Infectious Disease

General Information

Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is a common cause of abnormally low numbers of red blood cells (anemia) in cats. As many as 70% of cats with anemia test positive for FeLV.

While FeLV causes more than one kind of anemia, non-regenerative anemia is probably the most serious. In this type of anemia, the virus destroys the parent cells of red blood cells, and new red blood cells are not produced. The life span of a normal feline red blood cell is about 75 days. As these cells die of old age, the absence of new cell production results in progressive anemia.

Non-regenerative anemia frequently occurs in relatively young (2- to 3-year-old) cats. While occasionally a cat with FeLV-induced non-regenerative anemia recovers, treatment is usually not curative. However, prompt, aggressive therapy can often extend life and improve patient comfort.

General Information

Babesiosis is a protozoan disease of dogs and cats spread by ticks. It has not been reported in cats common to North America. There are several varieties of Babesia; only three varieties infect the domestic dog and four varieties infect cats.

Anemia (blood loss), the primary sign of infection, may range from no outward signs to severe and even fatal anemia caused by the destruction of the red blood cells. The Babesia organism can show up in the bloodstream 1 to 2 days after infection, then disappear for 10 to 14 days before recurring within the red blood cells. It can also spread to the fetuses of an infected mother. Some dogs may be carriers and not show outward signs of illness unless stress causes the infection to flare up and produces visible signs of illness. Infections can recur because immunity does not result from the initial infection. Owners cannot contract the disease directly from their pets.

Important Points in Treatment

1. Laboratory tests are required to confirm the diagnosis and to evaluate the physical condition of the patient. Repeated tests are also required to monitor the response to treatment.
2. Blood transfusions are often required in severe cases for life-saving purposes.
3. Medication: Drugs are available to eliminate the disease. Most of the problems arise from the results of rapidly developing anemia.

General Information

Blastomycosis is a serious fungal disease of dogs, cats, and other animals, including people. The fungus is found in nature in soil, on vegetation, and in pigeon droppings. It is unlikely for it to be transmitted from pets to people unless the fungal forms are passed from an open, running sore of the pet to an open wound of a person. The fungus can exist in two forms: the yeast form found in tissue infections and the mycelial form found in respiratory tissues. Three forms of illness occur the lung or respiratory form, a form that is disseminated or spread throughout the body, and the skin form.

Blastomycosis is contracted by an animal by inhaling the mycelial form or by direct penetration of the spore form into an open skin sore. Illness typically develops 5 to 12 weeks after infection. The fungus may invade any part of the body, including the brain, bones, and eyes.

One of the most common ways to diagnose blastomycosis is by impression smears, using special stains, and microscopic examination of material from open skin sores of the animal.

Important Points in Treatment

1. Blood tests, microscopic studies, cultures, radiographs (x-rays), and special serologic tests are used to confirm the diagnosis.
2. Specific antifungal agents are available to treat the disease, but they can cause a toxic reaction in some animals. Hospitalization is generally recommended for treatment because the drug is usually given directly into the vein and the patient requires monitoring for signs of early reaction to the drug.
3. The prognosis (medical forecast) varies, depending on the location of the primary infection and the sex of the patient (females generally respond better than males). Most deaths occur in the first week of treatment.
4. Over 60% of treated animals recover. As with any other disease, the sooner treatment is started, the better the chances of survival.

Animals Affected – Dog, Cat, Bird, Rodent

(Lyme Disease)

General Information

Borreliosis, also known as Lyme disease, can affect dogs, cats, horses, cattle, birds, wild animals, and people. White-tailed deer and white-footed mice appear to be natural carriers of the causative organism, Borrelia burgdorferi, a corkscrew-shaped bacterium. The organism is usually transmitted by the pinhead-sized, dark brown nymphs of deer ticks. Other types of ticks may also transmit the disease.

After the larva hatches from the tick egg, the young tick attaches to small rodents, such as the white-footed mouse. As it feeds on the mouse’s blood, the larva becomes infected with the Borrelia organism. The larva matures into a nymph, which feeds on the blood of animals and people. The Borrelia organism is not injected into the host animal until the tick has been attached for 10 to 24 hours. Although adult ticks can also spread the disease, the nymph stage poses the greatest threat during the summer months because of its very small size.

Signs of Lyme disease are vague and resemble those of various other conditions. Initial signs include a rash, fever, joint swelling and pain, and swollen lymph nodes. Within days, weeks, or even months, more serious signs develop, such as heart, brain, and joint disorders. Painful joint swelling is the most common advanced sign.

A person is unlikely to contract the disease from a pet unless he were to remove an unattached tick from the pet and allow the tick to feed on him. The Borrelia organism has been found in the urine of infected animals, but the disease has never been proven to be spread via urine.

Important Points in Treatment

1. The response to treatment depends on your pet’s general health and resistance to disease.
2. Treatment may require weeks.

