Dog Cold vs Canine Distemper: Don't Mix Up Symptoms!

Should your furry friend start to exhibit symptoms such as sniffling, sneezing, coughing, and a fever, it's crucial not to dismiss them as mere colds. While these signs might indeed resemble a common cold, they could also indicate a more serious condition: canine distemper. This highly contagious and often fatal viral disease can lead to severe complications if not treated promptly, potentially leaving your dog with lifelong consequences or even resulting in its loss.

Next, we'll delve into the nuances of distinguishing between canine colds and distemper, empowering pet owners to make informed decisions and provide the best care for their beloved companions.

How to Differentiate Between Canine Colds and Distemper?

1. Observing the Symptoms

● Cold Symptoms

Sniffling and sneezing are common, with the dog's spirits and appetite remaining relatively normal at first. In more severe cases, coughing may occur. Due to nasal discharge, your dog might appear listless, have a decreased appetite, heavy breathing, and could even develop a fever.

● Distemper Symptoms

Look out for yellow or white puslike discharge from the eyes and nose, along with coughing, listlessness, decreased appetite, and recurring fevers. Some dogs may also experience vomiting, diarrhea, thickened paw pads, and in severe cases, neurological symptoms like seizures, paralysis, and ataxia if the virus affects the nervous system.

2. Assessing the Immune Status

Canine distemper typically affects puppies that haven't been fully vaccinated or adult dogs that haven't received regular booster shots. Colds are more common after temperature changes, bathing, or exposure to cold weather.

The distemper virus spreads through direct or indirect contact, so if your dog has been out and about recently, has come into contact with other animals, or has been exposed to potential contaminants, the risk of infection increases.

3. Canine Distemper Test Kit

In case of suspected distemper infection, a canine distemper test kit can be used for an initial diagnosis.

● Prepare the distemper test kit

● Collect a sample of the dog's eye, nose, or oral secretions, mix it with diluent, and then apply a drop to the test strip

● Wait for 520 minutes and compare the results with the provided image.

The accuracy of the distemper test kit is over 95%. If a second line appears, it's generally a positive indication of distemper. For added peace of mind, a blood test can be conducted at your veterinarian's office.

What to Do for a Canine Cold?

● Puppies: Amoxicillinclavulanate potassium combined with Banlangen Granules

● Adult Dogs: Flunomycin (Doxycycline Tablets) plus Qingwen Baidu Tablets

● Fever: Gently wipe your dog's paws, ears, and areas with less fur on the abdomen with alcohol, or place a towel wrapped around an ice pack on the side of your dog.

PS: It's generally not advisable to give your dog overthecounter cold medications unless they are specifically formulated for pets. Always consult with a veterinarian before administering any medication.

Reference for Canine Distemper Medication

(If your dog is diagnosed with distemper, it's essential to seek veterinary care immediately as delays can lead to severe complications. The following information is for reference only):

● Antiviral: Canine distemper monoclonal antibody, interferon

● Antiinflammatory: Cefahexime, Suprofen, Bayli, Cefazolin sodium, etc.

● Antipyretic and Antitoxic: Shuanghuanglian Oral Liquid

● Antiemetic: Panshiding (Cimetidine Tablets) or Antivert

● Antidiarrheal: Bismuth Subcarbonate Tablets or Montmorillonite Powder

● Hydration: Glucose Saline, Normal Saline

● Nutrition: Vitamin B1 and B12 supplements to nourish the nervous system and prevent complications.

While symptomatic treatment can improve survival rates, many distemper cases leave lasting consequences. Regular vaccinations and maintaining your dog's immune health are key to keeping your furry friend healthy and happy.