What is Canine Distemper?
Canine Distemper is a highly contagious viral disease that affects dogs worldwide. It is caused by the Canine Distemper Virus (CDV), which belongs to the same family of viruses that cause measles in humans. Distemper attacks multiple body systems including the respiratory tract, gastrointestinal tract, and nervous system, making it a serious and often fatal condition if not treated on time.
Causes of Canine Distemper
The main cause of distemper is the Canine Distemper Virus (CDV). It spreads mainly through:
Airborne exposure – sneezing, coughing, or direct contact with respiratory droplets.
Contaminated environments – food bowls, water, bedding, or shared toys.
Infected animals – dogs, foxes, wolves, coyotes, ferrets, raccoons, and even large cats can carry CDV.
Puppies and unvaccinated dogs are most vulnerable to infection.
Symptoms of Canine Distemper in Dogs
Signs of distemper can vary depending on the stage and severity of the disease. The common symptoms include:
Early Symptoms:
Fever and lethargy
Nasal and eye discharge
Sneezing and coughing
Loss of appetite
Vomiting and diarrhea
Advanced Symptoms:
Thickened paw pads (also called “hard pad disease”)
Severe dehydration
Difficulty breathing
Neurological issues such as muscle twitching, seizures, head tilt, and paralysis
The symptoms may appear gradually and worsen over time, often leading to long-term nervous system damage in survivors.
Diagnosis of Canine Distemper
Veterinarians usually diagnose distemper through:
Physical examination (checking symptoms like discharge, fever, and neurological signs)
Blood tests (to detect antibodies or the virus itself)
PCR test (a highly sensitive test to identify CDV genetic material)
Imaging (sometimes X-rays are used to check for pneumonia caused by the virus)
Treatment of Canine Distemper
Unfortunately, there is no specific cure for Canine Distemper Virus. Treatment focuses on supportive care and managing symptoms:
Hospitalization & IV fluids – to prevent dehydration.
Antibiotics – to control secondary bacterial infections.
Anticonvulsant medications – to reduce seizures.
Nutritional support – ensuring proper diet to maintain strength.
Immune-boosting therapy – some dogs may receive interferons or other immune support medications.
Recovery depends on the dog’s immune system, age, and overall health. Many dogs with severe neurological signs may not survive.
Prevention of Canine Distemper
Prevention is the most effective way to protect dogs from distemper. Steps include:
1. Vaccination – The distemper vaccine is part of the core dog vaccines (DHPP). Puppies should begin their vaccination series at 6–8 weeks of age, with booster shots every few weeks until 16 weeks, then regular adult boosters.
2. Isolation of sick dogs – Keep infected dogs separated to prevent spreading the virus.
3. Disinfection – CDV is sensitive to heat and disinfectants, so cleaning kennels, bowls, and bedding is essential.
4. Avoid exposure – Do not allow unvaccinated puppies to interact with unknown dogs in parks, shelters, or grooming areas.
Prognosis of Canine Distemper
The survival rate depends on the severity of symptoms and the dog’s immune response. Some dogs recover but may suffer from permanent neurological problems such as tremors or seizures. Others, especially young unvaccinated puppies, may not survive.
