Kennel Cough (Bordetellosis, Infectious Tracheobronchitis)

This is an infectious disease of the respiratory system in dogs, and to lesser extent in cats. The disease is caused by a bacterium called Bordetella Bronchoseptica. Dogs and cats are infected when inhaling air particles coughed out by an infected animal living in close proximity (kennels, multi-pet households, shows, etc.). The microbe induces a severe cough that can persist for one or two weeks.

In young or debilitated animals the disease may progress to pneumonia. Young and strong dogs recover without need of treatment. Vaccination is recommended when dogs are exposed to high concentration of dogs, where risk of contagion is high.