Can Our Furry Friends Get the Common Cold
Dec 19,2024 | puaintapets
If you’ve ever seen your dog with a runny nose, sneezing, or a cough, you might wonder, "Can dogs get the common cold?" While dogs can experience respiratory infections, their symptoms differ from those of humans. Unlike people, dogs don’t catch the common cold caused by the same viruses, but they can suffer from conditions that mimic cold-like symptoms. In this article, we'll explore whether dogs can get the common cold, what respiratory illnesses they can develop, and how to protect and care for your dog when they are sick.
Can Dogs Get the Common Cold?
No, dogs cannot catch the common cold in the same way humans do. The common cold in humans is primarily caused by the rhinovirus, which is specific to humans and does not affect dogs. However, dogs can suffer from other respiratory illnesses that may appear similar to a cold. These include canine cough, kennel cough, and other viral or bacterial infections that affect a dog’s respiratory system.
Related: Kennel Cough in Dogs-Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
Common Cold-Like Symptoms in Dogs
Although dogs don't catch the human cold, they can exhibit similar symptoms. Common signs that your dog may have a respiratory infection or illness include:
I. Causes
- Viral infection
Canine distemper virus: This is a serious viral disease and early symptoms may resemble a cold, such as coughing, runny nose and fever. However, canine distemper will show more serious symptoms as the disease progresses, such as neurological symptoms and gastrointestinal symptoms.
Canine Parainfluenza Virus: Infection causes respiratory symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, and runny nose in dogs, which are similar to symptoms of the common cold in humans.
- Bacterial infections
An example of this is Bordetella infection, a bacterium that can colonise your dog's respiratory tract and cause an inflammatory response, leading to symptoms such as coughing and a runny nose, similar to those seen in humans with a bacterial infection during a cold.
- Environmental factors
When there is a sudden change in ambient temperature, such as going from warm indoors to cold outdoors suddenly, or being in a cold or wet environment for a long time, your dog's immunity may drop, making him susceptible to respiratory illnesses and displaying cold-like symptoms.
II. Symptoms
Coughing: It may be a dry or wet cough, and the frequency will vary.
Sneezing: This is a reaction of the dog to clear the nasal cavity of foreign objects or irritants.
Runny nose: this may be clear or purulent, the colour and texture depends on the type and severity of the infection.
- Systemic Symptoms
Fever: A dog's normal temperature is between 38 - 39°C. If the temperature is elevated, the dog may be ill.
Loss of energy: A sick dog will be more lethargic and inactive than usual and lack interest in things around him.
Loss of appetite: may not be interested in food and eat less.
If you notice that your dog is showing flu-like symptoms, it is advisable to take him to the vet in time for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.
How to Treat Cold-Like Symptoms in Dogs?
If your dog shows symptoms of a cold or respiratory illness, it’s essential to monitor their health closely and take the necessary steps to help them feel better:
1. Visit the Vet
If your dog has cold-like symptoms such as coughing, nasal discharge, or lethargy, it's best to visit a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis. The vet will determine whether the symptoms are caused by a viral or bacterial infection and recommend the appropriate treatment.
2. Keep Your Dog Warm and Comfortable
Make sure your dog is comfortable and warm while they are sick. Provide them with a cozy, quiet place to rest and make sure they stay hydrated. Use blankets to keep them warm, especially if they’re showing signs of a fever.
3. Encourage Hydration
Keep fresh water available at all times to prevent dehydration, especially if your dog has a fever. Offering them bland, easy-to-digest food (like boiled chicken and rice) may encourage them to eat if they’re not interested in their usual food.
4. Monitor for Serious Symptoms
If your dog’s symptoms worsen, or if they develop difficulty breathing, excessive coughing, or a lack of appetite, seek immediate veterinary attention. Severe respiratory infections may require medication, including antibiotics or antiviral drugs, to prevent complications.
How to Prevent Respiratory Illnesses in Dogs?
While you can't stop your dog from getting a cold (as they don’t actually get the common cold), you can take steps to minimize the risk of respiratory infections:
1. Keep Your Dog's Environment Clean
Ensuring your dog’s living environment is clean and free of bacteria can help reduce the likelihood of respiratory infections. Regularly disinfect your dog’s bedding, toys, and feeding areas.
2. Limit Exposure to Sick Dogs
If you know that other dogs in your area or social circle are sick, it’s best to limit your dog’s exposure to them. This is especially important for dogs that are at higher risk, such as puppies, elderly dogs, or those with compromised immune systems.
3. Vaccinations
Make sure your dog is up-to-date on vaccinations that can prevent certain respiratory infections, including Bordetella bronchiseptica, canine parainfluenza virus, and canine influenza. Talk to your veterinarian about which vaccines are appropriate for your dog’s lifestyle.
4. Practice Good Hygiene
If you take your dog to public places like parks, dog shows, or boarding facilities, make sure to wash your hands after touching other dogs and avoid letting your dog come into contact with dogs that show symptoms of illness.
FAQs
Can humans give dogs the common cold?
Conclusion
While dogs can’t get the common cold as humans do, they can suffer from other respiratory illnesses that share similar symptoms. Conditions like kennel cough, canine influenza, and respiratory infections can cause coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, and fever in dogs. If your dog shows any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult your veterinarian to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment. Taking preventive measures, such as vaccinations and hygiene practices, can help reduce the risk of respiratory infections in dogs.
Comment
