Symptoms of Lyme Disease in Pets
Lyme disease is a bacterial infection carried and transmitted by the tiny deer tick. The ticks are so called because deer are hosts for the adult ticks. The bacteria associated with Lyme disease is called Borrelia burgdorferi. The ticks transmit the bacteria by attaching and biting mammals such as cats, dogs and other animals. The disease progresses in three stages and may affect various areas of the body at different times. The symptoms often vary according to the type of animal, and may vary according to the individual animal as well.
-
General Symptoms
-
Although some pets may show no symptoms, most animals share certain general symptoms such as lethargy, loss of appetite and fever. Joint pain, swelling and stiffness of the joints may also occur. The area of affected joints may feel warm to the touch.
Rash
-
One of the most characteristic symptoms of Lyme disease is a bull's eye type rash that may occur at the site of the bite or other area of the body. In animals the rash may go undetected due to dense fur coverage.
-
Lameness
-
Limpness may occur in an animal that is infected with Lyme disease. The pet may shift weight from leg to leg.
Behavioral Changes
-
Changes in behavior will occur in animals with Lyme disease. Dogs may display more aggressive behavior.
Stages
-
Lyme disease normally progresses in three stages. As the condition progresses, seizures may occur, especially in dogs. Cats may suddenly collapse. Other symptoms may occur, such as eye infections and difficulty swallowing.
Treatment
-
Left untreated, Lyme disease can affect the heart, kidneys and nervous system. Paralysis, blindness and/or respiratory failure can occur. Early diagnosis can prevent such complications, and early tick removal can prevent the disease. Lyme disease can be treated with antibiotics. Pets should be vaccinated for protection against Lyme disease.
Significance
-
Lyme disease occurs more often in dogs than cats, most likely due to the fact that cats are more likely to be indoor pets. Another interesting fact is that most horses that are infected with Lyme disease may not exhibit any symptoms.
-
Resources
- Photo Credit 123rf.com