Prevention of Borreliosis
Protect yourself: For walks in the woods, fields, or meadows during the tick season, protect yourself from tick infestation by wearing clothing that prevents ticks from gaining access to your skin. Wear a hat to protect your head.

Close inspection: Always closely inspect your pet and yourself after walking in the woods, fields, or meadows. If you detect any ticks, do not crush the tick’s body during removal. Rather, use tweezers or forceps to grasp the tick’s head as close to your pet’s skin as possible and gently remove the tick to avoid separation of the tick’s head from its body.

Insecticide use: Use insecticides and repellents to control tick infestation on your pet. Ask the doctor to recommend a product.

Animals Affected – Dog

General Information

Brucellosis is caused by the bacterium Brucella canis. The disease spreads from one dog to another during breeding or oral contact with vaginal discharges, aborted fetuses and placentas, semen, or urine. It occurs most frequently in breeding kennels, although family pets may become infected also.

Pregnant females with brucellosis abort their puppies, while nonpregnant bitches may fail to conceive when bred. Males develop swelling of the testicles and usually become sterile. Many dogs appear to be in excellent health and show no signs of infection but are capable of spreading the disease.

Diagnosis is by blood culture and/or blood testing. Testing of more than one blood sample is usually required.

Public Health Significance
Brucellosis can affect people, although the chance of infection appears to be remote. Have your physician contact your veterinarian.

Important Points in Treatment

1. Brucella germs are very difficult to eliminate, and the disease frequently recurs despite antibiotic therapy. Infected dogs are considered to be life-long carriers of the disease.
2. Infected dogs should not be used for breeding, and they should be neutered before starting treatment. Infected dogs should not be kept in the breeding kennel population.

General Information

Feline calicivirus causes mild to serious respiratory illness. Cats become infected by inhaling or swallowing the virus, and signs of illness may develop within 2 to 10 days of exposure. Early signs include runny eyes and nose, sneezing, depression, and poor appetite. Ulcers may develop on the tongue and hard palate, and most infected cats drool heavily. The illness lasts 1 to 4 weeks. Though most cats recover, fatalities do occur. Young kittens are most likely to be severely affected. Some cats that recover from the initial disease may continue to shed the virus for weeks or even years.

A vaccine is available for the prevention of calicivirus infection.

Important Points in Treatment

1.  Drugs cannot eliminate the calicivirus. Treatment is designed to prevent bacterial infections (especially pneumonia), relieve signs, and maintain hydration and nutrition.
2. Severely affected cats and kittens must be treated in the hospital, where intravenous fluids can be given to maintain hydration and provide nutrition.
3. The virus is hardy and may survive outside the cat on dishes, pans, etc., for 8 to 10 days.

General Information

Campylobacteriosis is an intestinal disease of people and animals, including birds, and is spread via contaminated food and water. The causative bacterium, Campylobacter jejuni, is found worldwide.

Watery, bloody diarrhea and vomiting are common signs in infected people and animals. The bacterium may be transmitted back and forth between the pet and owner.

It takes 1 to 10 days for signs of illness to develop after the bacteria are ingested. The disease may last 7 to 10 days, but untreated pets may shed the bacteria in the feces for 1 to 4 months, and people may pass it for 2 to 7 weeks. Outside the body, the bacteria may remain alive in infected feces, water, and milk for approximately 1 month, depending on conditions. It has been reported to cause about 10% of all diarrheal illnesses in people.

Important Points in Treatment

1. The disease can usually be cured, especially if no other serious, underlying disorder exists in your pet. Supportive treatment, including fluids, may be required if dehydration is evident.
2. Special laboratory tests are required to determine if your pet has the disease. Other conditions may be ruled out by a process of elimination and assumed diagnoses of campylobacteriosis may be made on the basis of signs and response to medication.
3. Prevention is the best approach. Feed properly processed foods and noncontaminated water. Do not leave moist foods in temperatures 41°  to 140° F for more than a total of 3 hours (moist, high-protein foods support bacterial growth more readily than dry foods).
4. Practice good hygiene, including washing hands before preparing food for people or animals. Be especially vigilant of children’s hands after playing with pets.
5. The bacteria may be passed for several weeks by way of feces in untreated pets and people.

Animals Affected -- Cat

General Information

Chlamydia psittaci is a microscopic organism resembling a bacterium. The various strains of Chlamydia may infect a certain species of animal, including people. One strain infects birds and people, another strain infects cats and people, but none infects dogs.

Chlamydial conjunctivitis appears as swollen, congested, reddened tissue surrounding the clear, unaffected cornea. Small blisters (follicles) may develop on the conjunctiva. Typically one eye becomes infected, and then the other eye 10 to 20 days later.

The disease is spread by direct contact with the discharge from the eyes; therefore, always wash your hands after handling or treating infected cats.

Other cats in the household should be separated, if at all possible, especially during the early stages of the disease. Some individuals are more likely to contract the disease than others because of differences in natural resistance.

