Distinguishing Canine Distemper from Cold: Key Identifi

Many dog owners are well aware that canine distemper is a deadly disease with a high mortality and infection rate. It can evoke a sense of rejection in pet owners, who might prefer to believe that their beloved dogs are merely suffering from a change in environment or a common cold. They may hesitate to accept that their pets could be suffering from canine distemper, regardless of their beliefs. However, sometimes, despite our best efforts, our dogs may contract this disease. Treating canine distemper as a common cold can lead to missing the best window for treatment, reducing the chances of recovery, and ultimately, could harm our pets.

Part 1: Differentiating Canine Distemper from a Cold

Canine distemper and the common cold are two distinct illnesses, and upon closer examination, their differences become apparent.

Firstly, the cause: Canine distemper is caused by the canine distemper virus, whereas the common cold is a result of a sudden exposure to cold weather.

Secondly, the cure rate: Canine distemper is a severe illness with a low cure rate and high mortality, and it is highly contagious. On the other hand, the common cold can also be cured.

Thirdly, the symptoms: Canine distemper has an incubation period of about 37 days. If it presents as a respiratory form, the initial symptoms may resemble a cold. However, once the disease takes hold, the body temperature may spike to around 40°C and then drop back to normal after 12 days.

Part 2: Symptoms of Canine Distemper in Dogs

After 23 days of illness, dogs with canine distemper may experience a recurrence of fever. They may cough, sneeze, and have thick,脓性的鼻涕, with dry nostrils. Their eyes may swell, and they may develop purulent conjunctivitis, often leading to corneal ulcers later on. Dogs may also swell, with pustular papules appearing on the abdominal and inner thigh skin. They may also frequently vomit and have diarrhea, and in the later stages, seizures can occur. These are all symptoms of canine distemper.

Other symptoms of canine distemper include cool tips of the ears and nose, continuous tears, rapid breathing, and a body temperature often ranging from 39°C to 40°C.

If your dog exhibits symptoms similar to a cold, do not take it lightly. It is crucial to have your pet tested for canine distemper immediately, ideally with a blood test, as it is more accurate. The accuracy rate for such tests is around 80%. It is also advisable to consult with multiple veterinary clinics.

If you notice your dog feeling unwell, it is recommended to take them for a checkup promptly.

Tip: Click on "What are the Aftereffects of Canine Distemper?" to learn more about the potential longterm effects of canine distemper.