Canine distemper

What is it?

Canine distemper is a serious and highly contagious viral disease that mainly affects dogs, but also ferrets. It attacks several systems of the body, including the respiratory, digestive and nervous systems. This disease can be fatal, especially in young, unvaccinated animals.

Commonly observed signs

These signs are neither exhaustive nor specific. Only a veterinarian can establish a diagnosis.

Causes and risk factors

The disease is caused by a virus called canine morbillivirus, which is close to the human measles virus. This virus attacks the animal's immune system, making it vulnerable to other infections. It spreads quickly in environments where many unvaccinated animals live.

Unvaccinated puppies and young animals are most vulnerable to this disease. Lack of vaccination, living in a community with other animals, and a weakened immune system also increase the risk of infection. Crowded environments like shelters also encourage the spread of the virus.

Transmission

The virus is mainly transmitted by air, through respiratory secretions of infected animals such as coughs or sneezes. Direct contact with a sick animal or contaminated objects can also promote contagion. Puppies and young ferrets are particularly exposed in collective places such as shelters or breeders.

Diagnosis and care

Diagnosis is the veterinarian's responsibility, based on clinical examination and laboratory tests. Care is decided case by case.

Prevention

References

MSD Veterinary Manual

WOAH — Organisation mondiale de la santé animale (ex-OIE)

Content reviewed by the TunisieVet editorial team · Updated 18 August 2026