Infectious tracheobronchitis (viral and bacterial mixed infection kennel cough) in Dogs
- Occurrence: common
- Location of disease: Chest, General/Whole body
When to visit the vet?
Non-urgent see a veterinarian within 2–3 days
If the condition worsens / symptoms persist, consult a veterinarian.
Definition
InfectiousInfectious describes the ability of a pathogen to be transmitted from one individual to another and trigger an infection. It also refers to diseases caused by such pathogens. tracheobronchitis, also known as kennel cough, is a contagiousContagious means infectious. Diseases that can easily be transmitted from one animal to another or from animals to humans are referred to as contagious. respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. disease in dogs caused by a combination of viruses and bacteriaBacteria are microscopic, single-celled organisms that exist in almost every environment on Earth. Some types of bacteria are beneficial or even essential to life, while others can cause disease., characterized by a cough and respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. distress.
The most important facts at a glance
Kennel cough is a common respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. disease in dogs that occurs particularly in high-density environments such as animal shelters or boarding kennels. The disease is caused by a combination of viruses and bacteriaBacteria are microscopic, single-celled organisms that exist in almost every environment on Earth. Some types of bacteria are beneficial or even essential to life, while others can cause disease., with Bordetella bronchiseptica and canineCanine refers to anything related to dogs. The term is used to describe characteristics, diseases, or specific aspects that specifically affect dogs. parainfluenzavirus being the main causes. These pathogens are transmitted via droplet infectionDroplet infection refers to the transmission of pathogens through small droplets of liquid that are released into the air when infected people Cough, Sneeze, or talk and are inhaled by other people., making contact with infected dogs risky.
Common symptoms include cough, fever, gagging, and nasalNasal refers to the nose and nasal cavities. In veterinary medicine, this can involve examinations, treatments, or diseases affecting the nose of dogs and cats. discharge. DiagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is usually made through clinical examination and medical historyThe medical history is the systematic collection of a patient's medical history through questioning. It includes information about previous illnesses, treatments, allergies, and lifestyle habits., although in severe cases, laboratory tests may be performed to identify the pathogens. Treatment depends on the severity of the symptoms and can range from rest and a stress-free environment to the administration of antibiotics if a bacterial infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. is suspected.
The prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. is generally good, especially for dogs with a healthy immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body.. Puppies or older animals may experience more severe courses. For preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring., regular vaccinations against the main causes should be given, and sick dogs should be separated from healthy ones. Research focuses on improving vaccines and diagnostic methods, as well as developing new treatment approaches to better control and treat the disease.
Causes
Kennel cough is a multifactorialMultifactorial refers to conditions or diseases that arise from the interplay of several causes or risk factors. In dogs and cats, these can be genetic predispositions, environmental influences, and nutritional factors that together lead to health problems. disease that often occurs in environments with high dog density, such as animal shelters, boarding kennels, or dog shows. The disease is caused by a range of viralViral refers to viruses and their effects on the organism. Viral infections in dogs and cats can range from harmless colds to severe, life-threatening diseases. and bacterial pathogens, with Bordetella bronchiseptica and canineCanine refers to anything related to dogs. The term is used to describe characteristics, diseases, or specific aspects that specifically affect dogs. parainfluenza virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants. being the primaryPrimary refers to the first or original cause of a disease or condition, as opposed to secondary causes or symptoms that develop from it. causes.
Bordetella bronchiseptica is a bacterium closely related to the pathogenA pathogen is a microorganism or virus that can cause disease in its host. Pathogens include bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. that causes whooping cough in humans. It attacks the respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. mucous membranes and weakens the dog’s immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body., making it easier for other pathogens to establish an infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease..
CanineCanine refers to anything related to dogs. The term is used to describe characteristics, diseases, or specific aspects that specifically affect dogs. parainfluenza virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants. also infects the upper respiratory tractThe respiratory tract includes the organs and structures involved in the breathing process, including the nose, pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi, and lungs. and causes damage to the mucous membranes, which also increases susceptibility to bacterial superinfectionA superinfection occurs when an organism already infected with a pathogen contracts an additional infection with another pathogen, often because the immune system is weakened.. Other viruses frequently involved in the development of kennel cough include canineCanine refers to anything related to dogs. The term is used to describe characteristics, diseases, or specific aspects that specifically affect dogs. adenovirus and canineCanine refers to anything related to dogs. The term is used to describe characteristics, diseases, or specific aspects that specifically affect dogs. herpesvirus.