Important Points in Treatment

1. Laboratory tests, such as conjunctival scrapings, are used to confirm the diagnosis in the early stages of the disease. In later stages, the conjunctival scrapings usually do not reveal the specific inclusion bodies (elements that may be visualized in the affected cells that are characteristic of Chlamydia). Even though the scrapings are negative, they still have value by revealing other information that is helpful in managing your pet’s disorder.
2. Gently wipe the eyes with moist tissue or cotton to remove excess drainage and mucus. Added eye lubrication with artificial tears is helpful if the mucous membranes (conjunctiva) remain very red and irritated. Wash your hands after treating your cat.
3. Some cats may become carriers of the disease, and under stressful conditions, it may recur.

Animals Affected - Cat

General Information
Chronic rhinitis is a long-standing inflammation of the lining of the nasal passages. It can develop in cats of all ages and frequently follows a mild infection of the upper respiratory system. Other causes of chronic rhinitis include viruses, fungi, irritating fumes or vapors, and allergies.

Important Points in Treatment

1. Chronic rhinitis may be very difficult to treat. In some cases, medication may be required for months. Occasionally surgical drainage of the sinuses is necessary.

General Information

Coccidioidomycosis is a disease of animals and people caused by the fungus Coccidioides immitis. The fungus is most often found in desert soil and is most apt to spread in the dry, dusty season. It infects its victims by being inhaled into the lungs. It may be contained to the lungs (called the primary pulmonary form) by the body’s defenses or it may spread (called the disseminated form) from the lungs to the bones, heart, eyes, lymph nodes, reproductive organs, and skin. The skin lesions show up as nodules (bumps) with draining openings. Although inhaling the fungus is the common method of catching the disease, the discharge from wounds may also be a threat. If the discharge is left to collect on the bandage for an extended period, the fungus in the dried discharge could be inhaled. Therefore, changing bandages often enough to prevent accumulation of discharge on the bandage can decrease the danger to people.

The disease is treatable, but generally one can expect reasonably good results only in uncomplicated, early cases. The final outcome depends on the amount of damage caused by the fungus, the willingness of the owner to provide the time and effort in medicating the pet, and the pet’s own individual response and resistance to infection.

Important Points in Treatment

1. Laboratory tests, including complete blood counts, serum chemistry profiles, cultures, and radiographs (x-rays), provide an overview of your pet’s organ system and general physical condition. It is important for certain tests to be repeated at intervals to monitor the response to treatment.
2. Treatment may be required for extended periods because the disease may recur after treatment is stopped.
3. There is little or no risk of direct transmission of the disease from your pet to people unless bandages are not changed frequently.

Animals Affected – Cat

(Feline Infectious Peritonitis, Coronavirus Enteritis)

General Information

Feline coronaviruses include those that cause feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) and those that cause only a mild intestinal disease (coronavirus enteritis). The viruses are not the same, but they cannot be differentiated by the current blood test. A positive blood test will alert the doctor to the possibility of these diseases, and a negative test will help rule them out. Blood tests have value in the overall diagnosis and treatment of your pet’s illness.

Feline infectious peritonitis is relatively uncommon and generally fatal. It occurs primarily in cats between 6 months and 5 years of age. Two forms of FIP occur: a disease of the lining of the abdominal and/or chest cavities, in which massive fluid accumulations occur (“wet” FIP); and a disease of various organs, such as the lymph nodes, kidneys, eyes, and brain (“dry” FIP).

Feline enteric coronaviruses cause mild intestinal disease in kittens up to 12 weeks. The infection is common and probably exists in most homes with more than one cat. It may recur throughout the cat’s life but is rarely serious.

Prevention

1. Currently, vaccines are not available for the prevention of feline coronavirus infection.
2. Premises, where FIP-affected cats have been kept, should be treated with a disinfectant and left cat-free for some time. Your veterinarian will make specific recommendations.

Important Points in Treatment

1. The prognosis for cats with FIP is poor. Most authorities consider the disease incurable. Treatment may ease your cat’s discomfort and prolong life for a short time.
2. Medication: Home care for FIP consists of providing a warm, quiet environment, administering the medication as directed, and carrying out forced feeding if necessary. The doctor will explain these procedures.
3. The prognosis for cats with coronavirus enteritis is excellent. It is a self-limiting, mild diarrheal disease.
4. Diet: Treatment for coronavirus enteritis consists of withholding food during the more severe stages. Your veterinarian will advise you if fluids should be given to avoid dehydration.

Animals Affected – Dog

General Information

Canine coronavirus (CCV) affects the intestinal tract of dogs. The length of time between swallowing the virus and showing signs of illness is 1 to 5 days. Signs include depression, vomiting, and diarrhea.  Some dogs show no signs at all. The illness may continue for 2 to 10 days.

CCV is transmitted through feces, and dogs may shed the virus for 2 weeks after signs of infection have ended. Dogs that have recovered develop some immunity, but the duration of immunity is unknown.

