HEALTH CENTER
Natural Support for Valley Fever in Dogs and Cats
Helping Your Pet’s Body Heal During Recovery
by Darleen Rudnick, B.S.W., M.H.N., Certified Holistic Nutritionist
Valley Fever is caused by fungal spores found in desert soil, and good nutrition may help support your pet’s recovery.
If your dog or cat has been diagnosed with Valley Fever, you have probably already visited your veterinarian and may have been told that treatment could take months. Many pet owners come to me because they want to know what they can do naturally to support their pet during recovery. While antifungal medication is often necessary for many pets, nutrition and holistic support can play an important role in helping the body heal and supporting the immune system.
What Is Valley Fever?
Valley Fever is a fungal infection most commonly found in the dry desert regions of the southwestern United States. Pets become infected by breathing in microscopic fungal spores that live in the soil. The disease is not contagious to other pets or people.
Common Symptoms
- Persistent cough
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Lethargy or fatigue
- Lameness or swollen joints
- Difficulty breathing
- Enlarged lymph nodes
- Skin sores in some pets
- Eye inflammation
Below is a video of a dog with the "Valley Fever cough."
Is your dog or cat coughing, tired, or losing weight from Valley Fever?
A conversation about your pet is a good place to start.
Book a Consultation
"Now that she is on the supplements and homemade diet you suggested, she is 100% better! I want you to know that you have saved her life."
Kaye P.
How Is Valley Fever Diagnosed?
Your veterinarian will usually recommend blood testing to confirm the diagnosis. In some cases additional testing may be needed depending on how advanced the disease has become.
My Holistic Approach
My goal is to help strengthen your pet's body while it is fighting the infection. Every pet is different, so I do not believe in a one-size-fits-all program. Diet, supplements, age, medications, and the overall health of your pet must all be considered before making recommendations.
Nutrition Matters
I recommend feeding a fresh, high-quality diet made with wholesome ingredients whenever possible. A nutrient-rich diet provides the building blocks needed for tissue repair and immune function while avoiding unnecessary artificial colors, preservatives, and low-quality fillers.
Supportive Supplements
Depending on the individual pet, supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids, probiotics, digestive support, antioxidants, and other immune-supportive nutrients may be beneficial. These should always be selected specifically for your pet rather than using a generic supplement program.
Every Pet Deserves an Individual Plan
There is no single diet or supplement program that is right for every pet with Valley Fever. If you would like a personalized nutrition and holistic support program designed specifically for your dog or cat, I would be happy to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Valley Fever in dogs and cats?
Valley Fever is a fungal infection caused by breathing in microscopic spores found in soil, most commonly in the dry desert regions of the southwestern United States. It isn't contagious to other pets or people.
What are the symptoms of Valley Fever in pets?
Common symptoms include a persistent cough, fever, loss of appetite, weight loss, lethargy, lameness or swollen joints, and difficulty breathing. Some pets also develop skin sores or eye inflammation.
How long does Valley Fever treatment take?
Treatment often takes months and typically involves antifungal medication prescribed by your veterinarian. Recovery timelines vary depending on how advanced the infection is and how your pet responds to treatment.
Can nutrition help a pet recover from Valley Fever?
Yes, alongside veterinary treatment. A fresh, high-quality diet provides the nutrients needed for tissue repair and immune support, while avoiding unnecessary artificial additives and fillers that offer little nutritional value.
What supplements might help a pet with Valley Fever?
Depending on the individual pet, supportive options like omega-3 fatty acids, probiotics, digestive support, and antioxidants may be beneficial. These should be chosen specifically for your pet rather than as a one-size-fits-all approach.
Important Note
The recommendations in this article are general suggestions for treating your pet naturally. It is important to look at each pet individually and determine what works best, and it is highly recommended that you consider a consultation.
A consultation includes a personalized diet and holistic program, all custom-tailored to your pet's personal needs. This is particularly imperative in pets with complicated health issues, or if you've done outside reading and have conflicting information.
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