Toxoplasmosis is an aggressive disease that can affect both humans and animals, and is caused by a parasitic single celled organism (protozoa). It is dangerous, highly contagious, and can be found all over the world.
The protozoa that causes toxoplamosis, Toxoplama gondii, can affect both dogs and humans, and is spread through the feces of infected cats, or by eating undercooked, infected meats. Once they’re consumed, the protozoa invade the lining of the stomach and lower intestine, then spread quickly though the rest of the body. It can be fatal if untreated, especially in young dogs and those with compromised immune systems.
Older dogs with healthy immune systems may not require any treatment, and might be able to contain the infection or eliminate it on their own. However, toxoplasmosis can sometimes cause bradyzoites to form inside the animal: asymptomatic tissue cysts containing the organisms.
Symptoms of Toxoplasmosis in Dogs
If you notice that your dog has any of the below symptoms, get him to your veterinarian immediately, especially if you think your dog has gotten into the litterbox or eaten roadkill.
– Vomiting
– Diarrhea
– Tremors
– Shortness of breath
– Fever
– Weight loss
– Refusal of food
– Inflammation of the eyes
– Lethargy/muscle weakness
Types, Causes and Diagnosis of Toxoplasmosis in Dogs
Acute Toxoplasmosis – If your dog has eaten raw, undercooked meat, or gotten into the cat box, he may have acute toxoplasmosis. Showing symptoms alone cannot confirm a diagnosis, so your vet may order tests on blood, feces and spinal fluid.
Chronic Toxoplasmosis – Adult dogs who become infected with toxoplasmosis may develop asymptomatic tissue cysts. His health won’t be affected, but may affect other animals he comes in contact with.
Fetal Toxoplasmosis – Females affected by toxoplasmosis carry the risk of giving the infection to their puppies while she’s pregnant. The pups may be born stillborn, or die shortly after birth.
Treatment of Toxoplasmosis in Dogs
For acute toxoplasmosis, your vet may prescribe Pyrimethamine along with sulfadiazine (an antibiotic.) Together, they’ll suppress the parasite from multiplying and spreading. Clindamycin is also often prescribed for dogs. They will not usually clear the infection entirely, and rely on your dog’s immune system to help. The sooner your dog sees a vet after being infected, the more likely he is to make a full recovery. At this time, there is no treatment available for chronic or fetal toxoplasmosis.
Recovery of Toxoplasmosis in Dogs
Intravenous fluids or other measures may be needed, but it’s likely that all your dog may need will be rest, and time away from other animals to keep the infection from spreading to others.
Prevention is best. Keep litterboxes where your dog can’t get into them and clean them regularly. If you feed your dog wild game or raw food, freeze any and all meat for at least two days before giving it to your dog.
