In this post, our Austin vets share information about Lyme disease in pets: what it is, symptoms to watch for and treatment options.
Lyme Disease in Dogs and Cats
Lyme disease is one of the most common tick-transmitted diseases in the world.
The bacteria borrelia is carried by deer ticks and causes infectious Lyme disease, which is transmitted when ticks feed on infected animals such as deer, birds, and mice. This infection is then passed to other animals when the infected tick bites them.
Signs and Symptoms of Lyme Disease
In our four-legged friends, common symptoms of Lyme disease may include anything from general discomfort or malaise to depression, lack of appetite, and lameness due to inflamed joints.
Also beware of any fever, difficulty breathing, or sensitivity to touch.
Diagnosing Lyme Disease
Schedule an appointment with your vet if you suspect your pet may have Lyme disease.
During the appointment, your vet will ask a number of questions to gain a detailed understanding of your pet's medical history, then complete a battery of tests including urinalysis, fecal exam, x-rays, and blood tests. Fluid may also be drawn from your pet's affected joints, then analyzed for signs of the disease.
Next Steps After Your Pet is Diagnosed with Lyme Disease
When diagnosed with Lyme disease, pets are usually treated on an outpatient basis. This will typically involve at least a four-week course of antibiotics, though your vet may also prescribe pain medication if the disease has made your dog especially uncomfortable.
Preventing Lyme Disease
Avoiding ticks as much as possible will go a long way to controlling and preventing disease. Sprays, monthly products, and vaccines are available, although many work best before dogs are exposed to the bacteria that cause Lyme disease.
Your vet may recommend appropriate boosters and vaccines if you live in an area where Lyme disease is common. You should promptly remove any ticks you find on your dog to help prevent Lyme and other diseases from spreading. Though dogs will not directly infect people, our pets may bring infected ticks into the house, which may then attach to another person or animal and transmit Lyme disease.