Why is kennel cough worse at night in dogs?

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Kennel cough often seems more pronounced at night in dogs due to several factors including positional changes impacting breathing, drier air irritating the airways, and a decrease in environmental distractions that make coughing sounds more noticeable. Why is kennel cough worse at night in dogs? Understanding these factors is crucial for effectively managing your dog’s symptoms and ensuring a more restful night for both of you.

Understanding Kennel Cough

Kennel cough, or infectious tracheobronchitis, is a highly contagious respiratory disease affecting dogs. It’s characterized by inflammation of the trachea and bronchi, leading to a persistent, hacking cough.

It’s often described as a goose-honking cough or a dry, retching sound.
It can be caused by various bacteria and viruses, including Bordetella bronchiseptica, canine adenovirus, and canine parainfluenza virus.
Outbreaks are common in environments where dogs congregate, such as kennels, dog parks, and grooming facilities.

Factors Contributing to Nighttime Worsening

The perception and reality of increased coughing at night are multifaceted. Several contributing elements work together to create this phenomenon. Why is kennel cough worse at night in dogs?

Positional Changes: When dogs lie down, mucus can pool in the back of their throat and airways, triggering the cough reflex. The horizontal position can also put pressure on the lungs, making it harder to breathe and exacerbating the cough.
Dry Air: Indoor heating, particularly during the winter months, can significantly reduce humidity levels. Dry air irritates the already inflamed airways, making them more sensitive and prone to coughing.
Reduced Distractions: During the day, dogs are often active and engaged, which can mask or distract them from their coughing. At night, when everything is quiet, the coughing becomes more noticeable and may seem worse even if the frequency is similar.
Lower Body Temperature: As dogs sleep, their body temperature naturally drops slightly. This can cause constriction in the airways, which, combined with inflammation from kennel cough, can trigger coughing episodes.
Immune System Activity: Some studies suggest that the immune system’s activity can fluctuate throughout the day, potentially affecting the severity of kennel cough symptoms at night.

Management and Relief Strategies

While a veterinarian’s diagnosis and treatment plan are essential, several home care strategies can help alleviate your dog’s nighttime coughing. These strategies aim to reduce airway irritation and promote restful sleep.

Humidifier: Using a humidifier in the dog’s sleeping area can help moisten the air and reduce airway irritation.
Steam Treatment: Running a hot shower and letting your dog sit in the steamy bathroom for 10-15 minutes can help loosen mucus and ease breathing.
Elevated Sleeping Position: Propping your dog up with pillows or using a raised bed can help prevent mucus from pooling and reduce pressure on the lungs.
Honey: A small amount of honey (about ½ to 1 teaspoon for a small dog, up to 2 teaspoons for a large dog) can soothe the throat and help suppress coughing. Consult your vet before using honey, especially in diabetic dogs.
Avoid Irritants: Minimize exposure to smoke, dust, and strong odors, as these can further irritate the airways.

Importance of Veterinary Consultation

It’s crucial to consult with a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. While home remedies can provide temporary relief, they are not a substitute for professional medical care. A vet can determine the underlying cause of the cough and prescribe appropriate medications, such as antibiotics (if a bacterial infection is present) or cough suppressants. They can also rule out other, more serious conditions that may be causing similar symptoms.

Prevention Measures

Preventing kennel cough is always better than treating it. Several preventive measures can help protect your dog.

Vaccination: The Bordetella vaccine is a common preventive measure. It doesn’t eliminate the risk entirely but significantly reduces the severity and duration of the illness.
Avoidance: Limit your dog’s exposure to crowded dog environments, especially if there is an outbreak of kennel cough in your area.
Hygiene: Practice good hygiene by washing your hands after interacting with other dogs and cleaning your dog’s bowls and toys regularly.
Boost Immune System: Ensure your dog has a healthy diet, adequate exercise, and minimal stress to support a strong immune system.

When to Seek Immediate Veterinary Care

While kennel cough is usually mild and self-limiting, certain symptoms warrant immediate veterinary attention.

Difficulty Breathing: If your dog is struggling to breathe, gasping for air, or has blue gums, seek immediate veterinary care.
Lethargy: If your dog is extremely weak, unresponsive, or has a significant decrease in appetite, consult a vet immediately.
Pneumonia Symptoms: Signs of pneumonia, such as rapid breathing, fever, and nasal discharge, require prompt veterinary treatment.
Coughing Up Blood: If your dog is coughing up blood, it’s crucial to seek immediate veterinary care.

Why does my dog cough more when he lies down?

The simple reason why is kennel cough worse at night in dogs and when lying down is gravity. When a dog lies down, mucus tends to pool in the back of the throat, triggering the cough reflex. This positional change makes them cough more as the irritation is more pronounced.

Is kennel cough contagious to humans?

While the Bordetella bronchiseptica bacteria can technically infect humans, it’s extremely rare, particularly in individuals with healthy immune systems. Most kennel cough strains are not transmissible to humans.

How long does kennel cough typically last?

Kennel cough usually lasts for 1-3 weeks. However, some dogs may experience symptoms for longer, especially if they have a weakened immune system or are exposed to secondary infections.

Can I give my dog human cough medicine for kennel cough?

Never give your dog human cough medicine without consulting your veterinarian. Many human cough medications contain ingredients that are toxic to dogs.

What can I expect at the vet’s office when I bring my dog in for a cough?

Your veterinarian will likely perform a physical examination, listen to your dog’s lungs, and may recommend additional tests, such as a chest X-ray or blood work, to rule out other potential causes of the cough.

Is there a natural remedy to cure kennel cough?

While natural remedies like honey and steam treatment can provide relief, they are not a cure for kennel cough. Always consult a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.

What’s the difference between kennel cough and canine influenza?

Kennel cough is generally milder than canine influenza. Canine influenza often presents with more severe symptoms, such as fever, lethargy, and nasal discharge. A vet can distinguish between the two conditions.

My dog has been vaccinated against kennel cough. Why did he still get it?

The Bordetella vaccine protects against the most common cause of kennel cough, but it doesn’t protect against all possible pathogens. Dogs can still contract kennel cough from other viruses or bacteria. Vaccination reduces severity and duration.

How can I disinfect my house to prevent kennel cough from spreading to other dogs?

Use a diluted bleach solution (1 part bleach to 32 parts water) to disinfect surfaces that your dog has come into contact with, such as bowls, toys, and bedding.

Can stress make kennel cough worse?

Yes, stress can weaken the immune system and exacerbate kennel cough symptoms. Provide your dog with a calm and comfortable environment.

What should I do if my dog has kennel cough but is acting completely normal?

Even if your dog is acting normal, it’s still important to consult with a veterinarian to confirm the diagnosis and receive recommendations for management. Early intervention can help prevent complications.

Why does my dog sound like he’s honking like a goose when he coughs?

The characteristic goose-honking cough is caused by inflammation of the trachea. This inflammation leads to a distinct sound as air passes through the narrowed and irritated airway, which is a hallmark sign of kennel cough and explains why is kennel cough worse at night in dogs when the dog has been inactive and mucus has settled.