Lyme disease is one of the most commonly transmitted diseases in ticks, and it's on the rise in our household pets. Join our veterinarians to learn more about what symptoms to watch for if you're concerned that your pet has or is at risk of contracting Lyme disease.
What is Lyme Disease?
Lyme is an infectious disease caused by a bacteria called Borrelia, most commonly carried by deer ticks, also known as black-legged ticks.
Infection occurs when an uninfected animal is bitten by an infected deer tick. These ticks become infected when they feed on other infected animals such as deer, birds, and mice. Cats, dogs, and humans can all become infected by Lyme disease.
What are the symptoms of Lyme disease?
The most common symptoms of Lyme disease in pets include general malaise or discomfort, and lameness caused by inflamed joints. Some pets also experience fever, breathing difficulties, depression, lack of appetite, and sensitivity to touch.
How can Lyme disease be diagnosed?
If you suspect your pet has Lyme disease, please take them to your primary veterinarian as soon as possible for diagnosis and treatment.
Your veterinarian will take a complete history of your pet's health, then run a series of tests including blood tests, urine analysis, a fecal exam, and X-rays to diagnose Lyme disease. Fluid from your pet's affected joints may also be drawn for testing.
If you know your pet has been bitten by a tick, be sure to save the tick for identification and monitor your pet for any symptoms. Depending on where you live, many species of ticks can cause a variety of illnesses in pets and people.
What happens if my pet is diagnosed with Lyme disease?
Treatment for Lyme disease in pets will include four or more weeks of antibiotics, If your pet is experiencing pain or discomfort, your vet may also prescribe an anti-inflammatory medication to help relieve joint pain.
Pets diagnosed with Lyme disease typically do not require hospitalization.
How can I prevent Lyme disease in my pets?
Avoiding ticks as much as possible will go a long way to controlling and preventing disease. Sprays and oral medications are available as tick preventive measures. These should be taken regularly to help protect your pet against a wide range of tick-borne illnesses.
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 pets 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.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.