In this article on our site we are going to talk about a pathology that, fortunately, is not very common. This is encephalitis, which is an inflammation and/or infection of the brain that, even in dogs that recover, can leave sequelae. We will see that different types of encephalitis are distinguished depending on the cause that triggered them. We will also talk about the symptoms that are going to characterize encephalitis in dogs and the treatment that, as always, is essential for the vet to prescribe.
Causes and symptoms of encephalitis in dogs
What is encephalitis in dogs? Encephalitis is an inflammation of the brain or encephalon. The Clinical signs of encephalitis in dogs include:
- Fever
- Apathy
- Changes in behavior and personality (particularly aggressiveness develops)
- Wandering uncoordinated
- Seizures
- Stupor and coma
Of course, observing any of these symptoms in our dog should make us go to the vet.
The most common cause of encephalitis is canine distemper, a potentially deadly viral disease that, fortunately, is decreasing its incidence thanks to vaccination plans. The rabies, eradicated in many countries also thanks to vaccines, is another viral cause of encephalitis, as is the herpesvirus, capable of producing encephalitis in newborn puppies less than two weeks old.
Other even rarer causes of encephalitis are mycotic infections, that is, caused by fungi, protozoa, rickettsials or the ehrlichiosis. In addition to the brain, the spinal cord can be damaged. There is also lead encephalitis, which is what would be triggered in dogs that ingest materials that have lead among their components, such as some paint or plaster. These inadequate intakes are more likely in puppies. In these cases, symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea or constipation are also observed.
Bacterial encephalitis in dogs
This type of encephalitis in dogs is caused by bacteria that reach the brain through the circulatory system, although it is also They may spread directly from the nasal passage or from an infected abscess in areas such as the head or neck.
Postvaccinal encephalitis in dogs
This type of encephalitis in dogs occurs after the use of modified vaccines or modified viruses It is more likely to be triggered when puppies under 6-8 weeks of age are given the distemper vaccine and the parvovirus preparation at the same time.
Meningitis and encephalitis in dogs
Meningitis is understood as the inflammation of the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord Its origin is usually a bite that becomes infected located in the head or neck area. In addition, bacterial infections that reach the brain from places such as the nose or ear can also lead to meningitis. There is a type of meningitis, called aseptic or viral, which has an unknown origin and which will affect puppies under two years of age belonging to large breeds.
Necrotizing encephalitis in dogs
This type of encephalitis in dogs is typical of small breeds such as the pug or the yorkshire. It is hereditary and affects young dogs, under four years of age. It can attack the entire brain or just specific areas. There is a rare form that is limited to the optic nerves and will cause sudden blindness. Unfortunately, this disease is progressive and there is no treatment Only drugs can be prescribed to slow its progression.
Treatment of encephalitis in dogs
The diagnosis of encephalitis and meningitis in dogs is reached after analyzing a sample of cerebrospinal fluid which is extracted by spinal puncture. Also, the vet will need to run tests to find out the underlying cause. Based on the results, it will establish the treatment, which will be aimed at eliminating what has caused the encephalitis and controlling its symptoms.
Thus, corticosteroids may be used to reduce inflammation in the brain. If the dog has convulsions, it will be necessary to medicate it with anticonvulsants antibiotics can also be used for encephalitis in dogs if the cause is a bacterial infection.
Sequelae of encephalitis in dogs
The added problem of encephalitis in dogs is that, even when we manage to recover, they can have sequelae such as seizures and other neurological symptomsThese can be highly variable because they will depend on the affected area and the area that can be recovered. Thus, we may find ourselves with tics, limps or uncoordinated walking.
Is dog encephalitis contagious?
Encephalitis, as an inflammation of the brain, is not contagious but, as a symptom of diseases such as distemper, it is communicable between dogs in contact, depending on the triggering pathology, we must take the appropriate precautions. That is why it is so important to go to the vet to get a good diagnosis as soon as possible.