Transmission of the pathogens usually occurs via droplet infectionDroplet infection refers to the transmission of pathogens through small droplets of liquid that are released into the air when infected people Cough, Sneeze, or talk and are inhaled by other people., meaning they are passed from one dog to another through coughing, sneezing, or direct contact with infected saliva or nasalNasal refers to the nose and nasal cavities. In veterinary medicine, this can involve examinations, treatments, or diseases affecting the nose of dogs and cats. secretions.
Symptoms
The most noticeable symptom of kennel cough is a dry, hacking cough, often described as a “honking” sound. This cough can be triggered by excitement, physical exertion, or pressure on the windpipe, for example from a collar.
Affected dogs may also sneeze, have nasalNasal refers to the nose and nasal cavities. In veterinary medicine, this can involve examinations, treatments, or diseases affecting the nose of dogs and cats. discharge, or in severe cases, show respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. distress. Generally, however, the dogs remain active and have a normal appetite. In more severe cases, fever, loss of appetite, and lethargy may occur.
In rare cases, the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. can also spread to the lungs and lead to pneumonia, which is considered a complication of kennel cough.
Diagnosis
The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. of kennel cough is primarily based on the clinical examination and the animal’s medical historyThe medical history is the systematic collection of a patient's medical history through questioning. It includes information about previous illnesses, treatments, allergies, and lifestyle habits.. The veterinarian will ask about the dog’s living conditions, particularly whether it has recently had contact with other dogs or been in an environment with high dog density.
A definitive diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. can be made by detecting the pathogens through respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. swabs and subsequent laboratory tests. These tests can help identify the specific viralViral refers to viruses and their effects on the organism. Viral infections in dogs and cats can range from harmless colds to severe, life-threatening diseases. or bacterial pathogens involved in the infection.
In most cases, however, specific pathogenA pathogen is a microorganism or virus that can cause disease in its host. Pathogens include bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. diagnostics are not necessary, as the clinical symptoms and circumstances are often sufficient to make the diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients..
Therapy
The treatment of kennel cough depends on the severity of the symptoms. In mild cases, the disease can heal without specific treatment, with the dog being offered rest and a stress-free environment.
In more severe cases, antibiotics can be used against Bordetella bronchiseptica, especially if a bacterial superinfectionA superinfection occurs when an organism already infected with a pathogen contracts an additional infection with another pathogen, often because the immune system is weakened. is suspected. Antiviral medications are generally not used, as they are not effective against most viralViral refers to viruses and their effects on the organism. Viral infections in dogs and cats can range from harmless colds to severe, life-threatening diseases. pathogens of kennel cough.
Cough suppressants can be administered to relieve the urge to cough, but their use should be cautious as they are not suitable for all forms of cough. In cases of respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. distress or fever, further symptomatic treatment may be necessary.
Prognosis and follow-up care
The prognosis for dogs with kennel cough is generally good. Most dogs recover completely from the illness within one to three weeks, especially if they are otherwise healthy and have no pre-existing conditions.
In puppies, older dogs, or animals with a weakened immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body., the course of the disease can be more severe, and there is an increased risk of complications such as pneumonia.
Timely and appropriate treatment contributes significantly to the avoidance of complications and significantly improves the chances of recovery.
Prevention
To reduce the risk of infection with kennel cough, dogs should be regularly vaccinated against the main causes. VaccinationVaccination is the process of administering a vaccine to develop immunity against a specific infectious disease. It is one of the most effective methods of prevention of infectious diseases. against Bordetella bronchiseptica and canineCanine refers to anything related to dogs. The term is used to describe characteristics, diseases, or specific aspects that specifically affect dogs. parainfluenza virus is particularly important for dogs that regularly come into contact with other dogs or live in high-density environments.
Special care should be taken when introducing new dogs into groups, and sick animals should be kept separate from healthy dogs to prevent the spread of the disease.
Good hygiene practices and a clean environment can also help minimize the spread of pathogens. This includes regular cleaning and disinfecting of areas where dogs are housed, as well as avoiding overcrowded and poorly ventilated spaces.
