Do you share your home with both a furry feline and a cuddly canine? If so, you’re probably always on the lookout for ways to keep them both healthy and happy. One thing to be aware of is the potential risks of common illnesses that can be passed between dogs and cats. Kennel cough is one such respiratory infection that can affect both species.
But here’s the million-dollar question – Can cats get kennel cough from dogs? The answer isn’t as black and white as you might expect. While it’s technically possible for cats to catch kennel cough from dogs, it’s not very likely. This is because kennel cough is primarily a canine disease, with dogs being the main carriers and spreaders.
That said, it’s still essential to understand the ins and outs of kennel cough so that you can take appropriate measures to protect your furry family members. In this blog post, we’ll dive into what exactly kennel cough is, how it spreads, and the likelihood of your cat catching it from your dog. Plus, we’ll provide some practical tips on how to prevent the disease from spreading and what steps to take if your pet shows symptoms of kennel cough.
So buckle up and get ready to learn everything you need to know about keeping your pets healthy in the face of kennel cough.
What is Kennel Cough?
As someone who is well-versed in pet health, I’m often asked about kennel cough. This disease, also known as canine infectious tracheobronchitis, is a highly contagious respiratory illness that affects dogs. It’s caused by a combination of bacterial and viral agents and can be transmitted through direct contact with infected dogs or contaminated surfaces, such as food bowls, toys, and bedding.
The most common symptoms of kennel cough include a dry hacking cough, retching, gagging, and sneezing. These symptoms can persist for several weeks and may be triggered by exercise or excitement. However, the disease can also progress to pneumonia, which can be life-threatening to dogs.
Although kennel cough primarily affects dogs, cats can also contract the disease from infected dogs. If your cat lives in close proximity to dogs or shares a household with them, they are at higher risk of contracting the disease. Therefore, it’s crucial for pet owners to monitor their cats for any signs of respiratory illness if they have been exposed to an infected dog.
If you suspect that your pet has been exposed or shows any signs of respiratory illness, it’s important to seek prompt veterinary care. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent the disease from progressing and causing serious complications.
Can Cats Get Kennel Cough From Dogs?
The good news is that cats cannot catch kennel cough from dogs, but there are still important things to know about respiratory illnesses in our pets.
Kennel cough, also known as canine infectious tracheobronchitis, is caused by a combination of viruses and bacteria that affect dogs’ respiratory systems. While some of these viruses and bacteria can affect other animals, such as cats, they do not cause kennel cough in non-canine species. This means that even if your dog has kennel cough, your cat cannot catch it.
However, cats can still develop respiratory infections caused by different viruses and bacteria than those that cause kennel cough in dogs. Some common respiratory infections that can affect cats include feline herpesvirus and feline calicivirus. These illnesses can cause symptoms similar to kennel cough in dogs, such as coughing, sneezing, and a runny nose.
It’s important to note that while cats cannot catch kennel cough from dogs, they can still be carriers of the bacteria that cause it. If your cat is exposed to a dog with kennel cough, they may not become sick themselves but could potentially spread the bacteria to other dogs. This is why it’s always a good idea to keep sick pets separated from healthy ones to prevent the spread of illness.
Reasons Why Cats are Not Susceptible to Kennel Cough
As a pet owner, you know that keeping your furry friends healthy is a top priority. One of the biggest concerns for dog owners is kennel cough, a highly contagious respiratory disease. However, did you know that cats are not susceptible to this disease? Here are five fascinating reasons why.
Unique Respiratory System
Cats have a respiratory system that is different from dogs. Their airways are narrower, which restricts the entry of foreign particles and pathogens, making them less prone to respiratory infections. Unlike dogs, cats have a more robust respiratory system that is less susceptible to respiratory diseases.
Different Viruses and Bacteria
Kennel cough in dogs is caused by a combination of bacteria and viruses that are specific to dogs, particularly Bordetella bronchiseptica bacteria. On the other hand, feline upper respiratory infections are caused by a combination of viruses such as feline calicivirus and herpesvirus. This means that even if a cat comes in contact with an infected dog, it is unlikely to develop the disease.
Stronger Immune System
Cats have a stronger immune system than dogs when it comes to respiratory infections. Their immune system responds quickly and effectively to invading pathogens, reducing the severity and duration of illnesses. This efficiency helps cats recover quickly from respiratory infections and lowers their risk of secondary complications.
Lifestyle Differences
Cats and dogs have different lifestyles, which can affect their susceptibility to diseases. Dogs are social animals that frequently interact with other dogs in boarding kennels, daycare centers, and dog parks, increasing their chances of exposure to kennel cough. Conversely, cats are more solitary animals and do not have as many opportunities for exposure to infectious diseases.
Efficient Recovery: Cats have an efficient immune system that can quickly fight off infections. This helps them recover quickly from respiratory infections and minimize the risk of secondary complications. As a result, even if a cat does contract a respiratory infection, it is unlikely to develop into a severe illness.
