Ever noticed your dog start coughing right after a playdate, or your cat sneezing like crazy as soon as the monsoon hits? It’s easy to brush it off (“Maybe it’s just a change in weather!”), But here’s the truth: those little coughs and sneezes can be the early signs of something bigger. Respiratory infections that a lot of us pet parents miss.

I can’t tell you how many times, as a vet, I’ve seen dogs pick up “kennel cough” at a boarding center or cats catch nasty infections in shelters; sometimes, all it takes is one sick animal for the germs to spread. If we ignore these early warning signals, things can go from sniffles to something really serious, like pneumonia, pretty quickly, especially if your pet starts breathing weirdly or you notice pale gums.

What always surprises me is how many loving pet parents wave these symptoms away as “just a cold” or simple allergies. But let’s be honest. If your dog is hacking, your cat is sneezing nonstop, or they’ve both just turned into little couch potatoes, it’s time to investigate.

That’s where Supertails comes in. We are your friendly neighborhood pet experts. We’re here to help you spot those signals early and give you all the advice and care your furry companion needs. In this easy guide, I’ll share what to look for, how to handle it, and how you can keep these common (but potentially troublesome) infections from crashing your home.

Ready to become the pet parent who always stays one step ahead? Let’s get started!

A respiratory infection in pets is when germs (like viruses or bacteria) cause problems in your dog or cat’s nose, throat, or lungs, making them cough, sneeze, or feel unwell, kind of like when we humans catch a bad cold.

It's Diwali night, and I'm comforting a terrified Beagle while his owner describes the sudden coughing fits that started after yesterday's firecracker celebrations. Respiratory infections in pets are more complex than most people realize.

Indian pets face unique respiratory challenges. During Diwali and Holi, chemical-laden colors and fireworks cause skin allergies , eye infections , and respiratory tract infections . The monsoon's dampness increases susceptibility to infections like kennel cough and pneumonia.

Upper respiratory infections affect the nose, sinuses, and throat, whereas lower respiratory infections impact the lungs and airways. The former typically presents as sneezing and nasal discharge, while the latter causes deeper coughing and breathing difficulties.

Last week, my neighbor rushed in with her Labrador who'd been coughing for three days. "I thought it was just something stuck in his throat," she admitted. Spotting respiratory infections early can mean the difference between a quick recovery and a serious illness.

Watch for a dry, hacking cough that worsens with activity. Sneezing might seem harmless, yet persistent episodes suggest irritation of the nasal cavity. The discharge itself tells a story—clear and watery in early infections, becoming thick and yellowish-green as bacteria join the party. If your pet has unilateral discharge (from one nostril only), this often points to foreign bodies or fungal infections.

Breathing should be effortless. Notice any short, choppy breathing with increased rate and effort? This could indicate pulmonary edema. Rapid, shallow breathing alongside fever might suggest pleuritis. Most concerning is when your pet struggles to breathe or wheezes when inhaling.

When your pet loses interest in their favorite treats, take note. Upper respiratory infections often cause loss of appetite because congestion blocks their sense of smell. Additionally, lethargy and decreased interest in usual activities frequently accompany respiratory issues.

Clear eye discharge that progresses to a yellowish, pus-like appearance often accompanies respiratory tract infections. Facial swelling, particularly around the eyes or muzzle, can signal allergic reactions but might also indicate respiratory complications. If this swelling progresses rapidly, it requires immediate veterinary attention.

If you spot these signs, don't wait — Book an  At‑Home Vet Visit  for a thorough check-up and personalized advice.

Respiratory infections in dogs and cats stem from multiple sources. Dogs in polluted cities suffer from lung inflammation at higher rates than those in rural areas. Unacceptable PM2.5 levels (>35 μg/m³) are significantly linked to respiratory disease in cats.

Viral pathogens are common primary causes, with parainfluenza being frequent in types of respiratory infections. Canine distemper affects multiple systems beyond respiratory, including gastrointestinal and nervous systems.

Bordetella bronchiseptica is prevalent in shelters, causing kennel cough that can progress to life-threatening pneumonia in puppies. Streptococcus zooepidemicus causes rapid progression from cough to respiratory distress and even death within hours.

Fungal infections like Aspergillosis typically enter through respiratory passages. These infections often originate from soil, feces, or bird droppings.

