What is Distemper?

Distemper is an infectious and highly contagious virus that attacks the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and central nervous systems of cats, dogs and other animals. It is also called canine distemper virus (CDV) and Feline Distemper Virus (FDV). This virus has been known to infect ferrets, raccoons, mink, skunks, foxes, wolves and other wildlife. Unvaccinated puppies and kittens as well as adult dogs and cats with weak or undeveloped immune systems are most prone to the disease.

Symptoms of Canine or Feline Distemper

The symptoms of distemper can vary depending on the species affected. In puppies and kittens, they may appear very similar to those of the common cold, including fever, eye and nasal discharge, sneezing, coughing and loss of appetite. As the disease progresses, more serious signs such as neurologic disorders will be evident including seizures, muscle twitching, confusion, and circling behaviour. The virus can affect the gastrointestinal system leading to vomiting and diarrhea. In cats, the most commonly seen symptom is vomiting, often with a watery or bloody diarrhea.

Treatment of Distemper

There is no specific treatment for distemper. Treatment is based on supportive care and management of the symptoms. This includes providing a warm environment, fluids and nutrition, antibiotics to fight any secondary bacterial infections, and medications to keep seizures under control. If the disease progresses too far, euthanasia may be the only option.

Prevention of Distemper

The best way to prevent distemper is by vaccinating puppies, kittens and other animals depending on their breed and risk of exposure. Vaccines are a safe and effective way to protect against distemper and other infectious diseases. Regular health checkups and regular cleaning and disinfection is also important in preventing the spread of infectious diseases.