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Coughing dogs and cats: new guidelines call for fewer antibiotics

Photo: Unsplash (free licence).

Quick answer: the new guidelines from Spain's National Plan against Antibiotic Resistance (PRAN), presented in October 2026, point out that not every dog or cat with a cough or runny nose needs antibiotics. Many respiratory infections are viral, and if your pet is eating, active and has no fever, supportive treatment may be enough. With fever, lethargy, loss of appetite or thick discharge, your vet will decide whether tests are needed first.

Autumn brings changes in temperature and, with them, more vet visits for coughing dogs and sneezing cats. Right now, as Diario Veterinario reported on 27 October 2026, PRAN has presented three clinical management guidelines developed with specialists, the Spanish Agency of Medicines and Medical Devices (AEMPS) and the Ministry of Agriculture. The aim is to use antibiotics only when they bring a real benefit and to slow resistance.

Coughing dogs: canine infectious respiratory disease complex

The first guideline covers canine infectious respiratory disease complex, the typical cough that spreads between dogs. Its main messages:

  • The cause is usually viral, and antibiotics are overused.
  • If the dog is well, eating normally, active and without fever, symptomatic treatment prescribed by the vet may be enough.
  • With fever, lethargy, loss of appetite or mucopurulent discharge, blood tests or chest X-rays may be needed.
  • Older, immunosuppressed dogs or those with other conditions need a different assessment.
  • It is best to keep the dog away from other dogs while the cough lasts, and to consider vaccination for at-risk groups.

Sneezing cats and cat flu: green mucus is not the whole story

The third guideline focuses on feline upper respiratory tract disease, which often has several causes at once, both viral and bacterial. The specialists stress that green mucus does not confirm a bacterial infection, and a positive culture or PCR does not automatically mean antibiotics. Mild acute cases often improve within 5 to 7 days without antimicrobials. Fever, lethargy, loss of appetite or heavy discharge, however, justify considering treatment.

The second guideline, on lower respiratory tract infections, recommends reassessing the patient after 5 to 7 days, or every 48 to 72 hours in severe cases, and not extending treatment just because an X-ray still shows changes.

What you can do at home

  • Do not give leftover antibiotics from a previous course or human medicines.
  • If your vet prescribes an antibiotic, complete the full course exactly as instructed.
  • While your dog is coughing, use a harness instead of a collar to avoid pressure on the neck.
  • Always offer fresh, clean water; many cats drink more from a flowing water fountain.
  • Seek urgent care if you see breathing difficulties, bluish gums, a high fever or if your pet stops eating.

See more dog collars and harnesses and cat water fountains.

Frequently asked questions

Does kennel cough clear up on its own?

Many mild cases improve with supportive care, but your vet should confirm this. If fever, lethargy or loss of appetite appear, go back for another check.

Why won't the vet prescribe an antibiotic “just in case”?

Because if the cause is a virus it will not help, and it encourages resistance, which can make antibiotics stop working when they are really needed.

Should my cat with a runny nose see the vet?

Yes, if it stops eating, seems lethargic, struggles to breathe or does not improve within a few days. Kittens and older cats should be seen sooner.

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