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Canine Distemper

CRITICAL EMERGENCY Contagious
Canine Distemper
© System

Overview

Canine Distemper is a severe, multi-systemic viral disease that affects the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and central nervous systems. It is highly contagious and often fatal, especially in unvaccinated puppies. It causes severe immunosuppression, opening the door for secondary infections.

Key / Hallmark Signs

  • ParalysisEmergency
  • Nasal discharge
  • SeizuresEmergency
  • Jaw chewing movements
  • Thick eye discharge
  • Thickened paw pads
  • Difficulty breathingEmergency
  • Head tilt
  • Breathing difficultyEmergency
  • Severe weaknessEmergency
  • Coughing
  • Lethargy
  • Blindness
  • Muscle twitching
  • Loss of appetite
  • Ataxia
  • Enlarged lymph nodes
  • Mouth ulcers
  • Tremors
  • Disorientation
  • Circling
  • Abnormal eye movement
  • Red eyes
  • Weakness
  • Noisy breathing
  • Rapid breathing
  • Fever
  • Dehydration

Common / Supporting Signs

  • Weight loss
  • Sneezing
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Drooling

Rare or Advanced Signs

  • Rash
  • Uncontrolled movements
  • Permanent nerve damage
  • Loss of balance

What to do?

This condition requires veterinary attention.

If your animal shows the Key or Common signs listed, please visit a clinic immediately. This is a life-threatening emergency.

Report Case / Get Help

Medical Details

Transmission

The virus is primarily spread through aerosol droplets from coughing and sneezing. It can also be spread through contact with urine, blood, or shared equipment. It does not survive long in the environment.

Progression & Stages

The disease starts with fever and respiratory signs (eye/nose discharge) and GI upset (vomiting/diarrhea). It later progresses to the CNS phase, causing seizures, "chewing gum" fits, and paralysis. Thickening of nose/pads ("Hardpad") occurs late.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is confirmed through PCR testing of swabs from the eyes/nose or blood. Clinical signs like the combination of respiratory and neurological symptoms are highly suggestive.

Treatment Protocols

There is no cure for distemper. Treatment is purely supportive: IV fluids, antibiotics for secondary pneumonia, and anti-seizure medications. Isolation is strictly required to protect other dogs.

Prevention

Vaccination is the only effective prevention. The DHPP core vaccine is highly effective and should be given to all puppies starting at 6-8 weeks of age.

Prognosis

The prognosis is poor. Mortality rates are high (up to 50% in adults, 80% in puppies). Dogs that survive often suffer from permanent neurological damage (tics, seizures).

Medical References

  • AVMA, Merck Veterinary Manual

Medical DisclaimerThis information is for education only and does not replace examination, diagnosis, or treatment by a qualified veterinarian.