Everything You Need to Know About Canine Hepatitis

🩺 What is Canine Hepatitis?

Canine hepatitis, also known as infectious canine hepatitis (ICH), is a highly contagious viral disease in dogs. It is caused by canine adenovirus type 1 (CAV-1). The virus primarily attacks the liver, causing inflammation and damage. It can also affect the kidneys, eyes, and blood vessels.

This disease can range in severity from mild to fatal, depending on the dog’s age, immune system, and the strain of the virus. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent canine hepatitis. Unvaccinated puppies are particularly vulnerable.

🦠 Causes of Canine Hepatitis

The primary cause of canine hepatitis is the canine adenovirus type 1 (CAV-1). This virus is highly contagious and spreads through various routes.

• Direct Contact: Infected dogs can transmit the virus through direct contact with other dogs.
• Indirect Contact: The virus can survive in the environment for extended periods. Dogs can become infected by coming into contact with contaminated surfaces, such as food bowls, bedding, or even soil.
• Bodily Fluids: The virus is present in the urine, feces, saliva, and nasal discharge of infected dogs. Exposure to these fluids can lead to infection.
• Ingestion: Ingesting contaminated food or water can also transmit the virus.

Dogs that recover from canine hepatitis can continue to shed the virus in their urine for up to six months. This prolonged shedding can contribute to the spread of the disease.

🚨 Symptoms of Canine Hepatitis

The symptoms of canine hepatitis can vary depending on the severity of the infection. Some dogs may show mild symptoms, while others can develop severe and life-threatening complications.

• Fever: A high fever is often one of the first signs of infection.
• Lethargy: Infected dogs may appear tired, weak, and less active than usual.
• Loss of Appetite: A decreased interest in food is a common symptom.
• Vomiting and Diarrhea: These gastrointestinal symptoms can lead to dehydration.
• Abdominal Pain: The liver inflammation can cause pain and tenderness in the abdomen.
• Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin, gums, and whites of the eyes is a sign of liver damage.
• Increased Thirst and Urination: Kidney involvement can lead to increased water intake and urine production.
• Bleeding Disorders: Canine hepatitis can affect blood clotting, leading to nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stool.
• Corneal Edema (Blue Eye): A bluish haze on the cornea of the eye is a characteristic symptom in some cases.
• Seizures: In severe cases, neurological signs such as seizures may occur.

If you observe any of these symptoms in your dog, it is crucial to seek veterinary attention immediately.

diagnosis Diagnosis of Canine Hepatitis

Diagnosing canine hepatitis requires a thorough examination by a veterinarian. Several diagnostic tests may be used to confirm the diagnosis.

• Physical Examination: The veterinarian will assess the dog’s overall health and look for signs of liver damage, such as jaundice or abdominal pain.
• Blood Tests: Blood tests can reveal elevated liver enzymes, which indicate liver inflammation or damage. They can also assess blood clotting ability and kidney function.
• Urine Analysis: Urine tests can help evaluate kidney function and detect the presence of bilirubin, a sign of liver disease.
• Serology: Serological tests can detect antibodies against CAV-1 in the dog’s blood. A positive result indicates that the dog has been exposed to the virus.
• PCR Testing: Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests can detect the presence of CAV-1 DNA in blood or tissue samples. This is a highly sensitive and specific test for canine hepatitis.
• Liver Biopsy: In some cases, a liver biopsy may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of liver damage.

The veterinarian will use the results of these tests, along with the dog’s clinical signs, to make a diagnosis.

treatment Treatment of Canine Hepatitis

There is no specific cure for canine hepatitis. Treatment focuses on supportive care to manage the symptoms and prevent complications. The goal is to help the dog’s body fight off the virus and recover.

• Fluid Therapy: Intravenous fluids are administered to correct dehydration caused by vomiting and diarrhea.
• Nutritional Support: A bland, easily digestible diet is recommended to reduce stress on the liver. In severe cases, a feeding tube may be necessary.
• Medications:
  • Anti-emetics: To control vomiting.
  • Antidiarrheals: To manage diarrhea.
  • Liver Protectants: Such as SAMe or milk thistle, to support liver function.
  • Antibiotics: To prevent secondary bacterial infections.
  • Blood Transfusions: In cases of severe bleeding disorders.
• Monitoring: Close monitoring of the dog’s liver and kidney function is essential.
• Isolation: Infected dogs should be isolated from other dogs to prevent the spread of the virus.

The prognosis for dogs with canine hepatitis depends on the severity of the infection and the dog’s overall health. With prompt and aggressive treatment, many dogs can recover. However, severe cases can be fatal.

prevention Prevention of Canine Hepatitis

Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent canine hepatitis. The canine adenovirus type 2 (CAV-2) vaccine provides cross-protection against CAV-1. This vaccine is a core vaccine, meaning it is recommended for all dogs.

• Vaccination Schedule: Puppies should receive a series of vaccinations starting at 6-8 weeks of age, with booster shots every 3-4 weeks until they are 16 weeks old. Adult dogs require booster vaccinations every 1-3 years, depending on the vaccine used and local regulations.
• Hygiene: Good hygiene practices can help prevent the spread of the virus. Regularly clean and disinfect food bowls, water bowls, and bedding.
• Avoid Contact: Avoid contact with unvaccinated dogs or dogs that show signs of illness.
• Quarantine: Quarantine new dogs before introducing them to your existing pets.

By following these preventive measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of your dog contracting canine hepatitis.