Infectious Tracheobronchitis (Kennel Cough) is a contagious disease most commonly seen in dogs. It is usually caused by the bacteria Bordetella in dogs and cats, and dogs can also get Kennel Cough with Parainfluenza or Adenovirus. The multiple sources of infection places importance on both antibacterial and antiviral methods for the treatment and prevention of Infectious Tracheobronchitis.
The symptoms of Kennel Cough will alert the pet parent to a problem, but it may be confused with other issues. The coughing and gagging may be confused with choking, for example. It’s important to consult with a veterinarian for positive diagnosis and before administering natural treatments. Also ask your vet before adding supplements to your pet’s diet to avoid drug interactions or negative impact on existing conditions.
Naturally Treat and Prevent Kennel Cough
Vaccination is most commonly used to prevent Infectious Tracheobronchitis. Natural “vaccination” is available through homeopathic nosodes, for those who prefer them. However, recent cases of Kennel Cough have been reported in animals in spite of them being vaccinated.
Nurturing a healthy immune system in your pet is the key to preventing any infection, be it bacterial or viral.  The basis of optimum immune function is a healthy, balanced diet. Additionally, there are foods and supplements that kick the immune system into high gear to prevent infection or reduce severity and recovery time.
Antiviral and Antibacterial Foods and Supplements
Foods high in antioxidants, such as berries, green tea and whole Krill.
Reishi & Maitake mushrooms
Seaweed
Raw honey
Yogurt with active cultures
Virgin coconut oil (unrefined)
Ginger
Cinnamon
Chicory
Turmeric (Curcumin)
Calcium Montmorillonite Clay
Colloidal Silver
Neem
Olive leaf
Dandelion leaf
Aloe vera
Yarrow
Marshmallow
Echinacea
Astragalus
Gotu Kola
Oregon Grape
St. John’s Wort
Goldenseal
Vitamin C
Essential oils can offer the immune system a helping paw, according to author, Kristen Leigh Bell. Try mixing up a heavily-diluted blend and massage it into your dog’s neck and chest. Ms. Bell’s essential oil recipe for immunity includes 2 drops each of Bay Laurel, Ravensare, Palmorosa, Eucalyptus radiata, Niaouli, Coriander Seed, and Thyme thujanol mixed into 1/2 ounce of hazelnut or sweet almond base oil. She suggests applying 2-4 drops per day. Essential oils should not be used on, or around, cats.
Steam is often recommended to help the cough associated with Infectious Tracheobronchitis, which is far safer than prescribed cough suppressants. If there is a lot of eye and nose congestion, you can clean it up with a saline solution. Dr. Richard H. Pitcairn recommends stirring 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt into a cup of non-chlorinated water, warmed to body temperature. Soak a cotton ball with the solution and squeeze a couple of drops into into each nostril, which should earn you a sneeze or two to clear the nose. The same solution can be used to clean the eyes.
Homeopathic remedies for dogs or cats with Kennel Cough begin with Pulsatilla 6C, followed by Silicea 30C. If there is no improvement, try Thuya/Thuja 30C. If all else fails, use Sulphur element 30C.
Have you ever treated a dog with Infectious Tracheobronchitis? Please share your experience and tips in the comments below.
Sources & Citations:
Pitcairn, Richard H. Dr. Pitcairn’s New Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs and Cats. 2017.
Messonnier, Shawn DVM. Natural Health Bible for Dogs & Cats: Your A-Z Guide to Over 200 Conditions, Herbs, Vitamins, and Supplements. 2001.
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Last Updated on January 12, 2026 by Digital Manager: Melody McKinnon
We board our pets privately when we travel because of diseases like this. I worry about the vet and other places dogs go too.
Scary stuff! We’ve used nosodes and no kennel cough here even though they go to doggy daycare, groomers, dog parks and so on. It doesn’t necessarily prove they work but I’ll use them unnless I find out they don’t.
My dog had kennel cough from a groomer and it was a horrible thing to deal with. They’re miserable and you can’t help them and that COUGH! It’s heartbreaking. Needless to say I didn’t go to that groomer again! Thanks for the tips for keeping such a horrible disease away.
How interesting. I love learning about natural remedies and prevention techniques because I’m used to a more conventional treatment method. I always thought the vaccine wasn’t that effective, but it’s just a personal observation.
The natural vaccine or conventional? The reason I ask is there are homeopathic veterinarians who will only use nosodes prepared by certain pharmacies, claiming some sources offer a more effective product. Quality varies in most things so I can see that being the case.