How to Treat Kennel Cough at Home: Safe and Effective Remedies

That hacking, honking cough – is it just a cold, or something more serious? If your dog sounds like they’re trying to dislodge a tennis ball from their throat, there’s a good chance they’ve contracted kennel cough, a highly contagious respiratory infection common among dogs, especially those who frequent boarding facilities, dog parks, or training classes. While a trip to the vet is always a good idea, especially for severe cases or puppies, many mild cases of kennel cough can be effectively managed at home with proper care and attention.

Kennel cough, while usually not life-threatening, can be incredibly distressing for both you and your furry friend. The persistent coughing can disrupt sleep, reduce appetite, and generally make your dog feel miserable. Knowing how to provide comfort and support at home can significantly alleviate their symptoms, speed up recovery, and prevent potential complications. By understanding the underlying causes and implementing simple home remedies, you can play a vital role in getting your dog back to their happy, healthy self.

What are the best ways to soothe my dog’s cough and help them recover at home?

What home remedies can soothe my dog’s kennel cough?

While it’s crucial to consult with your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan, several home remedies can help soothe your dog’s kennel cough symptoms and provide comfort. These remedies focus on easing throat irritation and promoting rest, which aids in recovery. A humidifier, honey, and rest are your best bets for soothing a dog with kennel cough at home.

Increasing humidity can significantly help soothe an irritated airway. Use a humidifier in the rooms where your dog spends most of their time, or even bring your dog into the bathroom with you while you shower to let them inhale the steam. Be sure the bathroom is well-ventilated afterward to prevent mold growth. Honey is a natural cough suppressant and can help soothe a sore throat. Give your dog a small amount of honey (about ½ teaspoon for small dogs and 1-2 teaspoons for larger dogs) mixed with warm water a few times a day. It’s also essential to provide a stress-free environment. Avoid strenuous exercise and excitement, as these can exacerbate coughing. Opt for short, gentle walks outside in a harness instead of a collar, as collars can put pressure on the trachea and worsen the cough. Make sure your dog has plenty of fresh water and is eating a nutritious diet to support their immune system. Avoid using air fresheners, strong cleaning products, or anything that might irritate their respiratory system.

How often should I use a humidifier to help with kennel cough?

Use a humidifier as often as possible, ideally almost constantly, to help relieve kennel cough symptoms. Aim for consistent use, especially during the night when coughing might be more disruptive and when air tends to be drier. Monitor humidity levels and adjust usage accordingly to avoid creating an environment that is too damp, which could promote mold growth.

Consistent humidity is key to soothing the irritated airways of a dog suffering from kennel cough. The moist air helps to loosen mucus, making it easier for your dog to cough it up and clear their respiratory system. Increased humidity also reduces the irritation in the throat that triggers the harsh, dry cough characteristic of kennel cough. Think of it like a cough drop for their entire respiratory system. However, balance is important. Overly humid environments can encourage the growth of mold and mildew, which can worsen respiratory issues and even lead to secondary infections. Regularly check and clean your humidifier according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Monitor the humidity levels in the room using a hygrometer; ideally, aim for a range of 50-60% humidity. If you notice condensation on windows or dampness in the room, reduce humidifier use. If using a cool-mist humidifier, distilled water is recommended. Consider using the humidifier in the rooms where your dog spends most of their time, especially their sleeping area. You can also take your dog into a steamy bathroom for 10-15 minutes several times a day if consistent humidifier use isn’t feasible. Remember to always supervise your dog while the humidifier is operating and ensure they cannot chew on the cord or knock it over.

Is honey safe and effective for treating kennel cough at home?

Yes, honey can be a safe and effective home remedy for kennel cough, primarily due to its soothing properties and potential antibacterial effects. Its ability to coat and soothe the irritated throat lining helps reduce coughing, and some studies suggest honey possesses mild antibacterial properties that may help combat the underlying infection. However, it’s crucial to use honey as a supportive treatment and not as a replacement for veterinary care, especially if the cough is severe or accompanied by other concerning symptoms.

Honey works by providing a demulcent effect, which means it coats the throat, reducing irritation and the urge to cough. The thickness of honey helps to soothe the inflamed tissues. Furthermore, natural honey contains small amounts of hydrogen peroxide, which may contribute to its antibacterial qualities. When using honey, opt for raw, unfiltered honey if possible, as it retains more of its beneficial enzymes and antioxidants. A typical dosage for dogs is ½ teaspoon for small breeds and 1-2 teaspoons for larger breeds, given 2-3 times daily. While honey offers potential benefits, it’s vital to monitor your dog’s condition closely. If the coughing worsens, your dog develops a fever, loses appetite, has difficulty breathing, or appears lethargic, seek immediate veterinary attention. These symptoms could indicate a more serious condition requiring antibiotics or other interventions. Remember that honey is a complementary treatment and should be used alongside, not instead of, professional veterinary advice and prescribed medications. In addition, honey is not recommended for puppies under one year of age or dogs with diabetes, due to the risk of botulism and its high sugar content, respectively.

