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What Is Lyme Disease in Pets?

In the foreground, a person is holding up a tick with their finger. In the background, a dog lays in the grass.

Lyme disease is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi that is primarily transmitted through the bite of infected ticks, particularly the black-legged tick (deer tick). When a tick bites a cat, dog, or other pet, it can introduce this bacterium into their bloodstream, which can lead to a number of health issues. It is important to note that while Lyme disease more frequently affects dogs, it can still occur in cats.

Lyme disease in pets can result in inflammation and infection of many organs, leading to serious complications if left without treatment. Thus, it is important to recognize the signs early and take appropriate action.

Symptoms of Lyme Disease in Pets

It is important to note that symptoms of Lyme disease in dogs and cats can vary, and some pets may not show any signs at all initially. Some detectable symptoms include lameness due to joint inflammation, fever that can cause lethargy and decreased energy, swollen joints that can lead to pain and discomfort, loss of appetite, and fatigue.

Causes

A tick bite is the primary cause of Lyme disease in dogs and cats, particularly from an infected black-legged ticks.
Below are some common risk factors:

• Location: This disease is more common in certain geographic areas, such as ones with dense tick populations.
• Outdoor Pets: Pets who spend times outdoors come in contact with ticks more than indoor pets.
• Time of Year: Lyme disease is more common during spring and summer as tick populations increase with the rising temperature.

Diagnostic Tests

The diagnostic tests involve a combination of physical examination by your vet and laboratory tests such as blood tests to check for antibodies against the Borrelia bacterium, as well as tests to check for kidney function and other infections. Your vet may also request  X-rays to check the joint, as the joints may be affected by Lyme disease.

Treatment Options for Lyme Disease in Pets

• Antibiotic to help to eliminate the bacteria from your little one’s system and soothe the symptoms. Normally your fur baby will receive the treatment for some weeks.
• Anti-inflammatory to help decrease the pain and inflammation in the joints.
• In severe cases surgery my be recommended to alleviate pain in the joints and help with mobility.
• Dietary changes offering a balanced diet are also important to support your fur baby immune system and recovery.