A vaccine is available for the prevention of CCV infection. Annual booster vaccinations are no longer recommended because the disease is not too severe. The vaccine is very useful for breeding kennels and animal control situations.

Important Points in Treatment

1. Treatment varies according to the severity of the disease and the age and condition of your pet. Intravenous fluid therapy and hospitalization are often required because dehydration readily occurs in this illness.
   has diarrhea.
   • Your dog becomes weak and depressed.

General Information

Cryptococcosis is a disease of people and animals caused by a yeast (a type of fungus) called Cryptococcus neoformans. It is found throughout the world in soil and bird droppings and is consistently found in old pigeon nests. It infects cats more so than dogs, and it gains entrance to the body by being inhaled into the lungs. From the lungs, it can spread to other parts of the body, such as the brain, eyes, sinuses, and skin, via the blood or lymph system. It causes open festering skin sores in the form of nodules.

The brain form of the infection is much more serious and harder to cure, and the chances of recovery are poor. It can cause convulsions and even death. The sinus, nose, and skin forms of the infection are treatable, and the cure rate is fair to good.

Important Points in Treatment

1. Laboratory tests, including complete blood counts, serum chemistry profiles, cultures, and radiographs (x-rays), provide an overview of your pet’s organ system and general physical condition. It is important for some of these tests to be repeated at certain intervals to help guide your pet’s therapy.
2. Treatment is generally for long periods; 6 to 10 weeks is common.
3. The disease is not directly transmitted from animal to animal or from animals to people.

Animals Affected – Dog, Cat, Rodent

General Information

Distemper is a highly contagious disease in dogs, wolves, coyotes, raccoons, mink, and ferrets. It is caused by a virus that is easily spread through the air and by contaminated objects, much like the cold virus spreads in people.

Although the disease occurs more often in young dogs, those of any age may contract distemper. This is especially true of animals under stress or those that are relatively isolated from other dogs.

Signs range from those of mild respiratory problems, such as runny eyes and nose, to severe diarrhea, vomiting, and seizures. Many recovered dogs are left with uncontrollable muscle or limb jerking and/or periodic convulsions.

Vaccination is the best means of preventing canine distemper. All dogs should be vaccinated yearly or have titers checked for this disease.

Important Points in Treatment

1. Distemper is a serious disease that is often fatal. Currently, we have no drugs to destroy the virus. Treatment is aimed at supporting general health and preventing bacterial infections. In many cases, hospital treatment is necessary.

Animals Affected – Dog

General Information

Ehrlichiosis is a blood disorder caused by blood cell parasites called rickettsiae. Of the four different rickettsiae that can cause the disease, Ehrlichia canis is the most common.

Dogs are infected when they are bitten by ticks carrying the rickettsiae or when they receive transfusions of blood contaminated with the rickettsiae. Signs of ehrlichiosis develop within 8 to 20 days.

The acute or early phase of the disease lasts 4 to 6 weeks and is characterized by such signs as weight loss, fever, depression, discharge from the eyes and nose, respiratory problems, and enlarged lymph nodes. Many dogs recover after this stage of the disease. In other dogs, the infection becomes subclinical, lasting months or years. Stress or treatment with various drugs in these dogs may result in severe clinical signs of ehrlichiosis.

Dogs with a mild form of ehrlichiosis may become chronically infected and show depression, weight loss, hemorrhage, fever, and various other organ problems.

Ehrlichiosis is diagnosed by blood tests. The disease is prevented by controlling the tick infestation of the dog.

Important Points in Treatment

1.  Ehrlichiosis usually can be treated, regardless of the stage of infection. However, the earlier the disease is detected, the more rapid is recovery. Chronically infected dogs may require treatment for several months. Dogs with severe anemia or hemorrhage may require blood transfusions.
2. Repeated blood tests are required during the treatment period.

Animals Affected – Cat

General Information

Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) is strikingly similar to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) that causes AIDS. FIV is found in most parts of the world and studies have found antibodies against the virus from serum samples dating to the late 1960s. The virus is present in the saliva and infected cats spread the disease by biting. FIV does not spread to kittens while they are in the uterus but, rather, through the milk when they begin to nurse. Not every kitten in the litter will become infected. Although any cat may become infected, FIV is most common in male free-roaming cats that fight.

Infection with the FIV virus is divided into three stages: acute, subclinical, and chronic clinical stage. The acute stage lasts 3 to 6 months and is characterized by mild illness. Intermittent short episodes of lethargy decreased appetite, and fever is typical. Often this stage goes unnoticed.

The subclinical stage lasts from months to years. Affected cats appear healthy but their immune system continues to deteriorate. In the chronic clinical stage, the deterioration of the immune system predisposes infected cats to a variety of disorders. Chronic mouth infections, respiratory infections, intestinal diseases, fungal diseases, eye diseases, diseases of the nervous system, cancers, and leukemia are common. Near the end of the disease, many cats develop a wasting syndrome and lose 20% to 30% of their body weight over a period of several weeks. With FIV infection, the average time from diagnosis to death is 5 years.

