The adenovirus can not only infect humans, but also our pets. Dogs and cats are both susceptible to the infection and it is important to know the signs and symptoms if you have a pet.

Adenovirus is a contagious DNA type virus that comes in two strains; Type 1 also known as CAV-1, and Type 2 also known as CAV-2. Type 1 is the more serious of the two strains as it can cause infection of major organs or even lead to Hepatitis. Type 1 specifically attacks the liver and causes it to hemorrhage, which will result in acute death from shock. While Type 2 which is the lesser of the two strains and can cause respiratory infections and lead to pneumonia if left untreated. This type is also the main culprit for what is known as 'kennel-cough' in dogs. Adenovirus commonly affects all types of mammals and birds, and also includes cats and dogs. The virus is more prone to non-vaccinated dogs, or transmitted by pets coming into contact with another animal that has the virus.

Symptoms Of Adenovirus Infection In Pets

The symptoms of an Adenovirus infection begin with a sore throat and coughing as the virus begins attacking the throat area. The mouth will have yellow mucus inside and surrounding the lining of the mouth. As the virus progresses, hemorrhaging will begin, with nose bleeds and small bruises all over the skin area. Some dogs can also develop a cloudy or blue-tint on the eyes. Further stages of the Adenovirus will start causing the liver and kidneys to fail and you will notice increased thirst, seizures, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Acute death is quickly to follow when the liver and kidneys begin to fail. If you suspect that your pet may be infected with the Adenovirus, get them to a veterinarian as soon as possible.

Treating A Pet With The Adenovirus

Treating an animal with Adenovirus is dependent upon how early the virus is detected. If the virus is discovered early enough, then simple visits to the veterinarian will be sufficient. If not, then inpatient care will be needed to help the animal get better. The veterinarian will use a fluid treatment to help keep your pet hydrated; this is due to a rapid loss of fluids through diarrhea and vomiting. They will also use a fresh blood treatment with antibodies which helps to provide extra doses of Potassium and Magnesium. This will help combat the virus's ability to not let wounds or open sores clot, in which they would bleed out. By providing fresh blood this will help the body heal faster and clot any open wounds caused from the virus. The final step is to provide a high protein and nitrogen meal as tolerated by the animal as the virus will severely degrade the animal’s ability to eat and maintain a healthy immune system. Food will help combat the virus with providing the body its needed protein and nitrogen supplements. Usually after five days of treatment there should be a successful recovery to follow, but this can vary depending on how strong the virus is and the animal’s immune system and age.

Once your pet has recovered from an Adenovirus infection the veterinarian will schedule visits to check fluid, electrolyte, acid-base, and coagulation status, and to adjust any prescribed medications. So it is important to stay on top of your animal’s recovery to ensure the animal will fully recover. Always make sure your pet receives it's full treatment of prescribed medication, even if the animal appears to be feeling better. The Adenovirus is a serious virus in humans and animals that can lead to many complications and can even cause hepatitis, so ensure your pet stays current on their vaccinations and check-ups to help prevent an Adenovirus infection.