Do dogs with cold always have distemper?

Not all cases of dog cold necessarily lead to distemper. The initial symptoms of canine distemper are similar to those of common cold, such as some common upper respiratory infection symptoms. The infection has a high fatality rate, especially in young dogs. Therefore, if you suspect that your dog has distemper, it is recommended to take it to the hospital for confirmation immediately.

Difference between cold and distemper

The symptoms of dog cold and distemper are similar. A simple exclusion method can be used with test papers. Dogs with cold usually have clear nasal discharge, followed by sneezing and coughing. Some dogs may have symptoms such as watery eyes, red and swollen conjunctiva, mild swelling, increased body temperature, depression, shivering, and loss of appetite. Anus temperature measurement can exceed 40°C. When a dog with cold has a body temperature above 40°C and shivers, antipyretic and analgesic drugs can be used.

Early symptoms of distemper

In the early stages of the disease, the dog appears lethargic and loss of appetite. The eyes and nose secrete mucus, and the body temperature rises twice. After the second increase in body temperature, the condition gradually worsens, with symptoms such as vomiting, pneumonia, diarrhea, hyperkeratosis of the paws and nose. Early isolation and treatment of sick dogs is necessary to prevent secondary infections, which is the key to improving the cure rate and reducing the mortality rate.

Treatment of distemper

In the early stages of the disease, monoclonal antibodies against distemper or highly immunized serum against distemper are injected. The course of distemper is long, and the sick dog's physical condition is poor. During the treatment of distemper, nursing should be strengthened. Good care and a comfortable environment are very beneficial to the dog's recovery. However, the current use of Western veterinary medicine for treatment, such as fluid infusion, analgesia, and other symptomatic supportive treatments, is not satisfactory because most Western medicine treatments focus on anti-inflammatory and cough-suppressing biological products. In some cases, traditional Chinese veterinary medicine treatments, such as blood dryness and heat therapy, Qi dryness and heat therapy, and prescription therapy, may have relatively better effects.