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Parasitic diseases in rabbits: the commonest threats and how to prevent them
Coccidiosis, encephalitozoonosis, ear mange and cheyletiellosis are the parasitic diseases pet rabbits meet most often, and they can go unnoticed for a long time. We explain how they are diagnosed in the laboratory, how they are treated, and which hygiene, quarantine and feeding rules keep infection at bay.
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How to protect your dog’s paws in winter
Frost, ice and road salt leave a dog's pads irritated, cracked and sometimes frostbitten every winter. We explain how to pick a route and a protective wax before the walk, how to rinse and dry the paws properly once you are home, and which signs mean it is time to call the veterinary clinic.
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Horner’s syndrome in dogs and cats: signs, causes, diagnosis and treatment
A drooping eyelid, a smaller pupil and a visible third eyelid on one side add up to Horner's syndrome. It is not painful in itself and does not harm sight, but it often signals another, more serious condition underneath. We explain the causes, the diagnostic steps, the pharmacological tests and the treatment options.
Babesiosis – How to Avoid It and What to Do If You Find a Tick on Your Pet
Babesiosis is a disease that mainly affects dogs and, far less often, cats. It is spread by ticks and occurs in animals all over the world. Sometimes confused with Lyme disease, it is in fact a separate condition – and a dangerous one for pets. Without prompt veterinary care it all too often ends in the animal’s death. What are its symptoms, how is it diagnosed and how is it treated?
Babesiosis – where it occurs
The first cases of babesiosis in Poland were described in the 1960s in the Lublin region. Initially they appeared mainly in the eastern and northern parts of the country, home to the disease’s carrier, the meadow tick. Today cases of babesiosis are recorded almost throughout the country. They affect animals living in the provinces along Poland’s eastern and western borders, as well as in the north and centre of the country. Infections are less common in mountain areas.
What is babesiosis and how is it diagnosed?
Babesiosis is a tick-borne disease caused by the protozoan Babesia canis. It occurs mainly in dogs and is only very rarely diagnosed in cats. Infection happens while a tick is feeding on blood. It cannot be passed on by contact – through play or a bite from another animal.
Statistically, most cases are recorded in April and August, but the risk of infection persists almost all year round – whenever air temperatures stay above 4 ºC for several consecutive days.
Diagnosing babesiosis at the vet’s is relatively straightforward. After taking a history and running blood tests, the vet can confirm infection with Babesia canis. A complete blood count usually shows reduced platelets, red blood cells and haemoglobin.
Symptoms of babesiosis
Babesiosis causes red blood cells to break down in the body, leading to severe anaemia. The incubation period ranges from a few days to several weeks. Left untreated, it can kill an animal in a short time. Symptoms that should worry every owner include:
If you notice even one of the symptoms described above (especially if you have recently found a tick on your pet) – don’t wait. Babesiosis progresses extremely fast and only your immediate response can save your dog’s life.
Treating babesiosis – what does it involve?
An animal with babesiosis is treated with antiprotozoal drugs. These are fairly toxic and have a low therapeutic index, but giving them is the only chance of saving the animal. In addition, depending on the symptoms observed, the veterinarian may decide to use steroids and antibiotics. In extreme cases a blood transfusion can save a dog’s life.
Preventing babesiosis
To minimise the risk of your dog catching babesiosis, use tick prevention products in the form of a collar, spot-on drops or tablets. In areas with a high rate of infection, spray your pet before every walk with a special spray that gives temporary protection. When you get home, check your dog over and remove any ticks you find. The longer a tick stays attached to the skin, the greater the risk of infection.