Infectious Canine Hepatitis: Causes, Symptoms & Prevention

Infectious canine hepatitis (ICH) is a rapid-onset, highly contagious viral disease affecting dogs of all ages and breeds. Caused by the canine adenovirus type 1 (CAV-1), this disease primarily targets the liver, but it can also involve the spleen, kidneys, lungs, and blood vessels, sometimes affecting other organs too.

While foxes can also carry and transmit ICH in the UK, in other countries, animals such as wolves, coyotes, or bears may be involved in spreading the virus. For UK dog owners, understanding this disease is essential as it can be severe, especially in young, unvaccinated dogs.

What is Infectious Canine Hepatitis?

ICH causes inflammation of the liver (hepatitis) and may lead to liver scarring, jaundice, bleeding disorders, and neurological signs like disorientation or changes in behaviour. The infection can also impact the kidneys, spleen, and lungs, causing widespread and painful illness. Although severe, some dogs with mild infections may recover as their immune system produces antibodies.

The virus responsible, canine adenovirus type 1, is a hardy DNA virus that remains infectious in the environment and spreads easily between dogs via bodily secretions.

How Does Your Dog Catch Infectious Canine Hepatitis?

The virus spreads mainly through oronasal contact with infected urine, faeces, saliva, or nasal discharge. Dogs may also contract the disease by contact with contaminated objects such as food bowls, water bowls, or toys. ICH is not airborne, but its high virulence means even indirect contact can transmit the virus.

When out walking, avoid communal water bowls and carry your own water and dish to prevent exposure. The incubation period typically ranges from 2 to 5 days but can extend up to 14 days.

Which Dogs are Most at Risk?

Unvaccinated dogs, especially puppies under one year old, are highly susceptible to ICH. Older dogs might experience milder symptoms or subclinical infections. Vaccination against canine adenovirus 1 is routine in the UK, so keeping your dog's immunisations and boosters current is the most effective protection.

Responsible dog ownership includes ensuring your dog is vaccinated according to veterinary recommendations and avoiding contact with unvaccinated or sick dogs.

Can People Catch Canine Hepatitis?

Infectious canine hepatitis is not zoonotic, which means it cannot be transmitted to people. However, humans can carry the virus on their clothing or skin after contact with an infected dog and pass it to other dogs inadvertently.

Preventing Infectious Canine Hepatitis

Vaccination remains the cornerstone of prevention, significantly reducing the incidence and spread of ICH. If your dog is diagnosed with ICH, isolate them and disinfect all toys, bedding, and equipment frequently to prevent spread.

Good hygiene practices and avoiding contact with infected dogs are equally important.

Recognise the Symptoms of Infectious Canine Hepatitis

Symptoms often develop quickly and vary in severity. Watch for:

• Vomiting and sickness
• Coughing and respiratory discharge
• Failure of small wounds to clot properly
• Cloudy eyes or "blue eye" due to corneal opacity
• Increased thirst and urination
• Loss of appetite
• Light-coloured faeces
• Abdominal pain or swelling
• Yellowing of the eyes and skin (jaundice)
• Fever
• Pale gums and tongue
• Sudden weight loss

How is Infectious Canine Hepatitis Diagnosed?

Your vet will perform blood tests, antibody assessments, and possibly advanced scanning techniques. Quick and accurate diagnosis enables timely treatment and better prognosis.

Treatment and Prognosis for Affected Dogs

No specific antiviral treatment exists for ICH. Treatment is supportive and may include intravenous fluids, close hospital monitoring, pain relief, and managing secondary infections with antibiotics. In severe cases, blood transfusions may be required.

Early veterinary intervention improves survival chances, especially in young or unvaccinated dogs. Mild cases might recover without extensive treatment, but prognosis worsens with delayed care or in puppies with weak immune systems.

Long-term immunity is usually provided after infection, but vaccination is safer and more reliable to protect your dog’s health.

Key Takeaway

Infectious canine hepatitis is a serious yet preventable disease that can be fatal without veterinary care. Keeping your dog’s vaccinations up to date protects them and the wider dog community. Always consult your vet promptly if you notice symptoms consistent with ICH to safeguard your beloved companion’s health.

Protect your dog today by ensuring they are vaccinated against infectious canine hepatitis and stay vigilant to the early signs of illness for the best outcomes.