Environmental conditions significantly impact infection rates. Poor sanitation and high animal density lead to 78% positive nasal samples versus just 9% in facilities with better conditions. Consequently, proper shelter management remains crucial for prevention of respiratory infections.

Think of one sneezing dog at the park, and suddenly every pet in your neighborhood seems to be coughing. That's how quickly respiratory infections can spread through our furry communities.

These infections primarily travel through three routes. First, via direct contact between pets, nose-to-nose greetings at dog parks or cuddle sessions between cats. Second, through airborne transmission—those innocent-looking sneeze droplets actually carry pathogens up to several feet. Third, through contaminated objects or "fomites"—shared water bowls, toys, bedding, and even our hands can harbor these microscopic troublemakers.

Respiratory infections in dogs like the infamous "kennel cough" spread rapidly in places where multiple dogs gather. The name isn't coincidental—these infections flourish wherever dogs are housed together. Likewise, respiratory tract infections spread easily in catteries and shelters.

The longer your pet stays in crowded environments, the greater their risk. Moreover, stressed animals are more susceptible, as stress compromises immune function. Furthermore, recovered pets may appear healthy yet still carry pathogens, potentially infecting others when stressed.

This explains why respiratory infections in cats and dogs often surge after festivals or boarding stays. Unfortunately, even brief visits to pet stores, hospitals, or rest stops can expose your companion to these highly contagious pathogens.

Just yesterday at my clinic, I treated a Pomeranian who couldn't stop sneezing after a weekend at a boarding facility. Respiratory infections vary widely across species and environments.

Upper respiratory infection in cats

Feline upper respiratory infection in cats primarily stems from two viruses: feline herpes (rhinotracheitis) and calicivirus, responsible for approximately 90% of cases. Infected cats typically develop sneezing, nasal discharge, and conjunctivitis. Notably, with herpes virus, all cats become lifelong carriers.

Upper respiratory infection in dogs

Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex (CIRDC), nicknamed "kennel cough," represents the most common form of respiratory infections in dogs. This condition typically causes a distinctive "goose honk" cough that worsens with exercise.

Fungal and bacterial infections

Fungal respiratory tract infections often originate from soil rather than direct transmission between pets. Cryptococcus neoformans thrives in pigeon droppings, hence commonly affecting urban pets. Bacterial infections frequently occur as secondary complications.

Viral infections like canine influenza

Canine influenza comes in two strains: H3N8 (originated from horses) and H3N2 (from birds). Almost all exposed dogs become infected regardless of breed or age.

Parasitic infections affecting the lungs

Lungworms like Oslerus osleri primarily affect dogs through saliva transmission, often from mother to puppies. Symptoms range from moderate coughing to severe respiratory distress.

The mystery of what's causing your pet's respiratory symptoms requires detective work—and as a vet, I've developed a systematic approach to solving these cases.

Physical exams and symptom history

Initially, we assess your pet's breathing pattern and listen to both right and left lung fields. Upper airway obstruction typically presents with inspiratory difficulty, whereas lower airway disease shows expiratory distress. Specifically, I test nasal patency using my stethoscope bell to listen for airflow through each nostril.

X-rays and imaging tests

Thoracic radiographs remain our primary imaging tool for evaluating respiratory infections. Although functional changes may not always parallel visible structural changes, three-view chest radiographs (right and left laterals plus VD view) provide optimal assessment of lung diseases.

Swabs and lab cultures

For respiratory tract infections, PCR testing on nasal and pharyngeal swabs offers the most sensitive detection of pathogens. Furthermore, bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) provides crucial samples for cytology and bacterial cultures from lower airways.

Blood tests and advanced diagnostics

Arterial blood gas analysis undoubtedly delivers the only functional assessment of overall lung function available in practice. Above all, bronchoscopy remains the gold standard for diagnosing lower respiratory tract diseases, allowing visual assessment and selective sampling.

Schedule an  Online Vet Consultation  for immediate expert guidance from the comfort of home.

My phone rang at 2 AM with a panicked client whose Persian cat was struggling to breathe. Managing respiratory infections requires prompt action and a multi-faceted approach.

For most respiratory infections , treatment depends on what’s causing the trouble—bacteria, viruses, or something else.