FIV cannot infect people or dogs, and owners of FIV-infected cats have no cause for alarm.

Important Points in Treatment

1. Currently, there is no effective treatment for FIV infection. Therapy is supportive and/or specific for other infections.
2. As the disease is only spread by bites, infected cats are only a threat to cats they might fight with. Transmission through food pans, litter pans, or grooming is unlikely.
3. Limiting exposure to other cats is important. Because of the dysfunction of the immune system, infected cats are more likely to catch other diseases if they have contact

Animals Affected – Cat

(Feline Coronavirus Infection)

General Information

Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) is a serious disease of cats caused by a type of virus called coronavirus. The virus spreads from cat to cat via feces, urine, or secretions of the nose and mouth and is either inhaled or ingested. While cats of all ages are susceptible, cats from 6 to 12 months old and those over 14 years old are more susceptible than cats 5 to 13 years old. Queens may infect their kittens while in the womb or during the nursing period. Purebred cats seem to be more at risk than the common domestic cat.

FIP occurs in two distinct forms: the “wet” form, characterized by massive accumulations of fluid in the abdominal and/or chest cavity; and the “dry” form, characterized by inflammatory disease of the nervous system, various organs, and/or the eyes.

The prognosis (medical forecast) for cats with FIP is poor as there is no effective treatment to eliminate the virus. Treatment is designed to increase patient comfort and improve the quality of life for as long as practical. In some cases, treatment relieves clinical signs for a short time.

Animals Affected – Cat

General Information

Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is one of the most common and destructive of all cat viruses. It is highly contagious and is spread primarily by saliva during cat fights or mating. In cats living in close contact for long periods, the virus may spread through grooming of one another. The virus may also spread by contact with infected blood and urine. Kittens may become infected while still in the womb, at birth when the mother bites off the umbilical cord, or during nursing.

Not all cats exposed to FeLV become permanently infected. In about 60% of exposed cats, the immune system destroys or inactivates the invading virus. Approximately 30% of exposed cats become persistently infected, and in 10% the virus becomes dormant (inactive) in some areas of the body. In this last group, the virus may later become active if the cat is given certain drugs, is severely stressed, or develops another disease.

Of the cats that become persistently infected (30%), about 50% die within 6 months of diagnosis, and 80% die within 3 years. While the remaining 20% may live a normal lifespan, they tend to suffer a variety of chronic illnesses.

Illness
There is no single group of signs characteristic of FeLV infection. The virus tends to damage the body in one of three ways: an uncontrolled increase of virus-altered body cells that causes tumors or leukemia of the red, white, or bone marrow cells; destruction of a parent or immature blood cells that results in severely decreased numbers of the cells essential for blood clotting or red or white blood cells; or dysfunction of the immune system, resulting in life-threatening infections.

Diseases commonly associated with FeLV infection include anemia, cancer, chronic respiratory disease, chronic infection of the mouth and gums, chronic eye disease, chronic skin disease, urinary tract infections, chronic digestive tract disorders, reproductive diseases (abortions, stillbirths, kitten deaths) and other systemic diseases, such as feline infectious peritonitis, feline immunodeficiency virus infection, and toxoplasmosis.

Prevention
Vaccination before exposure to the virus is the best means of preventing FeLV infection. Without vaccination, isolation from other cats is the only means of prevention.

Important Points in Treatment

• Infected cats are at high risk for developing cancer or other life-threatening disease.
• While outdoor cats are at high risk for developing FeLV infection, indoor cats are at low risk.
• There is no uniformly effective treatment for cats infected with FeLV.

Animals Affected – Cat

General Information

The feline leukemia virus (FeLV) and its associated diseases are the foremost infectious cause of illness and death in cats. About 80% of persistently infected cats die within 3 years of becoming infected. Although some infected cats may live a normal lifespan, nearly all are plagued with recurring illnesses.

Currently, there are no drugs available that uniformly destroy the virus in infected cats; therefore, treatment is directed at relieving clinical signs, promoting a sense of well-being, and preventing the spread of the virus to other cats.

Although various methods to rid the FeLV-infected cat of the virus have been tried, none have been highly successful. Approaches to therapy have included anti-viral drugs, interferon, biological response modifiers, antibody therapy, and even bone marrow transplants. Your doctor will discuss the types of treatment available for your cat and the expected results.

Important Points in Treatment

1.  Medication: Give all medication as directed. Call the doctor if you are unable to administer the medication as directed.
2. Blood tests: Periodic monitoring of your pet is necessary to assess your pet’s health status and evaluate the response to treatment.

Animals Affected – Dog

General Information

Canine herpesvirus (CHV) infection is a contagious disease caused by a strain of herpesvirus that is related to, but different from, the strains that infect people.

Adult dogs may carry the virus in the lining of the nose, throat, lungs, and genital tract without showing signs of illness unless they are stressed by illness or injury. Puppies become infected while still in the uterus, during birth, or from secretions of the mother or other infected puppies. Infected puppies under 10 days of age usually die. Puppies over 3 weeks of age may contract CHV but their illness is much less severe and usually appears as a mild respiratory infection. These puppies can shed the virus in their secretions for about 3 weeks after recovery.

People are not susceptible to CHV infection.

Important Points in Treatment

1. Isolation of the affected dam and puppies and strict hygiene is essential to prevent infection of healthy puppies.
2. Little can be done for infected puppies under 3 weeks of age. Using heat lamps or a heated whelping box to maintain a rectal temperature of 100 to 102° F may reduce virus multiplication.
3. Older infected puppies and adult dogs seldom require treatment.
4. Forced feeding of infected puppies may be helpful. The doctor will demonstrate how to tube-feed puppies if you wish to try this procedure.

Animals Affected – Dog, Cat

General Information

Histoplasmosis is a disease of people and animals caused by a fungus called Histoplasma capsulatum. This fungus can exist in two forms (dimorphism). One form is a molding phase capable of floating in the air, and the second form is a yeast phase that is capable of surviving and multiplying in body tissue. It is as common in dogs as in cats. Although they may show similar signs, cats most often show signs of breathing difficulty, whereas dogs usually show intestinal disorders accompanied by diarrhea.

Animals contract histoplasmosis by breathing the mold into their lungs (primary pulmonary stage). The organisms remain in the lungs until destroyed by body defenses and treatment or until they overwhelm the body. From the lungs, the disease may spread (disseminated stage) to any other tissue, such as the bones, kidneys, liver, spleen, lymph nodes, and eyes via the blood and lymph system. It may cause fever, anemia, depression, and weight loss. Animals with the disseminated form have little or no chance of surviving. However, if the disease remains in the primary pulmonary stage, your pet has a better chance of surviving, depending on its individual resistance and state of health.

People cannot contract histoplasmosis by direct contact with infected pets.

Important Points in Treatment

1. Diagnostic tests, including complete blood counts, serum chemistry profiles, cultures, cytology, and radiographs (x-rays), provide an overview of your pet’s organ systems and general physical condition. It is important for some tests to be repeated at certain intervals to help guide your pet’s therapy.
2. Treatment may extend for several weeks.

Animals Affected – Dog

General Information

Infectious canine hepatitis (ICH) is a serious viral disease that affects the liver, kidneys, lymph nodes, eyes, and other organs.

Nearly all dogs are exposed to the ICH virus at some time during their lives, but not all dogs become gravely ill. The disease may be so mild that it passes unnoticed or may be so severe that death occurs within a few hours of the first signs of illness.

Signs of ICH develop about a week after exposure to the virus. High fever, loss of appetite, increased thirst, tonsillitis, and reddening of the lining of the mouth, throat, and eyelids may occur. In some cases, there is bloody diarrhea. The virus may be present in any body secretion and may be present in the urine for up to 6 to 9 months after apparent recovery. A bluish cast to the eye may occur during the recovery period.

A highly effective vaccine is available to prevent ICH. All dogs should be immunized yearly. People are not susceptible to ICH.

Important Points in Treatment
1. Hospitalization is required for initial treatment. Intravenous fluids and other intensive measures are often necessary. Various blood and laboratory tests are necessary to evaluate the response to treatment.

Animals Affected – Dog, Cat, Rodent

General Information
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) represents a group of stomach and intestinal disorders now considered to be one of the most common causes of vomiting and diarrhea in cats. The cause is unknown, but different types of IBD all demonstrate an abundance of inflammatory cells in the lining (mucosa) of the digestive tract.

The presence of inflammatory cells in this disease suggests that the cause is an allergic-type reaction. Inflammatory cells are special cells that appear and participate in the body’s response to an irritant. The inflammatory response may benefit the body or it may be harmful in some cases. We can control the disease better than we can actually cure it.

The types of IBD are named after the inflammatory cell types associated with the disorder. They include lymphocytic-plasmacytic enterocolitis (most common in cats), eosinophilic enteritis (seen more in middle-aged to older cats: less common than the first type), and regional granulomatous enterocolitis, which is rare. All have similar treatments.

Important Points in Treatment

1. The actual cure is much more difficult than a control. Control allows your cat comfort and the ability to function normally.
2. Complete laboratory assessment with blood tests and fecal and urine examinations is recommended. Radiographs (x-rays), thyroid evaluation, leukemia tests, biopsies, and other tests may allow your veterinarian to rule out other possible disorders. Many diseases produce the same signs as IBD.
3. Diet: Dietary trials may be suggested to rule out possible food allergies. Generally, the trial should extend for 4 to 6 weeks. During the trial, it is essential that you feed nothing other than what is recommended. Feeding a single snack or food item not recommended can interfere with the results and negate your efforts.

