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What Is Distemper in Dogs? Canine distemper is a highly contagious viral disease in dogs that affects the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems, and it can be fatal if not treated.
The virus spreads through contact with infected animals or their secretions and can be prevented through vaccination.
Recognizing the symptoms early and ensuring proper vaccination is key to protecting your dog from this serious illness.
How Dogs Get Distemper
Distemper is caused by the canine distemper virus (CDV), which is similar to the measles virus in humans.
Dogs usually contract the virus by coming into contact with an infected animal’s respiratory secretions, such as sneezes or coughs, or by sharing food or water with an infected dog.
Wild animals like raccoons and foxes can also carry the virus, making it a threat to unvaccinated dogs that spend time outdoors.
How Is Canine Distemper Spread?
Canine distemper can be transmitted through several means:
- Direct Contact: Dogs can contract the virus by coming into direct contact with an infected animal or contaminated object.
- Airborne Exposure: The virus can be spread through the air, similar to how humans spread the common cold. Infected dogs or wild animals release aerosol droplets when they cough, sneeze, or bark, which can infect nearby animals and surfaces, such as food and water bowls.
- Placental Transmission: Infected mother dogs can pass the virus to their puppies through the placenta.
Although the virus does not survive long in the environment and is easily eliminated by most disinfectants, infected dogs can shed the virus for several months, posing a risk to nearby dogs.
Additionally, wild animals like raccoons, foxes, and skunks can also carry the virus, which means local outbreaks in wildlife can endanger dogs even if they do not interact with other dogs.
It is crucial to fully vaccinate any dog intended for breeding to prevent transmission to puppies
Learn more about viral diseases in dogs on Wikipedia.
Symptoms of Canine Distemper
The symptoms of distemper can vary depending on which body systems are affected. Early signs of distemper may be mistaken for other, less severe illnesses, making early detection and veterinary intervention crucial.
Respiratory Symptoms
In the early stages, distemper affects the dog’s respiratory system, causing symptoms similar to kennel cough or other common respiratory infections.
- Coughing: A reflex action to clear the throat or airways; in dogs, it can indicate irritation or infection in the respiratory tract.
- Sneezing: An involuntary expulsion of air from the nose and mouth; often a sign of nasal irritation or infection.
- Nasal Discharge: Fluid that flows from the nostrils; can be clear, cloudy, or colored, indicating possible infection or inflammation.
- Fever: An elevated body temperature, typically above 102.5°F (39.2°C); can indicate infection or illness in dogs.
Gastrointestinal Symptoms
As the virus progresses, it may affect the gastrointestinal system, leading to more severe symptoms.
- Vomiting: The act of expelling the contents of the stomach through the mouth; can be a sign of illness or irritation in the digestive tract.
- Diarrhea: Loose or watery stools; can lead to dehydration and indicates gastrointestinal distress.
- Lack of Appetite: A decreased desire to eat; can be a sign of various health issues, including infections.
- Dehydration: A condition that occurs when the body loses more fluids than it takes in; can lead to serious health issues if not addressed.
Neurological Symptoms
In advanced cases, distemper can invade the nervous system, causing life-threatening neurological issues.
- Seizures: Sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbances in the brain, leading to convulsions or altered behavior.
- Twitching (Myoclonus): Involuntary muscle contractions or spasms; can be a sign of neurological involvement.
- Paralysis: The loss of ability to move one or more parts of the body; can indicate severe neurological damage.
- Loss of Coordination: Difficulty in controlling movements, leading to clumsiness or instability; often indicates neurological impairment.
Early recognition of these symptoms and prompt veterinary care are essential for the best possible outcome in dogs affected by distemper.
For more on recognizing early signs of illness, visit our guide to identifying dog symptoms.
