Coughing and Sneezing in Pets
Just like humans, the upper respiratory tract of an animal can be affected by many different kinds of microorganisms and viruses. In dogs and cats, cold-like illnesses can start in the upper respiratory tract, causing symptoms such as coughing and sneezing. If your pets are in need of a veterinarian because of a respiratory ailment, come to New Hope Animal Hospital in Durham for treatment.
Call (919) 490-2000 today!
When the Cold or Flu is Causing Your Pets to Sneeze or Cough
When your pets have an upper respiratory infection, it can resemble the human cold in many ways. In addition to coughing and sneezing, you may also notice your companion animals have a runny nose or eyes, or inflammation of the mouth.
Dogs and cats are also capable of catching the flu, and because most have not been exposed to the virus, their immune systems are not able to fully fight it. Dog flu is often spread through respiratory secretions or contaminated objects while cats can catch the flu due to direct contact with an infected cat or viral particles.
Vaccinating your pets against the flu will not only maintain their health, it can help to prevent illness.
When It Is Kennel Cough
Kennel cough is highly contagious, and it occurs when the upper airways is affected by viruses or bacteria. This condition typically pops up in boarding kennels, shelters, grooming businesses, and at areas where there is a large crowd. Symptoms typically appear about 8 to 10 days after exposure when your pets begin to have a dry, hacking cough. You may also notice eye discharge, a loss of appetite, and a sore throat.
When Health Conditions are Triggering the Symptoms
Many health conditions can make your beloved animals cough or sneeze constantly. These problems include heart disease, lung problems, distemper, chronic bronchitis, and cancer.
Given the time of year, it's imperative that pet owners take steps to provide their companion animals with preventatives to stop these parasites from causing serious health risks and complications.
Treating Your Pets for Coughing and Sneezing
Coughing and sneezing in pets are usually very treatable. Before we can treat the symptoms, our veterinary staff needs to diagnose the underlying cause. Depending how severe the condition is, your veterinarian may suggest giving your animals antibiotics, antivirals, or antihistamines to reduce the discomfort.
If your beloved pets are experiencing constant coughing or sneezing, call New Hope Animal Hospital in Durham today at (919) 490-2000 to make an appointment with our veterinarians. Finding the cause of your pets’ symptoms and treating them is important to us.
