Learn about canine distemper in dogs—symptoms, causes, treatment, and prevention. Discover expert tips from Cheka Paws India to protect your pet’s health.
In this Guide, we will learn about Canine Distemper, it’s symptoms, treatments and prevention. My name is Vrinda Bhardwaj, we are at Chekapaws. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
What Is Canine Distemper?
Canine distemper is a highly contagious and potentially fatal viral disease affecting domestic dogs and other animals such as ferrets, raccoons, and foxes.
Caused by the canine distemper virus (CDV), a member of the Paramyxoviridae family, distemper attacks multiple body systems—including the respiratory, gastrointestinal, nervous, and immune systems—leading to a wide range of symptoms and complications.
Distemper remains a significant concern for pet owners in India and worldwide, especially among unvaccinated dogs and puppies under four months old. Early detection and prompt veterinary care are crucial for improving outcomes and preventing the spread of the disease.
Symptoms of Canine Distemper
Signs and symptoms canine distemper include:
- Nasal discharge
- Fever
- Eye discharge
- Lethargy
- Sneezing
- Coughing
- Difficulty Breathing
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Thickening of nose and foot pads
- Pneumonia
- Pain
How is canine distemper spread?
Puppies and dogs most often get infected through airborne exposure (through sneezing or coughing) to the virus from an infected dog or wild animal. Canine distemper is caused by the paramyxovirus virus.
The good news is that the virus does not last long in the environment and can be destroyed by most disinfectants. The bad news is that distemper-infected dogs can shed the virus for up to several months, putting dogs around them at risk.
The virus can also be transmitted by shared food and water bowls and equipment. Mother dogs can pass the virus through the placenta to their puppies. Canine distemper can occur year round, but the virus is resistant to cold. The majority of cases in domestic dogs occur in the late fall and winter.
What Dogs Are Most at Risk for Distemper?
While all dogs are at risk for distemper, weaker dogs are at great risk of contracting the disease. The unvaccinated dogs and puppies under four months old are particularly susceptible to canine distemper. If your puppy shows any symptoms of distemper, call your vet immediately.
Dogs infected with canine distemper must be separated from other dogs to minimize the risk of further infection. Vaccination is crucial in preventing canine distemper.
Treatment for distemper
There is no cure for canine distemper infection, but treatment involves managing the symptoms, Distemper treatment for dogs consists of supportive care. The survival rate and length of infection depend on the strain of the virus and on the strength of the dog’s immune system. Distemper treatment may include the following:
- Antibiotics
- Medication to reduce vomiting
- Pain Relievers
- Fever reducers
- Hospitalization
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