Can My Pet Catch a Cold? 

A common question pet owners have is if their pets can catch a cold. While your pet cannot get a cold from you, it can get a virus with similar symptoms to a cold in humans. Knowing what to do when your pet is sick is vital for preventing potentially significant health issues. Fairway Knolls Veterinary Hospital in Bloomington, IL, can treat common pet illnesses and keep your pet healthy and happy for the future.

Common Sicknesses That Affect Pets

A common virus dogs can catch is kennel cough, or Bordetella, which causes a loud, honking-like cough. This virus is highly contagious and quickly spreads when dogs are in close contact with each other, particularly in kennels. Your veterinarian can recommend a Bordetella vaccine for your dog if you plan to board it.

Dogs can also catch canine influenza, otherwise known as dog flu. Canine influenza is a contagious respiratory disease with symptoms similar to human influenza, such as coughing, a runny nose, and a fever. Your dog may also have eye discharge and be lethargic with little appetite.

Cats are susceptible to multiple respiratory illnesses, including feline herpesvirus, calicivirus, mycoplasma, and Chlamydophila. Cats can also get Bordetella. Your veterinarian may also recommend the Bordetella vaccine for your cat.

Should My Pet See the Veterinarian?

Your pet may be able to recover on its own, depending on its illness, age, and overall health. Some illnesses can resolve in time, while others require veterinary care. You should call your veterinarian if you have concerns about your dog or cat’s illness. Your veterinarian can advise you on caring for your pet at home or offer prompt care if your pet’s sickness is severe.

See Your Veterinarian Near You at Fairway Knolls Veterinary Hospital

Knowing if your pet needs veterinary care for its illness can be challenging, so contact Fairway Knolls Veterinary Hospital in Bloomington, IL, to determine if your pet needs veterinary care to treat its sickness. We can treat common sicknesses in pets, so call us and schedule an appointment today at (309) 663-1414.