The early signs of canine distemper are what symptoms?

Canine distemper is a serious and highly contagious disease that affects dogs. It's caused by a virus that's similar to the measles virus in humans. Recognizing the early signs of distemper is crucial for the health and well-being of your furry friend. Here are the symptoms to watch out for and some practical advice on how to handle them.

Early Symptoms

One of the earliest signs of distemper is a hacking cough or a persistent dry cough. This is often mistaken for kennel cough, but it's important to differentiate between the two. Distemper can also cause your dog to have a runny nose, which may start as a clear discharge and then turn yellow or green as the disease progresses.

Another early symptom is a slight fever. You might notice your dog is a bit lethargic or not as playful as usual. Loss of appetite is also common during the initial stages of distemper. Keep an eye on your dog's eating habits and energy levels.

Eye and Neurological Symptoms

As the virus spreads, it can affect your dog's eyes, leading to conjunctivitis or inflammation of the eye. You might notice redness, discharge, or your dog pawing at their eyes. In some cases, the eyes can become cloudy or even develop a blue haze over the corneas.

Distemper can also impact the central nervous system, leading to a variety of neurological symptoms. These can include seizures, tremors, or unusual behavior such as head pressing or walking in circles. These symptoms can be alarming and should prompt immediate veterinary attention.

Skin Symptoms