What is Lyme Disease?
Lyme disease is caused by a bacteria called Borrelia which is transmitted through the bite of black legged or deer ticks. The infection is spread when an uninfected animal is bitten by the infected tick, then continues to spread as uninfected ticks feed on infected animals.
What are symptoms of Lyme disease?
In pets there are a number of symptoms of Lyme disease that you can watch for, including:
- Lameness due to inflamed joints
- General malaise or discomfort
- Depression
- Lack of appetite
- Difficulty breathing
- Fever
- Sensitivity to touch
Lyme disease is relatively common in dogs but much less likely to be seen in cats. Nonetheless, if your pet displays any of the symptoms of Lyme disease listed above, it's time to visit the vet.
How can Lyme disease be diagnosed?
At the appointment your vet will run through a thorough medical history of your dog or cat, perform a careful examination, then run a series of diagnostic tests including: blood tests, urine analysis, fecal exam and x-rays.
Your vet may also draw fluid from your dog or cat's affected joints to be analyzed.
What happens if my pet is diagnosed with Lyme disease?
If your dog or cat is diagnosed with Lyme disease your vet will prescribe a course of antibiotics lasting for four weeks or more. If your pet is showing signs of inflamed joints and joint pain, your vet will also prescribe an anti-inflammatory pain medication for your pet.
Tick prevention is part of our Wellness Plans. Find the Wellness Plan that's right for your pet.
Looking for a vet in Mooresville?
We're always accepting new patients, so contact our veterinary hospital today to book your pet's first appointment.Related Articles View All
Types, Causes & Symptoms of Anemia in Dogs
Anemia in dogs is a serious condition that can be caused by a number of underlying health issues. Here our Mooresville vets explain the different types of anemia seen in dogs, as well as their symptoms of anemia and how it can be treated.
Cat Urinary Tract Infection & Treatment
Cat urinary tract infections are much more rare than urinary tract infections in dogs. Nonetheless, cats (particularly senior cats) do frequently experience other urinary tract issues such as Feline Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD). Today our Mooresville vets share the symptoms of urinary tract issues in cats.
Ear Infection in Cats - Causes, Symptoms & Treatments
Although ear infections are uncommon in cats when they do occur they can be an indication of an underlying issue that requires medical attention. Today our Mooresville vets explain some of the causes, symptoms and treatments for ear infection in cats.
Help! Is my cat overweight?
You may not think much about your cat's cuddly size but carrying just a few extra ounces can make a big difference to your cat's wellbeing and longevity. Today, our Mooresville vets explain how you can tell if your cat is overweight.