West Nile little threat to cats and dogs, but watch for these signs
From the Jackson, MS Clarion-Ledger.
West Nile little threat to cats and dogs, but watch for these signs
Dr. Mark Russak • Special to The Clarion-Ledger • April 15, 2008
With West Nile virus spreading across the United States, many pet owners are worried about their pets getting infected. So far, most West Nile virus infections have been identified in wild birds and horses.
Although the virus can infect dogs and cats, the risk of illness is extremely low.
West Nile virus is spread by mosquitoes and causes encephalitis (dangerous swelling of the brain). The virus is transmitted when mosquitoes feed on infected birds. The now-infected mosquitoes may then transmit the virus to humans and other animals through biting.
The virus can’t be transmitted directly between animals or from animals to people, except when a mosquito is the transmitter.
The risk West Nile virus poses to pets is very small even when they have been exposed. The few pets in the United States that have become sick with the virus were usually already ill with other problems. Dogs and cats are generally thought immune. Elderly and young dogs and those with compromised immune systems are at higher risk.
Symptoms in infected dogs are similar to signs exhibited by horses: depression, lower appetite, difficulty walking, trembling, holding the head in an abnormal position, circling and convulsions.
It is important to contact your veterinarian if your pet shows any of these signs.
There is currently no vaccine available for dogs and cats. As with people, the best way to prevent your pet from contracting the virus is to reduce the risk of mosquito exposure.
Prevention tips:
Keep pets indoors during early morning and evening hours when mosquitoes are more active to reduce the risk of mosquito bites and possible exposure.
Prevent your pet from coming into contact with dead birds or squirrels that may have been infected with the virus.
Use only mosquito repellents that are approved for use in pets, and check the label to determine if the product is pet-safe. Many insect repellents that are designed for human use contain a chemical that can cause serious illness in pets. To be 100 percent safe, ask your veterinarian for a recommendation.
In the event that pesticides are sprayed in your area, keep pets indoors during spraying.
It is important to be informed but do not be overly concerned with this uncommon disease. Be more cautious if your pet is very young, elderly or already has a chronic disease.
Dr. Mark Russak is an associate professor of primary care at Mississippi State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. E-mail him at russak@ cvm.msstate.edu.
