Many dog parents are aware that canine distemper is a deadly disease with a high case fatality rate and a high infection rate. Some may have a tendency to dismiss their beloved dogs’ symptoms, preferring to believe that the cause lies in environmental changes or just a minor cold. However, whether accepted or not, canine distemper can affect dogs. Treating canine distemper as a common cold may lead to missing the optimal time for treatment and a reduction in the dog’s chances of recovery. Ignoring the severity of the disease could harm the dog.
Firstly, it is essential to understand the distinctions between canine distemper and a cold.
Canine distemper and a cold are two distinct diseases, and careful differentiation reveals their differences.
- Etiology analysis: Canine distemper is caused by the canine distemper virus, while a cold is caused by sudden exposure to cold temperatures.
- Cure rate analysis: Canine distemper is characterized by a low cure rate, high mortality, and high contagiousness, whereas colds can often be cured.
- Symptom analysis: Canine distemper has an incubation period of 3-7 days. If it manifests as a respiratory type, early symptoms may resemble a cold, but the body temperature exhibits biphasic changes, initially rising to approximately 40°C and returning to normal after 1 to 2 days.
Next, let’s delve into the symptoms of canine distemper.
After 2 to 3 days of contracting canine distemper, a dog may experience fever again. Symptoms include coughing, sneezing, a runny nose, and dry nose. In the later stages, the dog may develop swelling of the eyelids, purulent conjunctivitis, and corneal ulcers. Additionally, edema and the growth of purulent papules on the abdomen and inner thigh may occur. Vomiting, diarrhea, and convulsions may also appear in the later stages, constituting the typical symptoms of canine distemper in dogs.
Signs of severe canine distemper include cold ears and nose, constant tearing, shortness of breath, and an elevated body temperature, typically reaching 39-40°C.
If a dog exhibits symptoms resembling a cold, owners must not be complacent. A canine distemper test, preferably a blood test for its higher accuracy rate of 80%, should be conducted promptly. It is advisable to visit a veterinary hospital for a comprehensive examination if the dog is found to be unwell.
