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My dog has kennel cough. Is it normal for her to get worse and not eat?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 31 lbs

I got my dog for the shelter Sunday. She had kennel cough. I took her to the vet Tuesday and they put her on antibiotics and cough meds. She was only coughing at that time. Now she isn't eating as much and has drainage out of nose and is coughing mucus up. She is also more lethargic. Is that to be expected?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on October 12th, 2017

Congrats on your new dog, but I'm sorry Willow is sick! Kennel cough doesn't have a cure, the medications are used to lessen the severity of the symptoms, but it sounds like the disease is getting a bit worse. I would rest her tonight, keep her in a well humidified area, and use a harness instead of a collar when you take her out to potty to minimize coughing. You can also try bringing her into the bathroom with you when you shower as the steam may help with her congestion. Try gently warming up really smelly wet food to tempt her to eat. Dogs won't eat if they can't smell their food, so gently warming it may entice her to eat. I would have her seen by a vet again in the morning since her symptoms have become more severe. The vet may prescribe additional medications to help with them. Good luck, I hope this helps!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Published on February 12th, 2017
She is probably suffering from kennel cough, an upper respiratory infection that is very common in kennels. in some cases this type of infection becomes complicated with fever and lung involvement. she will need a course of antibiotics and some cough meds, unfortunately there is not much you can do before getting her to the vet.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Dayna, DVM, CVA
Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist
Published on April 6th, 2018
Is there any chance she could have been exposed to kennel cough in the last 2 weeks? Dog parks, Pet stores, groomer, did you visit a shelter? It sounds like you are describing kennel cough to me. If she seems uncomfortable or having trouble breathing then she should be evaluated immediately. Otherwise I would encourage you to call your veterinarian tomorrow. Best of luck and I hope she improves soon. Thank you for using Pet Coach.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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