How long does it take for distemper symptoms to show in cats?
The incubation period, meaning the time it takes from exposure for a cat to show clinical signs, can be up to 14 days; however, it is typically closer to 3-7 days. Cats can shed the virus for 2-3 days prior to showing clinical signs.
How long does it take distemper to progress?
One to six weeks for the majority of cases with most showing signs within one to four weeks. When do dogs infected with distemper become contagious? Up to five days prior to the onset of clinical signs.
How long can a cat have distemper?
It rarely lasts longer than 12 weeks. Prevention is vital to your cat’s health.
Can a vaccinated cat get distemper?
Even though most cats are vaccinated against feline distemper, there is still a chance that your vaccinated cat could contract the disease.
How do you know if a cat has distemper?
Early symptoms of feline distemper infection are lethargy and loss of appetite then rapid progression to severe, sometimes bloody diarrhea and vomiting. These signs are very similar to other diseases, some serious, some not so serious.
Can a cat recover from distemper?
With aggressive therapy, many cats can make a full recovery, although the prognosis is guarded. Your veterinarian will recommend supportive therapy tailored to your cat’s needs and may include hospitalization, fluid therapy, antibiotics, medication for vomiting and diarrhea, and nutritional support.
How can you tell if a cat has distemper?
Can a 4 week old kitten get a distemper shot?
Precautions for the Feline Distemper Vaccine. A kitten that’s younger than 4 weeks of age should never be given a distemper vaccine, as his natural immune system is still developing. Cats that are pregnant should also not receive the shot, as doing so can abort her kittens.
What are the symptoms of distemper in a cat?
The Distemper Virus and Symptoms. The distemper virus is similar to canine parvovirus and causes a respiratory infection in felines that’s followed by a gastrointestinal infection.
When to give a dog a second distemper shot?
Some dogs may require a second distemper vaccine as puppies if maternal antibodies block the first one, but if a puppy is vaccinated after 12 to 16 weeks of age, he will most likely be protected, for life, with just one distemper vaccine.
Can you give a cat epinephrine before a distemper shot?
Some veterinary experts recommend giving a feline epinephrine prior to the shot, since some cats can have an anaphylactic shock or a false fever. Not all cats will have a negative reaction to the distemper vaccine. The slight chances of side effects from the vaccination outweigh the risks of a cat contracting the actual distemper virus.
