Do Dogs Cough From Allergies

Treatment For Food Allergies

The treatment for food allergies in dogs is to feed a hypoallergenic diet for 8-12 weeks. This is the only way to determine if your dog has a food allergy.

Hypoallergenic diets either have limited ingredients with an uncommon protein source or are processed in a special way to be less likely to cause allergic reactions. The concept is that a dog cannot be allergic to a food that it has not been exposed to before.

Consult your veterinarian to choose the proper diet. Over-the-counter foods are not recommended for a proper food trial. Treats, flavored medications, and human foods may also have to be eliminated during this trial period.

Other allergy treatment for dogs are aimed at reducing the symptoms while waiting to see if the diet change is helpful. Cytopoint, Apoquel, or steroids may be used to help control itching while waiting to see if a hypoallergenic food trial results in improvement of your dogs allergy symptoms.

Can Dog Coughing Cause Tracheal Collapse

Imagine something between a duck quacking and a cat hissing, and you’ll be able to tell what this type of dog coughing sounds like.

The cough is caused by your dog’s trachea collapsing, so it’s not contagious.

It is caused by long-term respiratory illness or a genetic predisposition.

It is most commonly seen in small breeds.

Specific breeds seem to be more prone to developing this condition.

There is not yet enough research to say categorically what specifically causes tracheal collapse, according to veterinarians.

The breeds at most risk are:

Essentially a doggy version of asthma, you can manage this condition with medication.

There is no cure for tracheal collapse.

However, with correct treatment, a dog suffering from this condition wont suffer from a diminished quality of life.

In the majority of cases, tracheal collapse is due to a genetic abnormality.

Besides doing your research and trying to buy or adopt a dog with a full medical history of its immediate family, you can do little.

If your dog has just started suffering from respiratory illness, with proactive treatment and management, you are likely to be able to stop this before it happens.

Medical intervention is a must for this condition, but there are some positive changes that you can make to improve your dogs condition drastically. They include:

Weight Loss

If your dog is holding onto a bit of extra padding, losing this will make breathing easier.

Collar Free

Calcium

What Medications Can Cause An Allergy Cough

Ironically, some medications used to treat allergies can also cause cough.

Antihistamines are a class of drugs commonly prescribed to treat allergy symptoms. They work by preventing histamine from attaching to cells and triggering inflammation.

Second-generation antihistamines like Claritin and Zyrtec are able to do this without the drowsiness associated with earlier-generation drugs. However, one of the common side effects of these popular over-the-counter drugs is a cough.

This is because antihistamines have a drying effect that can leave the throat feeling scratchy. Even so, the cough is generally mild and will clear once you stop treatment.

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Respiratory Allergies In Cats

Cats have a much more sensitive, albeit fragile, respiratory system than dogs. Therefore, cats are more likely to have a respiratory response to allergens. Dr. Nash says, Typically cats are at greatest risk for respiratory symptoms related to allergies as they have a significantly higher incidence of asthma than dogs. Cats with asthma should always be monitored much more closely for signs of distress . The following steps can help prevent an asthma flare-up:

Do not allow cigarette smoke in the cats environment. Use dustless cat litter. Consider non-topical insecticides. No sprays, either. Regularly replace air filters at home

Proper ventilation and circulation in your cats environment is critical for proper respiratory functioning. At Holiday Barn Pet Resorts, we have addressed that issue in our cat suites by providing a unique air system that helps prevent stale air and the possible accompanying respiratory issues and disease.

Canine And Feline Influenza

Several strains of the flu can sicken your cat or dog. The first canine influenza strain emerged in 2004, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association. Because the illness if fairly recent, many dogs haven’t yet been exposed to it and haven’t developed an immunity. The Association notes that nearly every dog exposed to canine influenza will develop the viral illness. Canine influenza causes a moist cough, sneezing, fever, loss of appetite, nasal and eye discharge and lethargy. Some dogs will develop the more severe form, which causes a high fever and pneumonia.

The illness usually lasts about 10 days to one month. Limiting your pet’s activities during the recovery period can be helpful. Your dog’s veterinarian may recommend intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration and anti-inflammatory medications to reduce fever and aches and pains. If your pet develops a secondary bacterial infection, antibiotics will be prescribed. Canine influenza vaccines are available, but may not be effective against all strains of the influenza virus.

Cats experience many of the symptoms that dogs do when they catch the flu, such as coughing, fever, lethargy and runny nose. Treatment of feline influenza is the same as for dogs. Your cat may need IV fluids if he or she becomes dehydrated and antibiotics to treat secondary bacterial infections. Visit the veterinarian immediately if your cat or dog has the flu and develops a high fever or difficulty breathing.

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Can Allergies Cause My Dog To Cough And Gag

I have been brought up with a German shepherd, and even in my adulthood, I would never miss out on the benefits that come with the security and company that dogs provide. Can allergies cause dog coughing? In my experience with dogs, I observed that they do cough and gag, periodically. I realized that allergies can cause the dog to cough and gag.

