Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

    rewards header
    Become a member today!
    Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
    Already a member? Sign in
    Petco Pay LogoBecome a credit card member today!

    Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
    when you use Petco Pay!

    APPLY NOW
    Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

My dog coughs and gags. Is it kennel cough? What can I try at home?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | unspayed | 6 months and 24 days old | 50 lbs

My dog has kennel cough I think. She coughs and gags and coughs up clear slime stuff, sometimes it's white likes spit. We have 4 other neighbors dogs around here. They all drink out of the same water bowls too. Do you think this is what she has? What can I try on her?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Dr Stafford, BVetMed, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on July 25th, 2017

It does sound very like kennel cough. Kennel cough is a generic name for various viruses and bacteria. The viral aspect cannot be treated, so if it is mild and Sadie seems bright enough you can monitor her and try giving her honey and lemon to soothe her throat. You could call your vet and ask if there are over the counter cough bottles available in your area that are safe for dogs. If she is very sore it may be necessary to get antinflammatories from the vet to settle ger throat. If she starts to seem sick with it go to the vet in case it has become a bacterial infection in her lungs which will need antibiotics. Dont let her share bowls at the moment as she will ne very contagious.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Sadie certainly could have kennel cough. Kennel cough is a syndrome that is caused by a number of different viruses and bacteria, and causes a loud, sometimes productive cough (meaning small amounts of white foam or clear mucous come up). Dogs with kennel cough usually have a normal appetite and activity level. I would recommend seeing your veterinarian once they open since there are other more serious causes of a cough including pneumonia or parasites like heartworm. If Sadie has a decrease in appetite, is lethargic, or is having trouble breathing I would recommend seeing a veterinarian tonight.

    Vote icon

    0Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My degu lost teeth after an accident. How can I feed him soft foods?
Your degu had an accident, lost teeth, and can't eat hard food. A Petco Vet Tech offers crucial advice on immediate vet care and how to feed your injured degu.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My degu has trouble breathing, coughing, and nose discharge. Help?
Is your degu struggling to breathe, coughing, or have nasal discharge? A trusted vet offers vital guidance on respiratory issues like pneumonia and how to help.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My rat is losing weight and has breathing issues. What should I do?
Dambo's weight loss, rough breathing, and mucus worry you? A Petco veterinarian addresses these concerning symptoms and recommends urgent professional care.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Is my pet's occasional sneezing and eye crust a URI symptom?
Is your pet Barry occasionally sneezing or showing eye crust? A trusted vet offers insights on common respiratory concerns and when to seek professional advice.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My ferret has bloody urine and bladder stones. Is it an emergency?
Ferret has bloody urine, possibly bladder stones? A certified vet advises if waiting until tomorrow for an appointment is safe, especially if he's still urinating.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored