Parvovirus, commonly known as parvo, is a highly contagious virus that affects dogs, especially puppies. This virus can be deadly if not treated promptly. While it is commonly believed that parvo is specific to dogs, some pet owners wonder whether dogs can get parvo from cats.
In this article, we will examine whether dogs can contract parvo from cats and what pet owners should do to prevent their dogs from getting infected.
What Is Parvo?
Before delving into whether dogs can get parvo from cats, it is important to understand what parvo is. Parvo is a highly contagious virus that affects dogs’ gastrointestinal system, leading to severe vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, and even death.
Parvo is transmitted through direct contact with an infected dog or indirectly through contact with contaminated objects. The virus can survive in the environment for up to six months and can be transmitted by dogs that are not yet showing symptoms.
Can Dogs Get Parvo from Cats?
The simple answer to this question is no. Dogs cannot get parvo from cats. Parvo is specific to dogs, and cats cannot contract or transmit parvo to dogs. However, this does not mean that dogs are not at risk of contracting other diseases from cats.
For instance, cats can transmit diseases such as feline leukemia virus (FeLV) and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) to dogs. Therefore, it is important to ensure that dogs and cats are up-to-date with their vaccinations to prevent the spread of diseases.
Preventing Parvo in Dogs
While dogs cannot get parvo from cats, they are at risk of contracting the virus through contact with contaminated objects or infected dogs.
As such, pet owners should take the necessary precautions to prevent their dogs from getting infected. Here are some tips to prevent parvo in dogs:
1. Vaccinate your Dog
The best way to prevent parvo in dogs is to have them vaccinated. Puppies should receive a series of vaccinations starting at six to eight weeks of age, followed by booster shots every three to four weeks until they are 16 weeks old. Adult dogs should receive a booster shot annually.
2. Avoid Contact with Infected Dogs
Since parvo is highly contagious, it is important to avoid contact with infected dogs. If you suspect that your dog has been exposed to an infected dog, seek veterinary care immediately.
3. Clean and Disinfect Contaminated Objects
Parvo can survive in the environment for up to six months. Therefore, it is important to clean and disinfect objects that may have come into contact with an infected dog. Use a bleach solution or a disinfectant recommended by your veterinarian.
4. Avoid Public Places
Puppies that have not received all their vaccinations should avoid public places such as dog parks, pet stores, and grooming salons. These places are high-risk areas for parvo.
5. Practice Good Hygiene
Wash your hands thoroughly after handling dogs, especially those that are sick. Use gloves and dispose of them properly after use. Avoid petting or handling dogs that are not yours, especially if they look sick.
Conclusion
Dogs cannot get parvo from cats. Parvo is specific to dogs and cannot be transmitted to cats or humans. However, dogs are at risk of contracting the virus through contact with infected dogs or contaminated objects. Pet owners should take the necessary precautions to prevent their dogs from getting infected, such as vaccinating them, avoiding public places, practicing good hygiene, and seeking veterinary care immediately if they suspect their dog has been exposed to an infected dog.
If your dog is experiencing an emergency, Birmingham Animal Hospital + Resort can help. We are an emergency vet in Birmingham, AL that are ready to give your furry friend the care they need. Get in touch with us today to learn how.