Fading Puppy Syndrome

What is it?

Fading puppy syndrome is a term for puppies that are apparently normal at birth but fade and die within the first two weeks. Newborn puppies cannot regulate their body temperature, fluid, or energy well, and their immune systems are immature, so many factors can contribute: poor mothering or a difficult delivery, poor or too little milk, not nursing enough or missing the first milk (colostrum), birth defects, low birth weight, infections (including parvovirus, adenovirus, and distemper), and parasites such as hookworms, fleas, and ticks.

What signs should I watch for?

Signs are vague and it is often too late once they are obvious. Watch for low birth weight or not gaining weight like littermates, less activity, inability to suckle, staying apart from the mother and litter, and a weak, high-pitched cry. These puppies can quickly become very lethargic and floppy.

How is it diagnosed and treated?

Keep the puppy warm and make sure it gets enough fluid. During the first four days, keep the puppies' area at 85 to 90°F, lowering it to about 80°F by days seven to ten; a heat lamp over the whelping box is usually enough. If bacterial infection develops, antibiotics may help, along with strict hygiene. If you are worried about a puppy, contact your veterinarian right away.

Can it be prevented, and what's the outlook?

• Have the mother examined right after birth for mastitis, metritis, or other illness, make sure puppies get colostrum, keep the mother's vaccinations current, and keep the area clean and warm.
• If a puppy dies, a necropsy can find the cause and help protect the rest of the litter.