Kennel Cough and Sneezing

Kennel cough is an umbrella term given to many different types of ailments in dogs and cats that affect breathing. Sneezing may or may not occur in dogs or puppies with kennel cough, but sneezing is more common in feline kennel cough. Mar Vista Animal Medical Center notes that many cases of kennel cough clear up on their own, but kennel cough can aggravate other underlying medical conditions, so all dogs need to go to a veterinarian.

  1. Causes

    • Dogs or cats with kennel cough may also sneeze for several reasons. Their already irritated nasal passages can become more irritated by allergens such as cigarette smoke, pollen, house dust, strong-scented cleaners and perfumes. Any pet with kennel cough should not be exposed to these allergens, advises the "Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook." Another undiagnosed illness also causes sneezing, such as pneumonia or parainfluenza. A dog or cat with a persistent hacking cough and sneezes may suffer from kennel cough, but the pet needs to be checked for other illnesses.

    Misconception

    • Dogs in particular can make a honking noise that sounds like sneezing but actually isn't. Called a "reverse sneeze," it can be caused by post-nasal drip, which can accompany kennel cough. Dogs like pugs and Persian-type cats with brachycephalic or flat noses are more prone to reverse sneezing than dogs or cats with normal or long noses. Dogs can have kennel cough, sneeze and reverse sneeze.

    Warning

    • Kennel cough is extremely contagious, whether it is accompanied by sneezing or not. Any dog or cat suspected of suffering from kennel cough needs to be quarantined from other pets. Do not let the sick dog or cat share food or water bowls with healthy pets. Wash hands after petting or treating the sick pet. People are not affected by kennel cough, according to Mar Vista Animal Medical Center.

    Other Symptoms

    • Kennel cough symptoms vary from pet to pet, but the most common are hacking cough; sneezing; reverse sneezing in cases with post-nasal drip; eye discharge; discharge from the nostrils; lack of appetite; lack of energy; dry heaves; coughing up white foam or yellow phlegm; and fever. Coughing and reverse sneezing worsen when the dog exercises or becomes excited. Cats often have trouble breathing and cough up mucus that may appear like hairballs.