• Antibiotics for respiratory infections list: Antibiotics aren't always necessary—most infections are viral. Nevertheless, doxycycline (5-10 mg/kg twice daily) stands as the first-line treatment when bacterial infection is confirmed. Amoxicillin/clavulanic acid serves as a reliable alternative. Remember, antibiotics should only be prescribed for pets showing fever, lethargy, or inappetence alongside discharge.

• Antivirals: There are fewer options here, and they’re rarely needed for mild viral cases, but in special situations (especially for cats), antivirals like famciclovir may be prescribed.

• Nebulisation & Inhalers: Some severe cases may require nebulisation with saline or specific medications to help open up the airways, especially in cats with stubborn symptoms.

• Eye/Ear Drops : Many cats and some dogs need supportive drops or ointments for associated eye or nose discharge.

REMEMBER: Only your veterinarian can decide which medications, doses, and treatment length are right for your pet. Never reach for your own medicine cabinet—what works for us can be dangerous for them.

Prevention is truly better than cure, especially in India where our dogs and cats are often exposed to street animals or crowded facilities. Here’s what you need to know about vaccination and immune support:

• Dogs: Make sure your pup gets their modified-live virus vaccines—covering distemper, parainfluenza, and CAV-2 (canine adenovirus type 2). Start at 6–8 weeks of age, then repeat every 3–4 weeks for at least two more doses. Boosters are needed annually.

• Cats: Get them the core feline vaccines (against herpesvirus and calicivirus) starting at 8–9 weeks, with boosters as advised by your vet.

• Double down on immunity: Good food, regular deworming, and stress-free routines all help your pet’s body bounce back faster if they do get sick.

Pet parents, here’s an easy win: keep your living space as “trigger-free” as possible.

• Make your home smoke-free—both cigarette smoke and incense/firecracker pollution can worsen breathing issues. Avoid air fresheners, strong floor cleaners, and perfume sprays around your pets.

• Wash bedding and bowls regularly so dust, pollen, and invisible germs don’t build up.

• Use air purifiers during high-pollution seasons, if possible, and let in fresh air during milder days.

If you have more than one fur baby, this part’s non-negotiable. As soon as you notice a cough or sneeze in one pet, isolate them from the rest. Give them their own bowl, bed, and toys. Wash your hands after handling them and change your outfit before cuddling your other pets.

• Disinfect shared surfaces and toys with pet-safe cleaners.

• Don’t let sick pets share water or food bowls until your vet gives the all-clear.

• If you must handle multiple pets, always start with the healthy ones and finish with the sick pet.

Let’s be honest: when our pets are coughing, sneezing, and looking plain miserable, we’d do anything to make them feel better. The good news? You can do a lot from home, especially alongside your vet’s advice.

Steam therapy is a total game-changer—honestly! Just run a hot shower, close the bathroom door, and sit with your pet (not too close to the steam, of course) for 10-15 minutes. The warm, moist air helps loosen mucus and makes breathing easier, especially for dogs and cats feeling stuffy.

Proper hydration is your secret weapon. If your pet’s appetite is down, offer them lukewarm bone broth (no onion, garlic, or added salt!) or mix a little water into their wet food. This keeps their throat soothed and helps shift stubborn congestion.

Sometimes, that stubborn dry cough just won’t quit. In those cases, your vet may recommend cough suppressants—like hydrocodone (0.22 mg/kg) or butorphanol (0.5 mg/kg). Never use human medicines on your own—these doses and drugs are carefully chosen by your vet, based on your pet’s health conditions.

Simple, nurturing steps—warm bedding, quiet rest spots, and gentle affection—go a long way. And during the monsoon or winter, a cozy corner can help pets recover faster.

Why all this effort? Because once a respiratory bug enters a home—especially in India’s joint families and smaller apartments—it jumps from one nose to another in no time!

Schedule routine check-ups. Provide balanced nutrition rich in immune-supporting nutrients. Unless necessary, avoid crowded places during outbreak seasons.

Watching Sheru, the street dog I adopted last monsoon, finally play without coughing fits reminds me why proper respiratory care matters so much. After treating thousands of pets with respiratory infections, I've learned when situations demand immediate attention.

Rush to an emergency vet if your pet shows blue-tinged gums, extreme lethargy, refuses water for 24+ hours, or struggles to breathe with an open mouth. These aren't just respiratory infection symptoms—they're potential life threats requiring immediate intervention.