Symptoms That May Occur in Cats Exposed to Kennel Cough
While this respiratory illness is more common in dogs, cats can still be affected if they come into contact with the bacteria or virus causing it. If your cat lives with dogs or frequents public places where dogs are present, they may be at a higher risk of developing symptoms.
The most noticeable symptom of kennel cough in cats is persistent coughing. This cough can be dry and hacking or moist and productive, leading to the production of phlegm or mucus. Other symptoms to look out for include sneezing, a runny nose, watery eyes, lethargy, loss of appetite, and fever. Keep in mind that these symptoms could also indicate other respiratory illnesses in cats. It’s crucial to seek veterinary advice if you notice any of these symptoms in your cat.
Kennel cough in cats may resolve on its own within a few weeks, but treatment may be necessary if their symptoms are severe or they have an underlying health condition that weakens their immune system. Your veterinarian may recommend antibiotics, antihistamines, or cough suppressants to help alleviate the symptoms.
Prevention is key when it comes to protecting your cat from kennel cough. To decrease the risk of exposure, keep your cat away from infected dogs and avoid taking them to public areas where infected dogs may be present. Although there is no vaccine available specifically for cats, some veterinarians may recommend vaccinating them against certain respiratory infections that can cause similar symptoms.
Other Infections that Can be Transmitted Between Dogs and Cats
Although kennel cough is a well-known disease that can affect both species, there are several other infections that you should be aware of to keep your furry friends healthy.
One such infection is ringworm, a fungal infection that can cause hair loss, skin lesions, and intense itching in both dogs and cats. If you notice any of these symptoms in your pet, seeking veterinary care as soon as possible is crucial.
Leptospirosis is another bacterial infection that can be transmitted through contact with infected animal urine. This disease can cause fever, vomiting, and diarrhea in both pets and humans. To prevent the spread of leptospirosis, it’s crucial to keep your pet’s environment clean and avoid letting them drink from stagnant water sources.
Toxoplasmosis is a parasitic infection that can also affect both dogs and cats. Although it typically doesn’t cause symptoms in healthy pets, it can be dangerous for pregnant women and individuals with weakened immune systems. To prevent the spread of this disease, it’s vital to practice good hygiene and keep your pet’s living area clean.
In addition to these infections, salmonella, E. coli, and Giardia are other diseases that can be transmitted between pets. Practicing good hygiene and keeping your pet’s living area clean will help prevent the spread of these illnesses.
Vaccinations for Dogs and Cats
One of the most crucial steps in achieving this goal is by ensuring that your pets receive the necessary vaccinations. Vaccines play a vital role in protecting your pets from various illnesses, including kennel cough, which can be quite devastating if left untreated.
For dogs, one of the core vaccinations is the kennel cough vaccine, which is often included in their annual booster shot. This vaccine helps protect against Bordetella bacteria, the most common cause of kennel cough in dogs. While highly effective, it’s essential to note that this vaccine isn’t 100% foolproof. Some dogs may still contract kennel cough even after being vaccinated.
On the other hand, for cats, there isn’t a specific vaccine available for kennel cough. However, there are vaccines for feline herpesvirus and feline calicivirus, two common causes of upper respiratory infections in cats. These vaccines can help reduce the severity of symptoms if a cat does contract an upper respiratory infection. Still, they don’t provide complete protection against all types of respiratory illnesses.
It’s crucial to work closely with your veterinarian to determine which vaccines are necessary for your pets based on their age, health status, and lifestyle. Some pets may require additional vaccinations depending on their exposure risks. For example, if your dog frequently visits boarding facilities or dog parks, they may need extra protection against other contagious diseases.
Conclusion
To sum up, while it is possible for cats to contract kennel cough from dogs, the likelihood of this happening is relatively low. Kennel cough is primarily a canine disease that spreads among dogs. However, it’s worth noting that there are other illnesses that can be transmitted between cats and dogs. Therefore, it’s crucial to keep your pets’ vaccinations up to date and consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns about their health.
It’s important to understand the ins and outs of kennel cough so that you can take appropriate measures to protect your furry family members. If you suspect that your pet has been exposed or shows any signs of respiratory illness, seek prompt veterinary care. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent the disease from progressing and causing serious complications.
Prevention is key when it comes to protecting your cat from kennel cough. To decrease the risk of exposure, keep your cat away from infected dogs and avoid taking them to public areas where infected dogs may be present. Although there isn’t a vaccine available specifically for cats, some veterinarians may recommend vaccinating them against certain respiratory infections that can cause similar symptoms.
Remember that vaccination plays a vital role in safeguarding your pets from various illnesses. Work closely with your veterinarian to determine which vaccines are necessary for your pets based on their age, health status, and lifestyle.