Outlook on current research
Research into infectiousInfectious describes the ability of a pathogen to be transmitted from one individual to another and trigger an infection. It also refers to diseases caused by such pathogens. tracheobronchitis, commonly known as kennel cough, is a dynamic field focused on improving the preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring., diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients., and treatment of this widespread respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. disease in dogs. Scientists worldwide are investigating various aspects of this condition to better understand how the disease spreads and how the dogs’ immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body. responds to it.
A significant part of current research focuses on the development and improvement of vaccines. Traditionally, kennel cough vaccines are based on inactivated or attenuated viruses and bacteriaBacteria are microscopic, single-celled organisms that exist in almost every environment on Earth. Some types of bacteria are beneficial or even essential to life, while others can cause disease.. However, new studies are exploring the possibility of using recombinant vaccines that contain specific proteins of the pathogenA pathogen is a microorganism or virus that can cause disease in its host. Pathogens include bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites.. These could triggerA trigger is a stimulus that elicits a specific reaction or state. In veterinary medicine, this can refer to emotional responses, such as fear or aggression, or medical conditions, such as seizures in dogs and cats. a more targeted immune responseAn immune response is the immune system's reaction to foreign substances (antigens), such as microorganisms or proteins. It involves a series of processes aimed at recognizing, fighting, and eliminating these antigens. and potentially offer longer-lasting immunityImmunity is the body's ability to protect itself against infections, diseases, or foreign substances. It can be natural, as with innate immunity, or acquired, as with adaptive immunity, which develops after an infection or vaccination.. Research in this area promises exciting progress that could improve vaccinationVaccination is the process of administering a vaccine to develop immunity against a specific infectious disease. It is one of the most effective methods of prevention of infectious diseases. efficiency and protectionProtection refers to safeguarding against diseases or harm. In veterinary medicine, this can include protecting animals through vaccinations, the use of parasite control products, or providing a safe environment. against different strains of pathogens.
Another important area of research is the investigation of genetic factors that might influence a dog’s susceptibility to kennel cough. By identifying specific genes associated with an increased risk of the disease, researchers hope to develop personalized preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. strategies. These could be particularly helpful for breeders looking to minimize the risk of respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. diseases in their breeding programs.
Additionally, the role of environmental factors is being intensively studied. Factors such as stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being., air quality, and housing conditions can influence a dog’s susceptibility to infections. Researchers are working to develop better management strategies to minimize the risk of the disease spreading in dog populations, especially in animal shelters and kennels.
Diagnostic advances are also an active area of research. The development of faster and more accurate tests that can differentiate between the various pathogens of kennel cough is crucial. These advances could help veterinarians prescribe more targeted treatments and better control the spread of the disease.
The treatment of kennel cough is also being intensively researched. While antibiotics are often used to treat bacterial infections, there is growing interest in antiviral medications and alternative therapies such as plant extracts and probiotic supplements. These could help alleviate symptoms and shorten recovery time while simultaneously reducing the risk of antibiotic resistanceResistance refers to the ability of microorganisms to withstand the effects of antibiotics, antifungals, or other antimicrobial drugs. Resistance can also refer to the body's ability to be insensitive to diseases or toxins..
Research on the role of the respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. microbiome in the development and course of kennel cough could open up new therapeutic approaches. Understanding how the natural microorganisms in the respiratory tractThe respiratory tract includes the organs and structures involved in the breathing process, including the nose, pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi, and lungs. interact with pathogens could help develop new preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. and treatment strategies.
Finally, international collaboration is crucial as the disease has spread to many regions of the world. Researchers from different countries are exchanging data and insights to gain a more comprehensive picture of the disease and develop global solutions. This collaboration could lead to standardized vaccinationVaccination is the process of administering a vaccine to develop immunity against a specific infectious disease. It is one of the most effective methods of prevention of infectious diseases. and treatment guidelines that can be applied worldwide.
Overall, research into infectiousInfectious describes the ability of a pathogen to be transmitted from one individual to another and trigger an infection. It also refers to diseases caused by such pathogens. tracheobronchitis promises significant advances in preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring., diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients., and therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. that could improve the health and well-being of dogs worldwide. The results of this research could help slow the spread of the disease and treat affected animals more quickly and effectively.