Animals Affected – Dog

(Kennel Cough)

General Information
Infectious tracheobronchitis is a contagious disease of the upper respiratory tract, which includes the trachea (windpipe) and bronchi (large air passages of the lungs). Viruses and bacteria are usually involved.

The most common sign of kennel cough is a harsh, dry cough that is often followed by gagging and coughing up foamy mucus. Otherwise, the patient appears alert and generally healthy. The disease spreads rapidly from one dog to another, but it does not affect people. Signs appear in 3 to 10 days after the dog contracts the disease. Vaccines are available to protect against kennel cough.

General Information

Leptospirosis is a serious bacterial disease that infects dogs, people, and several other types of animals. There are numerous types (called serotypes) of leptospires. Although each type is infectious only for certain animals, some infect several species, including people.

These bacteria attack the kidneys, liver, and nervous system. Recovered animals may shed the organism in their urine for up to 1 year. Infected rats are a common source of leptospirosis.

Vaccination is the best prevention for leptospirosis. All dogs should be vaccinated yearly. This vaccine is commonly combined with the distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, and parainfluenza vaccines.

Important Points in Treatment

1. Laboratory tests of blood and urine are necessary to diagnose the disease and monitor the response to treatment. Hospitalization is often necessary.

Animals Affected – Cat

(Feline Infectious Anemia)

General Information
Mycoplasma Hemophilus is a blood disease of cats in which a microscopic parasite) attaches itself to the red blood cells. These red cells are then trapped in the cat’s spleen and the parasite and/or red blood cell is destroyed. Anemia (decreased numbers of red blood cells) results from the trapping of red cells in the spleen and damage to the cells done by the parasites. Infected cats go through cycles of anemia because of alternating periods of replication and destruction of the parasite and blood cells by the spleen. The time from infection to the appearance of the parasite on the red cells varies from 8 to 23 days.

Mycoplasma Hemophilus is transmitted to healthy cats by blood-sucking insects, such as fleas. Recovered cats are often carriers, and, therefore, control of external parasites, such as fleas and lice, is necessary to prevent the spread to other cats.

The disease can be very mild with no obvious signs of illness, or it can be severe with fever, weakness, emaciation, loss of appetite, and jaundice. Some infected cats show no signs of illness until they are stressed by illness, injury, or severe emotional upset. Recurrence of feline infectious anemia is fairly common, even after treatment.

Important Points in Treatment

1. Severely ill cats require hospitalization and one or more blood transfusions.
2. Medication: Give all medication as directed. Call the doctor if you are unable to administer the medication as directed.

Animals Affected – Cat

(Parvovirus Infection, Feline Distemper)

General Information

Feline distemper is a highly contagious viral disease. Although it occurs most often in kittens under 6 months of age, cats of any age may become infected. The death rate is highest in young kittens and old cats.

Signs develop 2 to 5 days after exposure to the virus. The disease runs its course in 2 to 14 days. Severe diarrhea is the most consistent sign of the disease, but fever, lack of appetite, vomiting, dehydration, and profound depression are also common. Affected cats often develop secondary pneumonia because the virus severely depresses the cat’s resistance to other illnesses.

Cats become infected by direct contact with an infected cat or its bodily secretions, especially feces. The virus survives in the environment for long periods, so a cat may become infected merely by visiting an area where an infected cat has been. Cats that contract the virus during pregnancy pass it to their kittens in the uterus. These kittens may be born with a brain defect.

All kittens should be vaccinated for feline distemper, and adult cats should be given yearly booster vaccinations.

Animals Affected – Dog

General Information

Dogs become infected with parvovirus through contact with the stool of an infected dog or a contaminated environment. The virus is very hardy and remains infectious in the environment for a long time. Puppies are most susceptible to parvovirus infection.

Parvovirus causes severe and often bloody vomiting and diarrhea. Infected animals rapidly dehydrate, and severe cases progress to shock and death. Fatalities occur mostly in puppies less than 12 weeks old.

Occasionally parvovirus attacks the heart muscle of puppies and can cause sudden death.

A vaccine is available for the prevention of canine parvovirus infection, and all dogs should be vaccinated annually.

Important Points in Treatment

1.  Early fluid therapy is the most important factor in treating dogs with parvovirus infection. Intravenous fluids both rehydrate and nourish the sick dog.
2. Additional treatment includes prevention of secondary bacterial infection and drugs to control vomiting and diarrhea.
3. Repeated laboratory tests are necessary to monitor your pet’s white blood cell count and state of hydration.

Animals Affected – Cat

General Information
Pneumonitis is an infectious upper respiratory disease in cats. It is caused by the organism Chlamydia psittaci and is spread by contact with discharges from the eye, nose, or mouth. Cats usually develop signs of infection 5 to 10 days after exposure.