In this article, I share with you my experiences with dogs on coughing and gagging, and how allergies could be a big factor in this.

What Are Some Signs That My Dog Coughing Is From Allergies

If your dog has been coughing for more than a few days, or if the cough is accompanied by other symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, or watery eyes, it’s likely that he is suffering from allergies.

Allergies are a common cause of chronic cough in dogs and can be caused by anything from dust and pollen to food and environmental irritants. If your dog is allergic to something in his environment, the best course of action is to try to identify the source of the allergens and remove it from his environment.

This may require some trial and error, but it’s important to do what you can to help your dog feel comfortable. In some cases, your vet may also recommend allergy shots or other medications to help control your dog’s allergies.

If you think your dog may be suffering from allergies, it’s important to have him seen by a vet so that he can get the proper diagnosis and treatment.

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Fifth And Fido Coughly Homeopathic Medicine For Kennel Cough For Cats & Dogs

Inage courtesy Fifth and Fido

Fifth and Fido’s Coughly is a homeopathic medicine that has been specifically designed to relieve the symptoms of kennel cough in cats and dogs.

The main ingredients in the Coughly supplement are bryonia, coccus cacti, and lobaria pulmonaria. These ingredients have been chosen for their traditional use in relieving the symptoms of kennel cough.

Bryonia is known for its ability to relieve dry, hacking coughs. Coccus cacti is traditionally used to relieve congestion and ease breathing. Lobaria pulmonaria is known for its ability to soothe the throat and reduce inflammation.

They have also included ingredients such as honey, propolis, and magnesium sulfate to further support your pet’s respiratory health.

Honey is known for its ability to soothe the throat and reduce inflammation. Propolis is an antimicrobial agent that helps to keep the respiratory tract clear of infection. Magnesium sulfate is known for its ability to relax the muscles and ease coughing.

Coughly supplement is safe for cats and dogs of all ages and can be given to them on a daily basis as needed.

Cat Allergy Management And Treatment

Avoidance is the best way to manage a cat allergy. If you have a cat and are allergic to cats, consider removing the cat from the home.

If you have a cat but dont want to find it a new home, or if your family wants a cat even though someone in the household is allergic, here are some strategies that may help keep symptoms at bay:

• Keep the cat out of your bedroom and restrict it to only a few rooms. Be advised that keeping the cat in only one room will not limit the allergens to that room.
• Dont pet, hug or kiss the cat if you do, wash your hands with soap and water.
• High-efficiency particulate air cleaners run continuously in a bedroom or living room can reduce allergen levels over time.
• Regular use of a high-efficiency vacuum cleaner or a central vacuum can reduce allergen levels.
• Giving your cat a bath at least once a week can reduce airborne cat allergen.

Treatments for cat allergy vary, depending on the symptoms.

Your allergist can help determine what treatment would be best to treat your cat allergy. Nasal symptoms often are treated with steroid nasal sprays, oral antihistamines or other oral medications. Eye symptoms are often treated with antihistamine eyedrops. Respiratory or asthma symptoms can be treated with inhaled corticosteroids or bronchodilators to either prevent or relieve respiratory symptoms.

Allergy shots are an effective treatment of allergies by building tolerance over time through gradually injecting increasing doses of an allergen.

Recommended Reading: Can Seasonal Allergies Cause Ringing In The Ears

Coughing Dog Dont Fret Call Your Vet

A dogs cough is common and is not always a serious risk. Keeping a dogs immunity in check is key when it comes to keeping their overall health in check.

No one wants their dog to be sick, so supporting your dogs immune system is one way to prevent illness. Follow the treatment recommended by your veterinarian and give your dog extra tender loving care .

Preventing illness and having a strong wellness routine is your dogs best option in living a happy, healthy life.

Visit Finn today and be the hero your dog deserves. Explore the natural supplement options available to your dog. Boost their immune system with multivitamin supplements that may become your best friends favorite treat.

Other Uncommon Causes Of Dog Coughing

The onset of coughing can be brought on by numerous infections, diseases, and actions, but here are a few less common causes for dog coughing:

• Fungal infections – acquired through dirt or from breathing air
• Distemper – a virus that is transferred through the air and can be prevented with a vaccine
• Heartworm – watch out for those pesky mosquitoes carrying this disease

Recommended Reading: How To Cure Allergies Naturally

Supplements For Dogs With Cough

There are a few reasons why your dog may be coughing. It could be due to kennel cough, which is a highly contagious respiratory infection. Or, it could be an allergic reaction to something in the environment, such as pollen or mold.

If your dog has been around other dogs who are coughing, it’s important to have him seen by a vet as soon as possible. If you think your dog may be having an allergic reaction, try to identify the source of the allergens and remove it from his environment. This may require some trial and error, but it’s important to do what you can to help your dog feel better.

