What is Canine Hepatitis?
Infectious Canine Hepatitis (ICH) is a serious viral disease caused by Canine Adenovirus Type 1 (CAV-1). It affects the liver, kidneys, eyes, and lungs of dogs. The illness can develop rapidly — in severe cases, dogs may die within hours of showing symptoms.
Which Dogs are Most at Risk of Canine Hepatitis?
Dogs are most commonly affected by canine hepatitis during their first year of life, but unvaccinated dogs of any age are at risk. Puppies and young dogs with immature immune systems are particularly vulnerable to infection.
How is Canine Hepatitis Spread?
The virus spreads through direct contact with infected urine, saliva, or faeces. Even after recovery, dogs can remain infectious for over six months, shedding the virus and posing a risk to others.
The Canine Hepatitis virus is tough and can survive for months in the environment, especially under cool, shaded conditions. This makes hygiene and vaccination crucial in preventing outbreaks.
What Causes Canine Hepatitis?
Canine Hepatitis is caused by Canine Adenovirus Type 1 (CAV-1), a virus found worldwide that can infect most canine species. While some animals carry the virus without becoming seriously ill, domestic dogs are particularly susceptible to its effects.
Symptoms of Canine Hepatitis in Dogs
After an incubation period of 4–7 days, dogs may begin to show a range of symptoms, including:
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Loss of appetite
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Fever
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Pale gums
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Conjunctivitis (inflammation of the eyes)
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Coughing
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Abdominal pain
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Vomiting and diarrhoea
In some cases, jaundice may develop as a result of liver damage. Dogs that recover may also experience temporary cloudiness in the eyes, known as ‘blue eye’, which usually resolves over time.
Unfortunately, the disease can progress very rapidly, and some dogs may die suddenly before clinical signs appear.
Treatment for Infectious Canine Hepatitis
There is no specific cure for Infectious Canine Hepatitis. Treatment focuses on supportive care and managing complications:
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Intravenous fluids (often with glucose) to correct dehydration and energy loss
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Antibiotics to prevent secondary bacterial infections
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Blood transfusions, in severe cases, to manage bleeding caused by coagulopathy
Despite treatment, 10–30% of affected dogs may die, with puppies being at the highest risk.
How to Prevent and Control Canine Hepatitis
The most effective protection against canine hepatitis is regular vaccination.
Some modern vaccines offer a three-year duration of immunity, providing long-term protection against CAV-1.
Ensuring your dog is up to date with their annual health checks and vaccination schedule is essential to maintain strong immunity and prevent the spread of disease.
Canine Hepatitis is preventable through vaccination. Regular vet visits, good hygiene, and awareness of the symptoms are vital for keeping your dog safe and healthy. Speak to your vet about vaccination options and ongoing protection for your pet.