Distemper is a virus that attacks several body systems including the respiratory and nervous systems. It is spread in the air and via contact with infected dogs and things they have touched. There is no cure for distemper; treatment can only be given to ease the symptoms. Distemper is a severe illness that is often fatal; if a dog does survive initially, there are often long-term neurological problems that can include: seizures, limb paralysis and muscle spasms.
Don’t be too alarmed, in Donnachoe and Townsend we have your dog covered with a simple vaccination which is also included in our Dog Pet Health for Life Plan. You can spread the cost and save by paying monthly. Click here to find out more about our Dog Pet Health for Life Plan.
Distemper FAQs:
What are the symptoms of distemper in dogs?
Symptoms of distemper vary a great deal, depending which organs are affected, symptoms are usually:
- cough
- fever
- inappetence
- lethargy
- runny eyes and nose
- diarrhoea.
This can then progress to more severe symptoms including:
- thickened nose and foot pads
- tremors
- paralysis
- seizures.
Can a dog recover from distemper?
Distemper can often be fatal, if a dog does survive initially, there are often long-term neurological problems that can include: seizures, limb paralysis and muscle spasms. Treatment can only be given to ease the symptoms; therefore, we recommend vaccinations.
What is distemper in dogs?
Distemper is a virus that attacks several body systems including the respiratory and nervous system. Distemper can be fatal, however, if a dog does survive, they are left with long-term neurological symptoms, therefore, we recommend vaccinations.
Can cats get distemper?
Dogs cannot transmit canine distemper to a cat, however feline panleukopenia virus (FPV) can also be referred to as feline distemper or feline parvovirus – is a viral disease that can cause severe illness in cats, attacking the immune system.
Can cats get distemper from dogs?
Dogs cannot transmit canine distemper to a cat, however feline panleukopenia virus (FPV) can also be referred to as feline distemper or feline parvovirus.
How do cats get distemper?
Feline distemper is predominantly spread through the air and then this is transmitted by breathing in the virus from an infected cat or environment. It can also be transmitted through direct contact with bodily fluids (saliva, faeces, nasal discharge, or urine) of an infected cat.
How can canine distemper be prevented?
Distemper can be prevented with vaccinations.