Coughing is a symptom of many different conditions, so it’s important to have your dog seen by a vet to determine the cause. With proper treatment, most dogs will recover quickly and be back to their normal selves in no time.

Easing Your Dogs Cough

The occasional cough is no cause for alarm. But if your dog has a persistent, hacking cough with additional symptoms, youll want to call your vet. Before your veterinarian examines your dogs body, they might ask you questions, like:

• What does the cough sound like?
• How long has it been going on?
• Are they experiencing any other symptoms?
• Is your dog allergic to anything?
• Is your dog up to date on the bordetella vaccine? Heartworm medication?

If the cough is severe, your vet might recommend cough suppressants. If your dog has kennel cough, a sore throat, tonsillitis, or pneumonia, your vet will likely prescribe antibiotics. For a viral infection, like chronic bronchitis or canine influenza, your vet might advise you to make your dog comfortable and wait it out.

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Diagnosing A Coughing Dog

Your vet will perform a physical and may ask some of these common questions:

• How long have the symptoms been present?
• Is the cough wet or dry?
• Have you noticed any other symptoms besides the cough?
• Has your dog been around other dogs who have a cough?
• Is your dog more lethargic than usual?

Further evaluation may include some combination of the following diagnostic tests depending on the specific situation:

• An examination of fluid samples taken from the airways
• Echocardiography
• Measurement of blood pressure
• An electrocardiogram

Before visiting your vet, take note of any other signs or symptoms your dog has shown in addition to the cough. If possible, try to take a video of your dog coughing at home to show the vet. Your vet will want to know as much as possible in order to properly diagnose and treat your pet.

Causes Of An Allergy Cough

An allergy is essentially the immune system’s inappropriate response to a substance that is otherwise harmless.

When exposed to an allergen, the immune system will produce a substance called immunoglobulin E that sets off a chain reaction, causing immune cells known as mast cells and basophils to break open and release histamine into the bloodstream.

Histamine is the main cause of allergy symptoms. It causes tiny blood vessels to widen and leak fluid into surrounding tissues. When this occurs in the nose and sinuses, it can lead to nasal congestion and a runny nose.

The cough itself is the result of a postnasal drip. This is when mucus drains from your nose into the back of your throat, causing an itch or tickle that leads to coughing.

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How To Support Your Dogs Recovery

While your dog recovers, feel free to baby them! Create a healing environment at home to give your pet the best possible chance for improvement.

• Provide excellent nutrition from high quality, all-natural dog food.
• Provide a clean, warm, sanitary environment free of irritants, like cigarette smoke.
• Make sure your dog has a quiet place to rest.
• Avoid all known allergens in the environment and food.
• Help your dog lose weight if they are obese.
• A natural daily supplement may help boost their immune system.
• Natural remedies, like manuka honey and coconut oil, may help ease symptoms.

Dog Coughing With A Sore Throat

This is a raspy, long wheezing type of cough. It is not contagious. Your dog can develop a sore throat from having something scratch his throat or from barking excessively.

This condition varies on a case-by-case basis, but it shouldn’t last for more than a week.

Dogs that bark non-stop when left alone or play too rough with their toys are the most likely to contract this condition.

Only allowing your dog to have access to safe toys and removing sticks that he could find in the yard is a must to prevent this type of dog coughing.

This is especially important if your dog has hurt his throat in the past.

For a barker, patient and consistent training can stop almost any dog from barking when left alone.

Often the underlying cause of the excessive barking is nerves, so overcoming this would be your cure to doggy sore throats.

Vitamins can help boost the immune system and speed up the healing process of this type of coughing.

A Vitamin C supplement can be especially beneficial. Switching to wet food if your dog is ordinarily fed dry food can also alleviate some discomfort, but be wary of switching to a new food quickly.

Some veterinarians and pet stores will stock pet cough syrup. Most of these will require a prescription, but you can also find many recipes to make your own at home.

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Pets That Can Trigger An Allergy

Your immune system is always on the lookout for foreign bodies that could make you sick. When it finds them, it makes proteins called antibodies to protect you. But sometimes, your immune system makes a mistake. It makes antibodies to fight off something that’s not harmful — like your pet.

The most common pet allergies include:

• Dogs and cats: Your pet doesn’t set off an allergic reaction — it’s what’s trapped in their hair or fur. Saliva, sweat, pee, and dander can all trigger allergies. Pet fur also traps mold, pollen, and other outdoor allergens that make you sneeze and your eyes water.
• Small rodents and rabbits: Despite their small size, the hair, dander, and saliva on the fur of these animals can set off an allergic reaction. And the urine of rodents like gerbils, mice, and hamsters also has chemicals some people are allergic to. These get into the air as your pet moves around its cage or bedding.
• Birds: Mites that live in bird feathers are a common allergen. The fine dust in bird droppings can trigger a reaction, too.
• Horses:It’s rare, but in some people, the allergen in horse dander can cause a life-threatening reaction. Children are most at risk.