Are dogs the only ones who can get parvo?

Parvovirus, commonly referred to as parvo, is a highly contagious and potentially fatal disease that primarily affects dogs. It is caused by the canine parvovirus and typically attacks the gastrointestinal tract. While dogs are the primary hosts of canine parvovirus, it's important to note that other species can also be affected by different types of parvoviruses. Here's a list of some animals that can get parvovirus infections:

- Cats: Feline parvovirus is a separate strain that affects cats and can cause feline panleukopenia, which is a highly contagious and life-threatening disease in cats.

- Raccoons: Raccoons can carry a strain of parvovirus known as raccoon parvovirus, which can cause a similar disease to canine parvovirus in dogs, although it's less common.

- Mink: Mink can also be infected with a mink parvovirus, leading to mink enteritis, a disease affecting their gastrointestinal system.

- Pigs: Porcine parvovirus, also known as porcine circovirus, can cause reproductive problems and post-weaning multisystemic wasting syndrome in pigs.

- Cattle: Bovine parvovirus, also called bovine viral diarrhea (BVD), can cause a wide range of symptoms in cattle, including respiratory problems, diarrhea, and reproductive disorders.

- Sheep and Goats: Ovine and caprine parvoviruses can affect sheep and goats, respectively, leading to diseases such as ovine paratuberculosis and caprine arthritis encephalitis (CAE).

These different strains of parvovirus are usually species-specific, meaning that the canine parvovirus primarily infects dogs, the feline parvovirus affects cats, and so on. Each species has its unique parvovirus strain adapted to its biology, and transmission typically occurs within the same species. It is unlikely that dogs would directly transmit canine parvo to cats or other animal species.

In conclusion, while dogs are the primary hosts of canine parvovirus, other animals can be affected by different strains of parvovirus that are specific to their species. It's important to consult with a veterinarian if you suspect any animal is showing symptoms of parvo or other related infections to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.