One of the most common tick-transmitted diseases in the work is Lyme disease. Today, our vets in Lancaster discuss the effects of Lyme Disease in pets, including its symptoms and the treatment options available.
Lyme Disease
The bacteria borrella 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.
The Symptoms of Lyme Disease
The most common symptoms of Lyme disease in cats and dogs include general discomfort, lack of appetite, depression, malaise, and lameness as a result of inflamed joints.
You also need to look out for any signs of fever, sensitivity to touch, and difficulty breathing.
How Your Vet Diagnoses Lyme Disease
Call your vet to schedule an appointment if you believe your pet could have Lyme disease.
At the appointment, your veterinarian will ask you a handful of questions in order to get a good understanding of your pet's medical history, then conduct a range of tests including urine analysis, X-rays, blood tests, and a fecal exam. They might also draw fluid from your companion's affected joints, and analyze it for any signs of Lyme disease.
Treatments for Pets 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 pet especially uncomfortable.
How to Prevent Lyme Disease
Avoiding ticks as best as you can, will go a long way in preventing and controlling the disease. There are also sprays, vaccines, and monthly products available. However, most work best before your pet is exposed to the bacteria that cause Lyme disease.
Your vet might recommend getting the appropriate boosters and vaccines if you reside in an area where Lyme disease is often found. Remove any ticks you find on your cat or dog quickly to help prevent Lyme and other diseases from spreading. Though pets can infect people directly, cats and dogs can bring infected ticks into your home, which can then attach to another person or animal and transmit Lyme disease.