There is no risk of cross contamination between dogs and cats in relation to the different strains of distemper
, but animals and humans can carry the disease on their bodies and spread it that way. Symptoms in dogs include a high fever, lack of appetite and lack of energy. The dog may lose weight and become dehydrated.
How Long Can cats live with distemper?
Mortality of the sick is typically considered 90%, though it has been said that
a kitten that survives the first 5 days
is likely to survive the infection. Recovered kittens are considered contagious for six weeks following recovery. A special syndrome occurs if infection occurs during pregnancy.
Is cat and dog distemper the same?
It has been referred to as Feline Distemper, but in fact,
it is a different virus than canine distemper
and causes different symptoms. Early symptoms of feline distemper infection are lethargy and loss of appetite then rapid progression to severe, sometimes bloody diarrhea and vomiting.
Can cats survive distemper?
In adult cats, signs may be mild and may go unnoticed. When the immune system is strong and proper treatment is provided, there is a very good chance for full recovery.
If a cat survives the first five days, prognosis is very good.
Do cats get distemper shots?
Whether your cat lives indoors or outdoors,
it’s important to have them vaccinated with the feline distemper vaccine
. Cats are at an increased risk during the first few years of their life. At Animal Clinic of Woodruff, we recommend having them vaccinated as kittens, with then with a yearly booster.
Can an indoor cat get distemper?
Even indoor cats can be exposed to distemper if you bring home the virus after petting a neighbor’s cat, if a fly brings the virus into your home, or even if a stray cat rubs against a patio chair that you later bring inside.
How do you get rid of distemper in cats?
Medications: Most cats with feline distemper are treated with
fluid therapy, anti-nausea medications, B-vitamins, and antibiotics
. In severe cases, other medications may also be necessary.
Can distemper be cured?
There is no cure for canine distemper infection
. Treatment typically consists of supportive care and efforts to prevent secondary infections; control vomiting, diarrhea and neurologic symptoms; and combat dehydration through administration of fluids.
How long does the first stage of distemper last?
The survival rate and length of infection depend on the strain of the virus and on the strength of the dog’s immune system. Some cases resolve as quickly as
10 days
. Other cases may exhibit neurological symptoms for weeks and even months afterward.
Do cats need distemper every year?
specific guidelines regarding this issue. Their recommendations state that, following an appropriate initial vaccination protocol,
the FVRCP (distemper/respiratory virus) vaccine need only be given every 3 years at most
.
Do cats need baths?
“In general,
a healthy adult cat doesn’t require bathing unless he or she has gotten into something that has coated the fur and can’t be easily removed with brushing
,” she says. “Cats groom themselves naturally, however their owners should help keep them clean by brushing or combing them regularly.”
Do distemper shot calm cats?
Yes, the distemper shot makes the cat develop antibodies to feline panleukopenia, or distemper.
It has nothing to do with aggressiveness whatsoever
.
Where do cats get distemper from?
Panleukopenia, also known as feline distemper, is an extremely contagious and deadly disease caused by a virus. The virus is spread
through contact with an infected cat’s saliva, urine, blood, nasal discharge, or feces
.
Can a kitten survive feline distemper?
Treatment and Outlook for Feline Panleukopenia
It’s rare for a kitten under eight weeks old to survive with this disease
. Additionally, 90 percent of kittens and cats older than that will have a fatal outcome unless they receive treatment.
How long does distemper stay in your house?
It will survive only
a few hours at room temperature
and a few weeks in cooler shady places. From time of infection to first clinical signs is 3-7 days.
What are the stages of distemper?
- Weepy eyes and nasal discharge.
- Coughing.
- Loss of appetite.
- Lethargy.
Can a dog live with distemper?
Despite the high death toll, euthanasia isn’t strictly necessary.
Plenty of dogs can survive distemper virus
, but not without a fight that includes expensive veterinary care most dog owners may be unable to shoulder.
