Lyme Disease

July 1st, 2005

Lyme disease is an infectious disease transmitted by the deer tick. The disease has been reported in cats, dogs, horses, cattle and humans.

The infected deer tick feeds on these hosts, becoming partially engorged (24-48 hours after attachment); the tick transmits the spirochete organism, Borrelia burgdorferi, the causative agent of Lyme disease. Affected animals may or may not exhibit signs after infection occurs.

The most commonly reported signs include recurrent arthritis with lameness, fever, anorexia and depression. Three phases of disease have been reported. During the acute phase (7-21 days) vague signs such as fever joint, swelling, lethargy and lameness may be noticed, although often signs of illness in the early phase are not always present. The sub clinical phase (1-3 years) is a period in which animals may appear healthy; however, the disease is progressing. The chronic phase is the period during which lameness may be observed. Other organs affected included are the heart and kidneys.

Diagnosis of Lyme disease can be made by blood testing. Due to the potentially progressive nature of this disease, early detection and treatment are essential. Yearly testing for Lyme disease is recommended. As with any disease, prevention is the best method of control. Consult with your veterinarian for available tick prevention products and vaccines.

Written by:
By Holly VanNess, DVM
Claremont Animal Hospital, Inc.

Entry Filed under: Pet Pages