Distemper in raccoons is caused by the canine distemper virus. The distemper virus is fatal and is closely related to the human measles virus. The virus is contagious and spreads easily among animals. A raccoon with distemper will display many signs associated with the rabies virus; it is not possible to tell the difference without viral testing. Infected raccoons may become suddenly aggressive and dangerous. If you notice signs of distemper in a raccoon, make sure to keep children and pets away.
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Respiratory Symptoms
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The first signs of canine distemper are in the respiratory system. The mucus membranes and respiratory tract show the first signs of distemper infection. If the raccoon is infected, the eyes and nose will have a lot of discharge. You may notice the eyelids crusted over, even unable to be fully opened. The raccoon may cough, have trouble breathing and have a fever.
Gastrointestinal Symptoms
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During the respiratory attack the distemper virus will attack the gastrointestinal system. The raccoon will begin to vomit, even if it is barely eating. The raccoon will have diarrhea. The loss of water from the vomiting and diarrhea will cause dehydration and weakness. You will notice the raccoon moving slowly and losing weight due to loss of appetite as the disease progresses. During the gastrointestinal phase the foot pads of the raccoon will become thick and hard.
Neurological Symptoms
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The distemper virus continues to the neurological system. Neurological symptoms are the most noticeable because the raccoon will often come out of hiding during this phase in the progression. The raccoon will wander aimlessly without its usual concern for concealment or protecting its young. If you see a raccoon out in the open during the day, there is probably something wrong with it. Distemper will cause seizures in the raccoon, usually starting in the jaw and moving on to full body seizures. The raccoon is mentally unstable during this phase and may suddenly become aggressive without warning or provocation.
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