Tosse de Canil: Prevenção, Sintomas e Tratamento
A tosse de canil é uma infecção respiratória altamente contagiosa em cães. Saiba como proteger seu animal e o que fazer se ele adoecer.
Kennel cough (canine infectious tracheobronchitis) is a highly contagious respiratory disease affecting dogs. It's called 'kennel cough' because it spreads rapidly where dogs congregate, but your dog can catch it anywhere. Most cases are mild, but it can progress to pneumonia in vulnerable dogs. RVC provides vaccination and treatment. Call +853 6677 6611.
Key Points
- Kennel cough is caused by multiple viruses and bacteria (Bordetella, parainfluenza, adenovirus)
- Highly contagious — spreads through airborne droplets and contaminated surfaces
- Symptoms: harsh honking cough, gagging, retching, nasal discharge, mild fever
- Most cases resolve in 1-3 weeks with supportive care
- Vaccination reduces severity but doesn't prevent all cases
- Puppies, seniors, and immunocompromised dogs are at risk for pneumonia
How Kennel Cough Spreads
Kennel cough spreads through respiratory droplets when infected dogs cough, bark, or sneeze. It can also spread via contaminated surfaces (bowls, toys, clothing, hands). High-risk locations: boarding kennels, dog parks, grooming salons, training classes, veterinary waiting rooms, and dog shows. The incubation period is 2-14 days, meaning dogs can spread the disease before showing symptoms. Some bacteria (Bordetella) can survive in the environment for weeks.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
The hallmark sign is a harsh, dry, honking cough that sounds like a goose honk. Dogs often gag or retch at the end of a coughing fit, sometimes producing white foam. Other symptoms: nasal discharge, mild fever, lethargy, and reduced appetite. In severe cases: difficulty breathing, high fever, and lethargy (possible pneumonia). Diagnosis is usually based on history and physical exam. If pneumonia is suspected, chest X-rays are needed.
Treatment
Mild cases: supportive care at home — rest, humidifier or steam bath to soothe airways, cough suppressants if needed (prescribed by vet), and isolation from other dogs for 2 weeks. Moderate cases: antibiotics if bacterial infection is suspected (doxycycline, amoxicillin-clavulanate). Severe cases/pneumonia: hospitalization with IV fluids, oxygen therapy, nebulization, and broad-spectrum antibiotics. NEVER use human cough medicine without veterinary guidance — some contain toxic ingredients.
Prevention
Vaccination is the best prevention. The Bordetella vaccine is available as injectable, intranasal (nose drops), or oral. Intranasal provides fastest protection (3-5 days). Annual or semi-annual vaccination is recommended for dogs that board, go to daycare, or attend shows. Keep your dog away from symptomatic dogs. If your dog has kennel cough, keep them isolated from other dogs for 2 weeks after symptoms resolve. Disinfect surfaces with bleach solution (1:32).
When to See a Vet Immediately
- Severe coughing that interferes with eating or sleeping
- Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
- High fever (over 39.5°C)
- Lethargy or unwillingness to move
- Loss of appetite for more than 24 hours
- Coughing up blood or thick yellow/green mucus
How RVC Can Help
RVC provides kennel cough vaccination and treatment. If your dog develops a persistent cough, schedule an appointment at +853 6677 6611. Keep them isolated from other dogs until cleared.
This article is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional veterinary advice. If your pet is showing any symptoms, please contact Royal Veterinary Center immediately at +853 6677 6611.