Dogs
Symptoms:
- Lethargy,
- severe vomiting,
- loss of appetite and bloody,
- foul-smelling diarrhoea that can lead to life-threatening dehydration.
How is parvovirus transmitted?
Parvovirus is extremely contagious and can be transmitted by any person, animal or object that comes into contact with an infected dog’s faeces. Highly resistant, the virus can live in the environment for months, and may survive on inanimate objects such as food bowls, shoes, clothes, carpet and floors.
How is parovirus diagnosed?
Veterinarians diagnose parvovirus on the basis of clinical signs and laboratory testing. The enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (IDEX) test has become a common test for parvovirus. The index snap test is used to detect parvovirus in a dog’s stools and is performed in a vet’s office. Within 15 minutes you can have your results.
Which dogs are prone to Parvovirus?
Puppies, adolescent dogs and canines who are not vaccinated are most susceptible to the virus. The canine parvovirus affects most members of the dog family including wolves, coyotes, foxes and so on. Higher risk breeds include rottweilers, doberman pinschers, labrador retrievers, American staffordshire terriers and German shepherds.
How can Parvovirus be prevented?
You can protect your dog from this potential killer by making sure he’s up to date on his vaccinations.
Cats
Symptoms:
- High fever,
- seizures,
- disinterest,
- lethargy,
- depression,
- lack of appetite and
- diarrhoea.
How is parvovirus transmitted?
It is transmitted from pregnant mother to kittens and from sharing food and water bowls.
How is parvovirus diagnosed?
Swollen lymph nodes can be a sign that something is wrong, as well as a swollen and painful abdomen. Parvo attacks the digestive system, an inspection of the small intestines to check for inflammation might also be in order.
Which cats are prone to parvovirus?
Cats most are susceptible as kittens from four to 12 weeks of age, or even as unvaccinated adults.
How can parvovirus be prevented?
Vaccinate your cats and kittens, and be sure to keep up with these vaccinations.
DID YOU KNOW?
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