Canine Infectious Hepatitis (Adenovirus)

Canine Infectious Hepatitis (Adenovirus)

Species: Dog

Breeds Affected: All Breeds (puppies and unvaccinated dogs at highest risk)

Canine infectious hepatitis is a viral disease caused by canine adenovirus type-1 (CAV-1). It primarily attacks the liver and endothelial cells, leading to hepatitis and bleeding disorders. Young dogs are most at risk, though infection can range from mild to fatal. The virus spreads via urine, feces, or saliva of infected dogs. Vaccination with CAV-2 (cross-protective) has made this disease uncommon in vaccinated populations.

• Mild cases may show fever
• lethargy
• and loss of appetite. Severe cases (often in puppies) present with high fever
• depression
• abdominal pain
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• and jaundice (yellowing of gums/eyes) due to liver damage. “Blue eye” (cloudy cornea) can appear during recovery due to immune complexes. Severe infections can cause bleeding (petechiae or bruising) and swelling of the neck/head
• and may be rapidly fatal due to liver failure or bleeding.

As with most viral infections, there is no specific cure for canine hepatitis. Treatment is supportive and aimed at reducing symptoms and giving the immune system time to respond. Dogs are often hospitalized for IV fluid therapy to maintain hydration, and may receive blood transfusions if there is significant bleeding. Supportive care includes warming (if hypothermic), and managing hypoglycemia or clotting abnormalities as needed.

Supportive medications can include IV fluids (to support hydration and circulation), dextrose supplementation (for low blood sugar), and sometimes antibiotics to prevent secondary bacterial infections (though antibiotics don’t affect the virus itself). Pain relievers or anti-inflammatory drugs may be used cautiously to improve comfort. In cases of severe liver inflammation, medications like liver protectants (e.g. SAM-e, silymarin) might be given. Prevention via the DA2PP vaccine (which covers adenovirus) is the best protection.