Kennel cough, also known as canine infectious respiratory disease complex (CIRDC), is a common and highly contagious respiratory disease in dogs. It is caused by a combination of viruses and bacteria, and can cause severe coughing, sneezing, and gagging in infected dogs. While kennel cough can be a serious condition, it is usually mild and can be treated at home with some simple home remedies. One of the most important home remedies for a dog with kennel cough is providing a proper diet.
What is Kennel Cough?
Kennel cough is an infectious respiratory disease caused by a combination of viruses and bacteria. The most common viruses and bacteria associated with kennel cough are Bordetella bronchiseptica, Canine Parainfluenza virus, and Canine Adenovirus type 2. The disease is spread through contact with infected dogs, or through contact with contaminated items, such as food bowls and toys.
When a dog is infected with kennel cough, he will usually show signs of coughing, sneezing, gagging, and nasal discharge. In some cases, the dog may also develop a fever and loss of appetite. The symptoms usually last for about two weeks, and in most cases, the dog will recover without any complications.
What to Feed a Dog With Kennel Cough?
The best diet for a dog with kennel cough is one that is high in protein, low in fat, and rich in vitamins and minerals. The diet should also include plenty of fluids to help keep the dog hydrated.
Protein: Protein is essential for a dog’s overall health and helps to build and repair damaged tissues. Protein can be found in meats such as chicken, beef, and fish. It is also important to provide your dog with a variety of proteins, as this will help to ensure that the dog gets all of the essential amino acids.
Fats: Fats provide energy for a dog, as well as essential fatty acids that are important for healthy skin and coat. Good sources of fat include fish oil, flaxseed oil, and coconut oil.
Vitamins and Minerals: Vitamins and minerals are essential for a dog’s overall health and should be included in the diet. Vitamins such as vitamin A, C, and E are important for proper immune system functioning. Minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium are important for strong bones and teeth.
Fluids: Fluids are important for keeping a dog hydrated, and can help to prevent dehydration. Water should always be available for the dog to drink, and broth or diluted juice can be offered as an additional source of fluids.
What Foods Should be Avoided?
There are certain foods that should be avoided when feeding a dog with kennel cough. These foods include:
- Fatty foods such as bacon, sausage, and fatty cuts of meat
- Dairy products such as cheese and ice cream
- Chocolate and other sweets
- Grapes and raisins
- Onions and garlic
- Xylitol sweeteners
- Human foods such as bread and pasta
What Supplements Can be Added to the Diet?
There are several supplements that can be added to the diet of a dog with kennel cough. These supplements can help to boost the immune system, reduce inflammation, and provide additional nutrients that may be lacking in the diet. Supplements that can be added to the diet include:
Probiotics: Probiotics can help to boost the immune system, reduce inflammation, and improve digestion. Probiotics are available in powder, tablet, or liquid forms, and can be added to food or given as a treat.
Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids can help to reduce inflammation and boost the immune system. Omega-3 fatty acids can be found in fish oil or flaxseed oil supplements.
Vitamin C: Vitamin C is an antioxidant that can help to reduce inflammation and boost the immune system. Vitamin C can be found in supplement form, or it can be found in foods such as oranges, broccoli, and strawberries.
Glucosamine: Glucosamine is a natural supplement that can help to reduce inflammation and improve joint health. Glucosamine can be found in supplement form, or it can be found in foods such as shellfish, eggs, and dairy products.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is kennel cough?
A. Kennel cough is an infectious respiratory disease caused by a combination of viruses and bacteria. The most common viruses and bacteria associated with kennel cough are Bordetella bronchiseptica, Canine Parainfluenza virus, and Canine Adenovirus type 2.
Q. What should I feed my dog with kennel cough?
A. The best diet for a dog with kennel cough is one that is high in protein, low in fat, and rich in vitamins and minerals. The diet should also include plenty of fluids to help keep the dog hydrated. Good sources of protein include chicken, beef, and fish, as well as a variety of other proteins. Good sources of fat include fish oil, flaxseed oil, and coconut oil. Vitamins and minerals can be found in a variety of foods, and fluids should be available for the dog to drink.
Q. Are there any foods I should avoid feeding my dog with kennel cough?
A. Yes, there are certain foods that should be avoided when feeding a dog with kennel cough. These foods include fatty foods such as bacon, sausage, and fatty cuts of meat; dairy products such as cheese and ice cream; chocolate and other sweets; grapes and raisins; onions and garlic; xylitol sweeteners; and human foods such as bread and pasta.
Q. Are there any supplements I can add to my dog’s diet?
A. Yes, there are several supplements that can be added to the diet of a dog with kennel cough. These supplements can help to boost the immune system, reduce inflammation, and provide additional nutrients that may be lacking in the diet. Supplements that can be added to the diet include probiotics, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin C, and glucosamine.
Q. How long will kennel cough last?
A. The symptoms of kennel cough usually last for about two weeks, and in most cases, the dog will recover without any complications. It is important to provide proper care and nutrition during this time, as this will help to ensure a speedy recovery.