Chihuahua Kennel Cough Treatment

Kennel cough is a contagious respiratory disease in chihuahuas and other dogs. It is caused by a bacteria called bordetella. If your pet is not exposed to other animals in situations such as kennels, dog shows or obedience schools, kennel cough will not be an issue. However, if he is around other dogs, be aware of signs, symptoms, treatment and prevention in order to be equipped to help your pet.

  1. Symptoms

    • The symptoms of kennel cough and other respiratory illnesses can seem very serious. However, dogs usually stay active during the course of the illness and appear to not feel sick. The primary sign of this illness is high pitched, honk-like coughing. Your pet may also vomit phlegm. If your chihuahua has kennel cough, he may have intense coughing when active. This coughing can be painful for him, so try to limit activity to avoid these episodes.

    Veterinary Intervention

    • Kennel cough sounds bad, but is similar to a human's common cold. It does not need veterinary intervention unless you see other signs in your pet. The concern with this illness is that sometimes it can progress into pneumonia. If his symptoms include fever, blood in phlegm, lack of appetite or breathing difficulties, he should see his vet immediately for evaluation and treatment. The same is true for a cough that continues for two to three days and doesn't improve.

    Contracting Kennel Cough

    • The chihuahua's normal respiratory tract has a safeguard called the mucociliary escalator that traps infectious agents and moves them in mucus to the throat to be coughed up or swallowed. When the mucociliary escalator is damaged by stress, dust, cigarette smoke, various viruses or even cold temperature, infectious agents such as the bordetella virus are able to get into the body. When this occurs, kennel cough can result.

    Diagnosis

    • In order to diagnose your pet's condition, the veterinarian will rub the larynx. This will cause the chihuahua to cough if he has kennel cough. If there is mucus, the vet will probably suggest X-rays to make sure there is no pneumonia. If there is pneumonia or any other secondary infection present, an antibiotic such as azithromycin may be prescribed. However, if it is minor to moderate kennel cough it normally will clear up without treatment.

    Vaccinate

    • If your chihuahua will be in areas with other dogs, especially buildings with poor circulation and warm air, remember to get him vaccinated. If you need protection quickly for your pet, there is an intranasal vaccine (as compared to the normal injectable vaccine). This is great for immediate pet contact situations. You can vaccinate your dog at four weeks of age or older.

    Warning

    • If your pet does contract the illness, remember to keep him away from other dogs due to the contagiousness of the illness. You can keep him comfortable and treat with cough suppressants and pain relievers as directed by your vet. Do not treat your animal without consulting your veterinarian.