Is Kennel Cough Contagious

Kennel cough, also known as canine cough, is a common cold like disease found in dogs and cats. It is a respiratory disease characterized by inflammation of the respiratory tract and is also known as Infectious tracheobronchitis. It is a fairly common disease and can be found in dogs of all age groups. Let us know more on kennel cough in dogs.

Kennel Cough in Dogs

Kennel cough can be caused due to a variety of viruses like canine adenovirus, canine parainfluenza virus, canine distemper, etc. Similarly, bacteria like Bordetella bronchiseptica can also be one of the causes of kennel cough in dogs. Kennel cough is a highly contagious disease and is spread through the air. When an infected dog coughs or sneezes, the virus or the bacteria mixes with the air. Hence, when a healthy dog comes in contact with the infected dog, he too gets infected with kennel cough.

Kennel Cough Symptoms and Treatment

The symptoms of kennel cough appear within 5 - 10 days on exposure and can last for nearly 2 - 3 weeks. Kennel cough symptoms are similar to those of common cold, like dry and harsh cough, fever, sneezing and snorting. Along with these, other symptoms like retching, vomiting, nausea, anorexia, etc., are also observed. During this time, the trachea of the dogs becomes very sensitive, and even a slight pressing of it caused due to pressure of the collar or after exercise can lead to vomiting.

Kennel cough can progress into pneumonia symptoms in dogs, or other respiratory complications in case of puppies or very old dogs. Therefore, one needs to be very careful in this case. Although the symptoms subside after a few days, it is essential to take medications. Bacterial infection can be treated by antibiotics. One should also remember that prevention of kennel cough is possible through vaccination against all the above mentioned virus. Disinfecting dog kennels and keeping the dog away from other infected dogs helps in preventing the spread of kennel cough. Now let us have a look at some of the frequently asked questions.

Read more on:

• Kennel Cough Treatment
• Home Treatment for Kennel Cough

Q-Is kennel cough contagious?
A- This is one of the most frequently asked questions. Kennel cough is highly contagious as it is an air borne disease, i.e., it is a disease that is transmitted through the air. Specially, the one caused by bacteria is more contagious than the other types.

Q- For how long is kennel cough contagious?
A- The kennel cough contagious period can be from 2 - 3 weeks. Kennel cough is contagious as long as the dog shows related symptoms, i.e., as long as the disease is present. Therefore, it is essential to keep the infected dogs isolated for the stipulated period of time.

Q- Is kennel cough contagious to cats?
A- As it is an air borne disease, cats can also get infected with kennel cough. Although cats do not show symptoms like cough; they can have a runny nose and fever.

Q- Is Kennel Cough Contagious to Humans?
A- There are high chances of kennel cough being contagious to people who are in close contact with the infected pets. On the other hand, kennel cough is contagious to people with a weakened immune system, like babies, children or old people. Read more on is kennel cough contagious to humans.
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• Dog Health
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The kennel cough contagious period is quite long, and hence, it is better to take certain precautions to keep off the occurrence of this disease. Maintaining hygiene and vaccination are the only effective means of preventing kennel cough in pets as well as in humans. If you see the slightest symptoms of infection in your pet, it is better to take it to the vet and have it treated as soon as possible.