a kennel cough, or canine tracheobronchitis, is honey. Manuka honey, which is usually imported from New Zealand, is the most preferred type of honey.

Will Benadryl help kennel cough?

Benadryl is an antihistamine that can alleviate allergy symptoms. However, it may not be effective for your dog's cough. In fact, it might even hide other symptoms, making it harder for your veterinarian to properly diagnose your dog.

How do I know kennel cough is gone?

In most cases mild kennel cough will clear up on it's own within two weeks. Please monitor your dog's symptoms to ensure that they do not continue for over three weeks. Also keep an eye out for more serious symptoms of kennel cough such as lethargic behaviour or no appetite, nasal discharge or rapid breathing.

What to do if kennel cough won't go away?

Because serious, ongoing kennel cough infection can lead to pneumonia, be sure to follow up with your veterinarian if your dog doesn't improve within the expected amount of time.

When is kennel cough no longer contagious?

Most dogs are not contagious after 10 to 14 days of being ill, especially if antibiotics are used in bacterial infections (with an exception being canine distemper virus). So it's important to keep a coughing dog away from other dogs for at least 10 to 14 days.

Can I still walk my dog with kennel cough?

It is generally not advisable to walk your dog with kennel cough, especially if the symptoms are severe or your dog is still in the contagious stage of the illness. Kennel cough is highly contagious and can spread easily to other dogs, particularly in areas where dogs congregate, like parks and sidewalks.

Can I leave my dog alone with kennel cough?

Never leave your dog alone in a steamy room or force them to stay in it if they aren't relaxed. Keep your dog away from others - remember your dog will be very contagious whilst they are poorly and can continue to spread kennel cough for 2-3 weeks after their symptoms have cleared.

How did my dog get kennel cough at home?

Kennel cough in dogs is typically spread when a healthy pup is exposed to the respiratory secretions of an infected dog. This can be through coughing or sneezing. Dogs can also contract kennel cough from infected objects (such as shared toys, food bowls, or water bowls).

Should I sleep with my dog with kennel cough?

Adequate rest is one of the best remedies for kennel cough. If your dog gets plenty of sleep, it will give his body a chance to fight the virus and recover properly. Put your dog in a room by himself, away from kids and other pets. This way, he will not be disturbed while trying to rest.

How to tell if kennel cough turns into pneumonia?

Specific diagnostic tests can be required in these instances. Symptoms of bacterial pneumonia in dogs may include a moist or productive cough, rapid respiratory (breathing) rate, nasal discharge, loud breathing sounds, malaise/depression, loss of appetite, and/or weight loss.

What is the longest kennel cough can last?

In a healthy dog, kennel cough usually lasts 1 to 3 weeks. But for senior dogs and dogs with other medical conditions, kennel cough can linger for up to 6 weeks. It is possible for kennel cough to develop into pneumonia.

Does honey help with kennel cough?

Honey. Honey has been used for thousands of years as a natural medicine. The antimicrobial properties are great for treating a dog's cough. Honey's anti-inflammatory properties are also good for soothing sore throats from frequent coughing.

What home remedy can I give my dog for coughing?

Give your dog half to one teaspoon of honey, mixed with a little warm water. Give as it is, mixed with some food, or add the honey to some lovely soothing sage tea.

What is the best medicine for kennel cough?

Examples of common antibiotics used in serious cases are Doxycycline, Trimethoprim-sulfa, Clavamox, or Baytril. Even cured pets may still be contagious to other pets, since pets infected with Bordatella can shed bacteria for 6-10 weeks.

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