Canine distemper and rabies are two serious infectious diseases in dogs. Although they share some similarities, they have significant differences in symptoms, treatment, and prevention.
★ Common Points
Source of Infection: Canine distemper is primarily transmitted through direct contact with infected animals or contaminated objects, while rabies is mainly spread through bites or scratches from infected animals.
Vaccine Prevention: Both diseases can be effectively prevented through vaccination. Regularly vaccinating pets is a key measure to protect against these illnesses.
★ Differences
• Definition
Canine Distemper: A highly contagious disease caused by the canine distemper virus, primarily affecting the respiratory, digestive, and nervous systems.
Rabies: An acute central nervous system infection caused by the rabies virus, classified as a zoonotic disease. It attacks the nervous system, leading to encephalitis and death.
• Symptoms
Canine Distemper:
Early symptoms: Fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, watery discharge from the eyes and nose, coughing, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Mid-stage symptoms: Recurring fever, coughing with purulent discharge, gastrointestinal issues, and severe depression.
Late-stage symptoms: Neurological signs such as foaming at the mouth, convulsions, and limb stiffness.
Rabies:
Early symptoms: Fever, headache, fatigue, discomfort, anxiety, or irritability.
Progressive symptoms: Confusion, difficulty swallowing, muscle spasms, and paralysis, eventually leading to hydrophobia (fear of water), photophobia (fear of light), and aerophobia (fear of air drafts).
• Treatment
Canine Distemper: Treatment is primarily supportive, including antiviral drugs, anti-inflammatory medications, immune-boosting drugs, and symptomatic care.
Rabies: Once symptoms appear, treatment is almost ineffective, making prevention critical. After a bite, immediate wound care and vaccination are essential.
• Prevention
Canine Distemper: Regularly vaccinate pets against canine distemper, avoid contact with other animals or wildlife, and maintain a clean, dry living environment.
Rabies: Avoid contact with potentially infected animals, ensure pets are vaccinated against rabies, and seek immediate wound treatment and vaccination after a bite.

The canine distemper and rabies diagnostic kits developed by Yaoshuoling use ELISA technology, enabling fast and convenient diagnosis of these diseases. This helps veterinarians and pet owners take early preventive measures and initiate timely treatment.