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Everything You Need To Know About Dog Distemper

May 2, 2011 in Home by petlovers

Dogs that have a bout of distemper can experience problems with many different body systems. The gastrointestinal, respiratory, and central nervous systems of your dog can be affected. The disease, which usually affects young puppies, is most often fatal. Here is all owners need to know about distemper in canines.

The air is the main mode of transmission of the virus that causes distemper. Dogs that breathe these airborne particles in will become infected. If your dog has been infected, you will shed the virus in his urine and feces. The virus won’t be gone even after the symptoms have gone away. Your dog will keep shedding the virus for a few weeks. After a complete recovery however, the dog will stop shedding the virus.

As mentioned earlier, distemper can cause problems with various bodily systems. Vomiting, conjunctivitis, and diarrhea are some of the most common symptoms. Dogs may also develop pneumonia and other symptoms of upper respiratory infection.

If your dog is infected with this virus, he may have eye inflammation, a fever, or lose his appetite. If the virus affects the central nervous system, your dog may experience seizures, depression, and also loss of motor skills. Something more serious may be wrong with your dog if he experiences any of these signs.

Canine distemper can sometimes be hard to diagnose since other conditions can cause some of its same symptoms. After sending a sample to a laboratory, the diagnosis can be confirmed. There are various methods used to detect the virus and dogs that are affected will have low white blood cell counts.

Secondary bacterial infections may also occur. Therefore, the vet may elect to give your dog antibiotics too. If diarrhea is a problem, medications can be given to the relieve that. Some dogs become dehydrated because of the diarrhea. They will need to be given intravenous fluids.

Most dogs are given a vaccine to prevent infection by this virus. All dogs need to be given this vaccination shot. Some dogs will need to receive a booster shot every couple of years or so.

It’s important that all owners know about various canine illnesses. You never know when your dog will get sick. Recognizing the signs quickly can go a long way. So, head over to common-dog-diseases.com today to learn about some of these conditions.

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Pet Owner’s Guide To Distemper In Cats

February 10, 2011 in Home by petlovers

Feline distemper is a disease commonly referred to as panleukopenia. This is a very life-threatening disease which most cats are unable to recover from. Cats are routinely vaccinated against this disease, so it’s very rare in household pets. Here is everything you need to know regarding distemper in cats.

Cause

This virus is commonly found in the wild. The virus can be transmitted through infected feces or urine. Cats infected with the virus can shed it in their urine and stool up to six weeks after getting over the illness themselves. The virus can also be harbored in litter boxes, clothing, food dishes, and bedding.

Symptoms

This disease causes felines to exhibit various symptoms. They include seizures, diarrhea, vomiting, and fever. It’s also common for cats to stop eating. These symptoms usually appear about five days after being exposed to the virus.

Treatment

This disease can easily be fatal to kittens and younger cats. The main course of treatment involves supportive care. Dehydration is a common problem, so intravenous fluids are given to combat it. Blood transfusions may be required in severe cases. Antibiotics may also be given to deal with secondary bacterial infections.

Prevention

The virus that causes feline distemper can survive for years in the environment. Also, you should be aware that many common disinfectants aren’t strong enough to kill this virus. If the virus is exposed to a solution of bleach and water for more than ten minutes, it will be strong enough to kill it. All cats given their regular shots are vaccinated for distemper or panleukopenia.

As an owner, it is best that you learn all you can about cat health problems. In case your cat does fall ill, knowing about these different conditions will help you recognize it quickly. To learn about a range of diseases, head on over to common-cat-diseases.com today.

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