Is Drinking Lots of Water a Symptom of Kennel Cough?

Drinking lots of water is not a symptom of kennel cough. A symptom of kennel cough is a dry cough that may sound more like a honk than a cough. Often the dog will make a gagging sound after the cough. That is usually the only symptom of kennel cough. Drinking lots of water, however, is a symptom of diabetes or Cushing's disease.

  1. Other Symptoms

    • According to "The Veterinarians' Guide to Your Dog's Symptoms," other symptoms of diabetes include increased appetite, increased urination and weight loss. Other symptoms for Cushing's disease are also increased appetite and increased urination, but there also is noticeable hair loss instead of weight loss, and the abdomen may look distended.

    Theories/Speculation

    • It is possible for a dog that is always thirsty to have both diabetes mellitus and Cushing's disease. It also is possible for a dog with both Cushing's disease and diabetes to get treatment and survive through diet changes and medication. If a tumor in the pituitary or adrenal gland is the cause of Cushing's disease, then the gland may need to be surgically removed.

    Time Frame

    • A dog with diabetes or Cushing's disease will be thirsty far more than usual for all of the time they are awake. They usually hang around their water bowls, may steal other pet's or people's drinks, and lap up any puddle or spot of moisture they come across. They will be thirsty no matter how cool the day is or how much exercise they have done. They may even go directly to their water bowls when waking up.

    Significance

    • A diabetic dog has lost the ability to properly make or absorb glucose. The body needs glucose in order to give fuel to the cells. When the body needs more fuel, the dog will eat and drink. But with diabetes, the dog will never be able to drink enough to satisfy the body's needs. It is possible for a diabetic dog to become dehydrated, even if that dog is constantly drinking.

    Warning

    • If a dog is drinking far more frequently than usual, he needs to be taken to a vet as soon as possible. If the problem is diabetes, then it will get worse over time and could lead to death. According to "Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook," if Cushing's disease isn't treated, the dog will be likely to get diabetes, congestive heart failure or hypertension.