The organism also causes inflammation of the conjunctiva (conjunctivitis), characterized by squinting, red, painful eyelids, and excessive tearing. The eye discharge may become yellow or green, and such respiratory signs as sneezing, coughing, or discharge from the nose may appear. Occasionally, the disease reappears in recovered cats after stress or other illness.

Vaccination is the best means of preventing pneumonitis.

Public Health Significance
Because the same organism that infects cats also causes eye infections in people, strict hygiene should be practiced when handling infected cats.

Animals Affected – Dog, Cat, Rodent

General Information

Rabies is a fatal disease caused by a virus. All warm-blooded animals are susceptible. The disease is usually spread when an infected animal bites another animal or person. The bitten animal or person will not become infected, however, unless the saliva of the sick animal contains the rabies virus at the time of the bite. Bats, skunks, and foxes are the most commonly infected wild animals. Dogs and cats are the most commonly infected domestic animals.

Because the signs of rabies vary, diagnosis is very difficult while the animal is alive. The only positive diagnosis is by laboratory examination of certain tissues.

Early in the disease, affected animals may show a slight change in behavior or temperament. As the disease progresses, the animal becomes restless and excitable and may have a tendency to roam or eat unusual objects. The animal then may have trouble swallowing and may begin to drool excessively. Frequently the animal becomes vicious. Convulsions may occur and are usually fatal.

Some animals do not die in convulsions, but instead suffer paralysis of the lower jaw. Shortly after this, the paralysis spreads over the body and death occurs. This is called “dumb” rabies.

If a suspected rabid animal bites a person, the animal should be quarantined for 10 days. If the animal develops signs of rabies or dies, tissues must be sent to a laboratory for examination.

Because rabies is such a threat to people and other animals, affected animals are not treated. Euthanasia (humane destruction) is mandatory.

Vaccination is the best means of rabies control. All pets should be vaccinated. Consult your veterinarian regarding the proper vaccination procedure for your pet and be sure your pet is regularly vaccinated.

Wild animals should not be kept as pets nor vaccinated for rabies. (There is no approved rabies vaccine available for wild animals.)

Animals Affected – Cat

General Information

Various infectious organisms have been isolated from the respiratory tract of cats. Most of these organisms are contagious, and some can cause fatal diseases. These organisms include rhinotracheitis virus, calicivirus, Chlamydia psittaci, reoviruses, Mycoplasma, and various bacteria. In most cases, isolation of the offending organism is neither necessary nor cost-effective.

Respiratory diseases are transmitted by direct contact with infected cats or discharges from their eyes, nose, mouth, or other body fluids. Some of these organisms are spread by contaminated clothing, hands, feeding utensils, grooming equipment, and other articles. In a few cases, the organisms are airborne for short distances.

The most common signs of respiratory disease are sneezing, cough, discharge from the eyes, nose, or mouth, difficulty breathing, gagging, lack of appetite, and weight loss. Some infections last only a few days, while others may be present for weeks or months. Some of these disease agents exist in a carrier state in apparently healthy cats.

Important Points in Treatment

1. While most respiratory infections can be treated at home, severely ill cats require hospitalization and repeated laboratory tests and radiographs (x-rays) to monitor the response to treatment. Cats reluctant or unable to eat are also often hospitalized.

Animals Affected – Cat

General Information

Rhinotracheitis is caused by a herpesvirus that attacks the eyes, nasal passages, and trachea (windpipe) of cats. Once infected, a cat shows respiratory signs, such as sneezing, coughing, and runny eyes and nose, within 2 to 5 days. Infection is spread by contact with discharges from the eyes, nose, or mouth of infected cats or contact with contaminated clothing, hands, feeding utensils, or other articles. In mild cases, recovery occurs in 1 to 2 weeks, while more severe cases may last for several weeks.

Adult cats usually recover, but the disease is more serious in kittens, and fatalities are not uncommon. Some cats become persistently infected and suffer from chronic sneezing or periodic relapses.

Vaccination is the best means of preventing this disease. All cats should be vaccinated yearly.

Important Points in Treatment

1. While no treatment is available to eliminate the virus, various medications are given to control clinical signs and prevent secondary bacterial infections and pneumonia.
2. In severe cases, hospitalization is often necessary.
3. Many cats with rhinotracheitis lose all interest in food because of a decreased sense of smell. Forced oral feeding or intravenous feeding may be necessary until the cat’s appetite improves.

General Information
Salmonellosis is a bacterial disease of the intestinal tract caused by the bacterium Salmonella. Animals are infected by eating substances contaminated with the bacteria. The organisms are present in the feces of infected animals for up to 6 weeks after recovery. This organism is very hardy and can survive for long periods in the environment.

Signs of salmonellosis include vomiting, diarrhea with or without blood, fever, and dehydration. Severe cases may be fatal. The disease is most common in young, stressed, weakened, or aged animals.

Some dogs can carry and spread the disease without showing signs of illness. Because cats are more resistant to the organism, they are affecte