Parvovirus (CPV-2) is a highly contagious, often fatal viral disease in dogs that attacks the gastrointestinal tract and bone marrow. It primarily affects unvaccinated puppies and young dogs. The hallmark signs are profuse, foul-smelling bloody diarrhoea and vomiting. Parvovirus is transmitted through contact with infected faeces and survives in the environment for months to years.
The parvovirus particle is uniquely resistant — it survives in the environment for up to a year or more and is resistant to most common household disinfectants. Only bleach at 1:30 dilution (or specific virucidal products) reliably destroys parvovirus on surfaces. This means contaminated areas (yards, kennels, parks) can remain infective long after an infected dog has passed through, and new puppies brought into a recently contaminated home face significant risk.
The incubation period is 3–7 days. Initial signs are lethargy, loss of appetite, and low-grade fever, followed rapidly by severe vomiting and haemorrhagic (bloody) diarrhoea that causes life-threatening dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. The virus also attacks bone marrow, causing immune suppression that leaves the dog vulnerable to secondary bacterial sepsis — this is often the direct cause of death.
Treatment is entirely supportive (there is no antiviral drug for parvovirus): intensive intravenous fluid therapy, antiemetics, antibiotics to prevent secondary infection, and nutritional support. With aggressive in-hospital care started early, survival rates reach 68–92%. Without treatment, the mortality rate approaches 91%. Vaccination is highly effective and is the only reliable prevention.
📌 Key Facts
Survival in environment: Up to 1+ year in soil
Effective disinfectant: 1:30 bleach dilution or specific virucidal products
Incubation: 3–7 days
Survival rate with treatment: 68–92% | Without treatment: ~9%
Frequently Asked Questions about Parvovirus
Q: My puppy has had one parvo vaccine — are they protected?
No, not fully. A puppy requires a complete series (typically at 8, 12, and 16 weeks) because maternal antibodies from their mother interfere with vaccine effectiveness during early weeks. A single dose before the series is complete provides partial protection at best. Keep puppies away from unvaccinated dogs and high-risk environments until the full series plus a 2-week window is complete.
Q: Can adult vaccinated dogs get parvovirus?
It is extremely rare. Core vaccine protocols include repeated boosters that maintain strong immunity. However, a dog that has lapsed significantly on boosters (years overdue) could theoretically become susceptible. Dogs that are immunosuppressed are also at higher risk regardless of vaccination history.
Q: Can my cat get parvovirus from my dog?
Dogs are infected by canine parvovirus (CPV-2); cats are infected by feline panleukopenia virus (FPV). These are closely related but separate strains. Some strains of CPV-2 can infect cats, but this is relatively uncommon. Cats are vaccinated against FPV as part of their core FVRCP vaccine.
⚠ Medical Disclaimer: This glossary entry is for educational purposes only
and does not constitute veterinary advice. Always consult a licensed veterinarian for diagnosis
and treatment of your pet's health conditions.