Key idea
Respiratory diseases in dogs and cats are common cases in veterinary practice. Since the COVID pandemic, when people spend more time at home with their pets, owners have become more attentive to their animals’ health – and increasingly seek natural, complementary solutions.
Common respiratory problems in dogs
- Kennel cough (infectious tracheobronchitis) – A dry, harsh cough that commonly appears after returning from a kennel, shelter, or training class. Caused by viral and bacterial pathogens.
- Chronic bronchitis – Persistent coughing lasting longer than 2 months. More frequent in older dogs.
- Allergic respiratory reactions – Sneezing, nasal discharge, or coughing caused by pollens, dust mites, mold, or other allergens.
- Brachycephalic syndrome – Congenital airway narrowing in short-nosed breeds (pug, French bulldog, English bulldog, boxer) causing labored breathing, snoring, and snuffling.
Common respiratory problems in cats
- Feline asthma – Affects about 1–5% of cats. Symptoms: coughing, wheezy breathing, difficulty breathing. Allergic in origin, similar to human asthmatic respiratory symptoms.
- Upper respiratory infections – Viral colds (feline herpesvirus, calicivirus) that cause nasal discharge, sneezing, and eye discharge.
- Chronic rhinitis – Persistent nasal congestion and discharge, often as a complication of a previous infection.
How does salt therapy work in animals?
The mechanism of salt therapy in animals is the same as in humans. Inhaled microscopic salt particles:
- Thin respiratory secretions – by osmotic effect they attract water, loosening thick mucus so it can be cleared more easily
- Reduce mucosal swelling – improving airflow
- Have a natural antibacterial effect – salt inhibits the growth of some pathogens
- Provide anti-inflammatory effects – helping to reduce chronic airway inflammation
Scientific background
Research on veterinary salt therapy is still in its early stages, but based on human research results and veterinary experience, the method can be considered a promising complementary therapy.
2020 – Human literature review
The 2020 human literature review summarized 13 studies on halotherapy for chronic respiratory diseases and found positive effects on mucociliary clearance (airway self-cleaning) and lung function.1 These mechanisms are also applicable to the animal respiratory system.
In veterinary practice, an increasing number of clinics use salt therapy as a complementary treatment for respiratory problems in dogs and cats, particularly for chronic bronchitis, rehabilitation after kennel cough, and feline asthma.
When can salt therapy help?
In dogs
- Recovery after kennel cough – After the infection has passed, it may support regeneration of the airway mucosa
- Chronic bronchitis – As an adjunct therapy to help loosen secretions
- Allergic respiratory symptoms – For seasonal or year-round allergies
- Support for short-nosed breeds – To ease breathing in brachycephalic dogs
- Respiratory maintenance in older dogs – Prevention and general airway support
In cats
- Feline asthma – As a complementary therapy alongside treatment prescribed by your veterinarian
- Chronic rhinitis – To relieve nasal congestion
- Rehabilitation after upper respiratory infection – To support mucosal regeneration
Home use with the SaltDome device
The SaltDome ultrasonic salt therapy device can also be used for pets. The application is simple:
Practical guide
- Choose a smaller, enclosed room – The bedroom, a small room, or even the bathroom is ideal. The smaller the space, the more concentrated the salt aerosol.
- Place the device safely – Put it where the animal cannot knock it over or step into it. An elevated surface (shelf, table) is recommended.
- Stay with the pet – Remain in the room with your pet during the treatment. This calms them and you both benefit from the salt therapy.
- Treatment time – Start with 20–30 minutes and gradually increase to 45–60 minutes. For overnight use, the device can run for the full sleep duration.
Special tips by breed
Short-nosed (brachycephal) dogs
Pug, French bulldog, English bulldog, boxer, Pekingese and Shih Tzu breeds can particularly benefit from salt therapy. Regular use may help ease their already labored breathing.
Cats
Cats generally tolerate salt therapy better when they are in a familiar environment. Running the device at night in the bedroom often keeps the cat nearby out of curiosity, making treatment easier.
When NOT to use it?
Salt therapy is generally safe, but should be avoided or discussed with a veterinarian in certain cases:
- Acute respiratory infection or fever – Wait until the acute phase has passed
- Severe heart disease – Consult your veterinarian
- Known kidney disease – Salt metabolism may be affected
- Severe, untreated shortness of breath – Veterinary evaluation is required first
Important note
Salt therapy is a complementary method and does not replace veterinary treatment! If your pet shows respiratory symptoms, always consult your veterinarian first for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Possible reactions
Most animals tolerate salt therapy well. Possible reactions include:
- Increased nasal discharge during the first sessions – This is normal and a sign of mucus loosening
- Sneezing – Temporary, part of airway clearing
- Increased thirst – Provide fresh water for the animal
If the animal appears visibly uncomfortable, restless, or symptoms worsen, stop the treatment and consult your veterinarian.
Summary – Quick overview
A guide to using salt therapy for household pets – a complementary respiratory treatment for dogs and cats.
Dog and cat owners whose pets struggle with respiratory problems (kennel cough, chronic bronchitis, feline asthma, allergies, brachycephalic syndrome).
Salt therapy is a safe, natural complementary method that can help loosen respiratory secretions and support mucosal regeneration in pets. Used alongside veterinary treatment, it can support your pet’s recovery and breathing comfort.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, salt therapy is generally safe for household pets. The inhaled amount of salt is minimal, and natural salt is not toxic. Still, consult your veterinarian if your pet has a chronic condition.
Most owners notice improvement in their pet’s breathing after 1–2 weeks of regular use. Chronic problems require a longer period.
Yes, salt therapy is safe for multiple animals at the same time. If you have several dogs or cats, they can benefit together.
No. Salt therapy is a complementary method. For respiratory symptoms, always seek veterinary examination first to determine an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Salt therapy has primarily been studied in dogs and cats. There is insufficient experience with other household pets (birds, rabbits, guinea pigs), so caution is advised.
Related articles
Sources
- Barber D., et al. (2020). Halotherapy for Chronic Respiratory Disorders: From the Cave to the Clinical. Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine, 28(3):52-56. PubMed: 32827399
- Chervinskaya AV, Zilber NA. (1995). Halotherapy for treatment of respiratory diseases. Journal of Aerosol Medicine, 8(3):221-232. PubMed: 10161255
