Mycoplasmosis in dogs: symptoms and treatment

Mycoplasmosis in dogs is an infectious disease caused by Mycoplasma cynos, the Mollicutes class. These microscopic prokaryotes, no larger than 0,3 microns in size, affect the mucous membranes of various organs. How do you know if a pet is sick?

Mycoplasmosis is quite difficult to diagnose, because the disease practically does not manifest itself for a long time. The owner may not even realize that his pet is sick until the animal reaches extreme exhaustion. The disease is not transmitted from a dog to a person. Only another person can infect a person with mycoplasmosis.

Causes of the disease

Mycoplasmas are found almost everywhere in nature, regardless of climate and other conditions. In many dogs, they live in the microflora of the genital and respiratory tract and can exist for many years without causing any side effects. It all depends on the immunity of the animal – if everything is in order with the health and immune system of the dog, then the disease will not develop.

A pet can become infected with mycoplasmas on the street or from another dog, for example, during mating. There are several ways of infection:

● sexual, ● intrauterine, ● through mother’s milk, ● airborne, ● contact.

In immunocompromised or chronically ill animals, mycoplasmas can cause:

● respiratory problems, ● conjunctivitis, ● mastitis, ● cystitis, ● liver and kidney damage.

Mycoplasmosis is most dangerous for pregnant dogs, as it can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth or further infertility.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

If you suspect that the pet has become infected with mycoplasmas, it is important not to treat yourself, but immediately contact a veterinarian. Since mycoplasmosis in the initial stages is extremely weak, you should carefully monitor the condition of the pet.

The following signs may indicate the presence of the disease:

● lacrimation and redness of the eyes, the formation of pus; ● runny nose; ● dermatitis, skin peeling and eczema; ● rise in temperature; ● lameness and swelling of the joints; ● decrease or lack of appetite, depletion of the pet; ● apathy and lethargy; ● anemia; ● nausea, gastrointestinal problems, diarrhea; ● difficult urination.

Diagnosis of mycoplasmosis is difficult because it does not cause any specific symptoms. That is why it is important to pass the necessary tests as soon as possible. The main diagnostic method is a PCR test, and a bacterial blood culture and urinalysis can also be performed to determine the response of mycoplasmas to antibiotics.

Treatment of mycoplasmosis in dogs and prevention measures

Mycoplasmosis is treated comprehensively. This is a long process that will require a fair amount of patience from the owner. Therapy includes taking antibiotics, mainly of the tetracycline series, as well as anti-inflammatory drugs. Tetracycline antibiotics are contraindicated in puppies, and treatment of pregnant dogs begins only after caesarean section. This is a necessity that will save the lives of both mother and cubs.

There is no direct prevention of mycoplasmosis, but the likelihood of its occurrence can be reduced. You should carefully monitor the health of the pet, support its immune system, and also prevent the development of chronic diseases.

See also:

Can a dog catch a cold or get the flu The most common dog diseases: symptoms and treatment What can you catch from a dog