What kind of exercise is okay for a dog with kennel cough?

Generally, strenuous exercise is not recommended for dogs with kennel cough. Short, gentle leash walks for potty breaks are usually fine, but avoid activities that cause heavy breathing or excitement, as these can worsen the coughing.

The goal during kennel cough is to allow your dog’s respiratory system to rest and recover. Intense physical activity can irritate the already inflamed airways, leading to more severe coughing fits and potentially prolonging the illness. Consider shortening your dog’s usual walks and keeping them at a leisurely pace. Observe your dog closely during these short walks; if they start coughing excessively or seem fatigued, immediately return home.

Instead of physical exertion, focus on providing mental stimulation through puzzle toys or gentle training sessions that don’t involve running or jumping. Ensure your dog has a quiet, comfortable place to rest and recover. Always consult with your veterinarian for personalized advice regarding exercise and activity levels for your dog’s specific condition.

How do I clean to prevent kennel cough from spreading at home?

To prevent kennel cough from spreading at home, thoroughly disinfect all surfaces and items your infected dog comes into contact with using a diluted bleach solution (1 part bleach to 32 parts water) or a veterinarian-approved disinfectant. Focus on areas like food and water bowls, bedding, toys, and any surfaces where your dog coughs or sneezes.

Kennel cough is highly contagious, so meticulous cleaning is crucial. The virus or bacteria causing the infection can survive on surfaces for a period of time, making it possible for other pets in the household to contract the illness. Regular cleaning and disinfection dramatically reduces this risk. Pay special attention to porous surfaces like fabric bedding, which should be thoroughly washed in hot water with detergent and dried on high heat, if possible. If an item cannot be washed, consider discarding it to eliminate the potential for harboring the pathogen. Besides disinfecting surfaces, practice good hygiene yourself. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after interacting with your infected dog or handling any of their belongings. This will prevent you from inadvertently spreading the infection to other animals or people. Additionally, if you have other pets, consider isolating the infected dog in a separate room with its own dedicated supplies until they are no longer contagious, typically for several days after the coughing subsides.

When is kennel cough at home treatment not enough and I need a vet?

Home treatment for kennel cough is generally suitable for mild cases where the dog is eating, drinking, and otherwise behaving normally, despite the cough. However, veterinary attention is crucial if your dog develops any concerning symptoms such as lethargy, loss of appetite, difficulty breathing, fever, or if the cough worsens or persists for more than a week despite home care. These signs can indicate a more serious secondary infection like pneumonia or a different underlying health issue that requires professional diagnosis and treatment.

While supportive care at home, such as ensuring your dog stays hydrated, well-nourished, and avoids strenuous activity or irritants like smoke, can ease symptoms, it doesn’t address the underlying infection in some cases. If your dog is showing signs of systemic illness – meaning the infection is affecting their entire body – such as a fever (rectal temperature above 103.5°F or 39.7°C), antibiotics or other medications prescribed by a veterinarian may be necessary to combat the infection and prevent complications. Difficulty breathing is a particularly alarming sign. Kennel cough can sometimes irritate the airways to the point where it becomes difficult for the dog to breathe, or it could signal a more severe condition. Labored breathing, rapid breathing, or blue-tinged gums (cyanosis) are all emergencies that require immediate veterinary intervention. Similarly, a severe loss of appetite or inability to keep down food and water can lead to dehydration and weakness, requiring veterinary support with fluids and nutritional support. If you are ever unsure about the severity of your dog’s cough, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and contact your veterinarian.

What foods should I feed my dog to help them recover from kennel cough?

When your dog is recovering from kennel cough, focus on providing soft, palatable foods that are easy to swallow and soothing to their irritated throat. Warm, moist foods like softened kibble, plain cooked chicken or turkey with rice, or even diluted baby food (ensure it’s onion and garlic-free) can encourage eating and provide essential nutrients. Hydration is also key, so consider adding broth or water to their food.

A dog with kennel cough often experiences a decreased appetite due to discomfort and inflammation in their throat. Therefore, tempting them with highly palatable options is crucial. Soft foods minimize the strain on their throat when swallowing, reducing coughing episodes triggered by eating. Avoid dry, hard kibble or treats that could further irritate their airways.

In addition to providing easily digestible and soothing food, you should also consider nutrient-rich options to support their immune system. The addition of certain ingredients can be beneficial:

• Bone broth: Provides hydration, electrolytes, and collagen which may have soothing properties.
• Pumpkin puree: Offers fiber to aid digestion and contains vitamins A and C, both beneficial for immunity.
• Plain yogurt (with active cultures): Probiotics can help support a healthy gut, which is linked to a stronger immune system. Always introduce new foods gradually to prevent any digestive upset. If your dog refuses to eat or their condition worsens despite dietary changes, consult your veterinarian for further advice.

Well, that’s the gist of it! Taking care of your furry friend when they’re under the weather is never fun, but with a little patience and these tips, hopefully they’ll be back to their bouncy selves in no time. Thanks for reading, and be sure to check back soon for more helpful hints on keeping your pets happy and healthy!