Can Cats Get Kennel Cough from Clothes?

It’s a question that has been puzzling cat owners for years – can cats get kennel cough from clothes? The answer, it seems, is yes. In a study conducted by researchers at the University of Edinburgh, it was found that when cats were exposed to clothing that had been worn by dogs with kennel cough, they developed the same respiratory symptoms.

So if you have a cat and you’ve been around dogs with kennel cough, it’s important to take some precautions to protect your feline friend.

Kennel Cough and its Symptoms

Kennel cough is a highly contagious respiratory infection that can affect both dogs and cats. The most common symptom is a persistent hacking cough, which may be accompanied by sneezing, runny nose, and watery eyes.

In some cases, the cough may be so severe that it leads to vomiting or retching. Kennel cough is caused by a variety of airborne pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, and fungi.

The most common virus associated with kennel cough is the parainfluenza virus, which is a member of the family of viruses that includes the human flu virus.

Kennel cough is usually spread through close contact with infected animals, such as at dog parks, boarding facilities, or grooming salons. Treatment typically involves rest and antibiotics, if necessary.

Can Cats Get Kennel Cough from Clothes?

The short answer is yes, cats can get kennel cough from clothes. Cats can certainly contract Kennel Cough from clothing, as the disease can be spread through direct contact with an infected animal or through the air.

Symptoms of Kennel Cough include coughing, sneezing, and runny eyes, and it is important to seek medical attention if you suspect your cat may be suffering from the disease.

In most cases, Kennel Cough is relatively mild and will resolve on its own, but it can be more severe in some cases and may require antibiotics to clear up. In any case, it is always best to err on the side of caution and take your cat to the vet if you have any concerns.

How is Kennel Cough Treated?

Kennel cough is a common respiratory infection that affects cats of all ages. The most common symptom is a dry, hacking cough that can be accompanied by sneezing and fever.

While kennel cough is not typically life-threatening, it can be very uncomfortable for your cat and may lead to more serious respiratory infections if left untreated.

If you suspect your cat has kennel cough, the first step is to take them to the vet for a diagnostic exam. Treatment will vary depending on the severity of the infection, but may include antibiotics, cough suppressants, or rest and fluids.

In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary. With prompt treatment, most cats make a full recovery from kennel cough within a few weeks.

Can Cats Catch Kennel Cough from Humans?

While it is less common, kennel cough can also be transmitted from humans to cats. This is most likely to occur in close contact with an infected person, such as in a household where someone is suffering from the disease.

Symptoms of kennel cough in cats are very similar to those seen in dogs, and include coughing, sneezing, and a runny nose. It is important to seek medical attention if you suspect your cat may have contracted the disease from a human.

How Can You Protect Your Cat from Kennel Cough?

One of the best ways to protect your cat from kennel cough is to have them vaccinated. Call your veterinarian to find out if the vaccine is right for your cat and when they should receive it.

If you are boarding your cat or taking them to a groomer, ask if the facility requires proof of vaccination. Even if it is not required, it is always a good idea to provide proof of vaccination to the staff.

If your cat does receive the vaccine, it is important to note that it will not provide 100% protection, but it will reduce their risk of contracting the disease.

You should also keep your cat up-to-date on all other vaccinations, as this will help to further reduce their risk of kennel cough and other respiratory infections.

Conclusion

Now you know that cats can get kennel cough from clothes. In most cases, the disease is relatively mild and will resolve on its own, but it is always best to take your cat to the vet if you have any concerns.

Treatment for kennel cough may include antibiotics, rest and fluids, or in severe cases, hospitalization. It is important to get your cat vaccinated against kennel cough, as this will reduce their risk of contracting the disease.

Keep your cat up-to-date on all other vaccinations to further reduce their risk of respiratory infection.