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Understanding Coughing Diseases in Dogs: The Rise of Mycoplasma canis Infections

For many years, the term “canine cough” was synonymous with a self-limiting illness that typically required little more than rest and supportive care. However, veterinary professionals are increasingly encountering dogs with persistent coughing and signs of more serious illness. These cases often point to a culprit previously underdiagnosed: Mycoplasma canis.

What is Mycoplasma canis?

Mycoplasma canis is a bacterial organism that can colonize the respiratory tract of dogs, leading to significant respiratory illness in some cases. Unlike the typical “kennel cough” caused by agents like Bordetella bronchiseptica and canine parainfluenza virus, infections caused by Mycoplasma canis tend to be more persistent and severe, requiring antibiotic treatment.

Interestingly, while Mycoplasma infections in humans (commonly referred to as “walking pneumonia”) are caused by a different species, the underlying mechanisms of infection are comparable. Mycoplasma bacteria lack a cell wall, making them adaptable and often harder to treat than other bacterial infections.

Recognizing the Symptoms

Dogs affected by Mycoplasma canis may exhibit:

  • Persistent, worsening coughing
  • Lethargy
  • Reduced appetite
  • Fever
  • Signs of respiratory distress in severe cases

These symptoms often extend beyond the typical presentation of canine cough, where dogs remain relatively bright and alert.

Diagnosing Mycoplasma canis

Respiratory swabs and advanced diagnostic tools are now helping veterinarians identify Mycoplasma canis in coughing dogs. This shift in diagnostic capability has illuminated how prevalent and impactful this organism can be in canine respiratory disease.

Treatment and Recovery

Once Mycoplasma canis is identified, an appropriate course of antibiotics can lead to significant improvement. This contrasts with the traditional approach to canine cough, which rarely involved antibiotics unless secondary infections were suspected.

Preventing Respiratory Illness in Dogs

While there is no vaccine specifically for Mycoplasma canis, keeping your dog up to date with vaccinations for kennel cough (covering Bordetella and parainfluenza) can offer some level of protection against respiratory infections. Vaccinated dogs may have milder symptoms if exposed to other pathogens contributing to respiratory illness.

Additionally, isolating dogs that are coughing or otherwise unwell from the general dog population is crucial to preventing the spread of respiratory infections.

A Proactive Approach

The emergence of Mycoplasma canis as a significant cause of respiratory disease in dogs underscores the importance of vigilance and proactive care. If your dog develops a persistent cough or shows signs of illness, consult your veterinarian promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment can make all the difference in your pet’s recovery.

By staying informed and prioritizing preventative measures, pet owners can play a key role in protecting their dogs and the broader canine community from emerging respiratory diseases.

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