Some Experiments and Field Observations of Distemper in Mink and Ferrets

This chapter describes some observations on the occurrence of canine distemper (CD) on mink farms and experimental trials using mink and ferrets. Ferrets—because of their high susceptibility to canine distemper virus (CDV)—show an invariably fatal course, which makes them the most satisfactory animal for conducting many distemper experiments. Vaccination is the only suitable means for the control of mink and ferret distemper. Attenuated live CDV vaccines produce a more dependable, longer lasting immunity and have replaced inactivated vaccines for ranch-raised mink and pet ferrets. Present-day distemper vaccines for mink are inexpensive and effectively immunize susceptible mink, and they can be combined with other vaccines to protect against mink virus enteritis, botulism, and Pseudomonas infections. In the case of dogs, foxes, mink, and ferrets and perhaps all other Mustelidae, Canidae, and Procyonidae, maternal antibody is a double-edged sword protecting young animals from distemper and conversely blocking early chicken embryo propagated (CEP) vaccination.