Between hospital visits, create a recovery sanctuary at home. Designate a quiet, draft-free space away from other pets. Your bathroom makes an ideal temporary sick room—run a hot shower for 10-15 minutes twice daily, letting your pet breathe the steam (staying nearby for supervision).

For pets with chronic respiratory tract infections, I recommend air purifiers during pollution peaks and festival seasons. Throughout Diwali, keep windows closed and use calming pheromone diffusers to reduce stress that weakens immunity.

Remember that many respiratory infections in cats and dogs can become recurrent without proper management. Monitor recovered pets closely during season changes and stress periods. Most importantly, trust your instincts—you know your pet best, and that slight change in breathing or energy might be the early warning that saves their life.

Respiratory infections might start with subtle signs – a sneeze here, a cough there – but they demand our attention nonetheless. Throughout my years as a veterinarian, I've witnessed how quickly these conditions can escalate when overlooked. Therefore, recognizing those early warning signs becomes your first line of defense against serious illness.

Remember, your furry friend relies entirely on you to notice when something seems off. A persistent cough after a visit to the dog park or increased sneezing during pollution peaks certainly warrant attention.

Additionally, changes in breathing patterns, loss of appetite, or unusual lethargy should prompt a veterinary visit rather than a wait-and-see approach.

Living in India presents unique challenges for our pets. The seasonal extremes, festival pollution, and crowded urban environments undoubtedly increase respiratory infection risks. Still, with proper prevention strategies – from timely vaccinations to creating clean air spaces during Diwali – we can significantly reduce these threats.

Trust your instincts when it comes to your pet's health. After all, you know your companion better than anyone else. That slight change in breathing or energy might be the early warning that saves their life. Although respiratory infections are common, they don't have to be devastating when caught early and treated appropriately.

My own Sheru taught me this lesson firsthand – watching him transform from a coughing, lethargic street dog to a playful, energetic companion once his respiratory infection cleared. Your pet deserves that same chance at full health and happiness. Stay vigilant, act quickly when symptoms appear, and partner with your veterinarian to keep those respiratory infections at bay. Your furry family member will thank you with many more healthy, happy years by your side.

Early detection of respiratory infections can prevent minor symptoms from escalating into life-threatening conditions like pneumonia.

• Watch for persistent coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, and breathing changes - these aren't just "pet colds" • Seek emergency care immediately if your pet shows blue gums, open-mouth breathing, or refuses water for 24+ hours • Indian pets face unique risks from festival pollution, monsoon dampness, and urban air quality requiring extra vigilance • Steam therapy and proper isolation help recovery while preventing spread to other household pets • Vaccinations and avoiding crowded spaces during outbreak seasons significantly reduce infection risks

Environmental factors like Diwali fireworks and monsoon humidity create perfect conditions for respiratory infections to spread rapidly among pets. The key is recognizing that what seems like minor sneezing or coughing can quickly progress to serious illness without proper attention and care.

What are the early warning signs of respiratory infections in pets? 

Early signs include persistent coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, changes in breathing patterns, loss of appetite, and unusual lethargy. If you notice these symptoms, it's important to consult a veterinarian promptly.

How do respiratory infections spread among pets?

Respiratory infections can spread through direct contact between pets, airborne transmission of sneeze droplets, and contact with contaminated objects like shared water bowls or toys. Crowded environments like kennels or shelters increase the risk of transmission.

Are there specific risks for pets in India regarding respiratory infections?

Yes, Indian pets face unique challenges due to seasonal extremes, festival-related pollution (especially during Diwali and Holi), and crowded urban environments. These factors can increase the risk of respiratory infections in pets.

What home care can I provide for a pet with a respiratory infection?

You can create a recovery sanctuary at home by designating a quiet, draft-free space. Steam therapy by running a hot shower for 10-15 minutes twice daily can help. Ensure proper hydration and consider using air purifiers during high pollution periods.

When should I seek emergency veterinary care for my pet's respiratory symptoms? 

Seek immediate emergency care if your pet shows blue-tinged gums, extreme lethargy, refuses water for over 24 hours, or struggles to breathe with an open mouth. These symptoms could indicate a life-threatening condition requiring urgent medical attention.

For emergency issues, visit Supertails+ Clinic for advanced diagnostics and intensive vet attention.