Resources

Do You Know Enough About Canine Parvovirus?

December 11, 2024December 11, 2024by Maleny Vets

Hey there, pet parents! We need to talk about a serious topic that every dog owner should be aware of – canine parvovirus. While it is most common in puppies, this highly-contagious and potentially deadly virus can affect dogs of all ages so it’s something you should be vigilant about preventing throughout your doggo’s whole life.

What is canine parvovirus?

Canine parvovirus, commonly known as ‘parvo’, is a viral disease that attacks the gastrointestinal tract of dogs. It can cause severe vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, and in some cases, even death. The virus is spread through contact with infected faeces, so it’s important to keep your furry friend away from areas where other dogs may have pooped.

Symptoms of canine parvovirus

If your dog is infected with parvo, you may notice symptoms such as lethargy, loss of appetite, fever, and bloody diarrhea. The virus onset is often rapid so it’s crucial to seek immediate veterinary care if you suspect your dog may have parvo, as early treatment is key to a successful recovery.

Preventing canine parvovirus

The best way to protect your dog from parvo is through vaccination. Puppies should receive a series of vaccinations starting at around 6-8 weeks of age, with boosters given every few weeks until they are around 16 weeks old. Adult dogs should also receive regular vaccinations to maintain immunity.

In addition to vaccination, it’s important to practice good hygiene and avoid areas where infected dogs may have been. Clean up after your dog promptly and avoid contact with unknown dogs until they have been properly vaccinated.

Treatment for canine parvovirus

If your dog is diagnosed with parvo, treatment will typically involve supportive care such as IV fluids, anti-nausea medication, and antibiotics to prevent secondary infections. Recovery can be a long and challenging process, but with proper veterinary care, many dogs are able to overcome the virus.

Canine parvovirus is a serious threat to dogs, especially puppies, but with proper prevention and prompt treatment, you can help protect your furry friend. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and always give us a call if you have any concerns about your dog’s health. Remember, your doggo’s well-being is worth every effort to keep them safe and healthy.

Signs and Symptoms of Heat Stroke In Animals

November 8, 2024November 8, 2024by Maleny Vets

Have you ever seen your furry friend panting excessively on a hot summer day? It might be more than just a normal reaction to heat. Heat stroke in animals is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that can sneak up on their owners. As temperatures rise, it’s crucial to know the signs and symptoms to look for, that could save your pet’s life.

Imagine the distress of watching your beloved companion suffer without knowing how to help. Don’t let that be you! By understanding the telltale signs of heat stroke, you’ll be equipped to spot trouble early and take action fast. From subtle behavioral changes to alarming physical symptoms, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to keep your pets safe and cool.

Understanding Heat Stroke in Animals

Heat stroke in animals occurs when their body temperature rises to dangerous levels, typically above 40°C. This condition results from an inability to regulate body temperature effectively in hot environments.

Causes include prolonged exposure to high temperatures, lack of access to water and/or shade, excessive exercise in hot weather and poor ventilation in enclosed spaces.

IMPORTANT NOTE

While most animals can suffer from heat stroke, some species are more susceptible, including dogs, birds, horses and cats.

Importance of early detection

Early detection of heat stroke is crucial for several reasons:

Rapid progression – Heat stroke can escalate quickly, leading to organ failure
Higher survival rates – Prompt treatment significantly improves outcomes
Prevention of long-term damage – Early intervention reduces the risk of lasting effects
Easier treatment – Mild cases are simpler to manage than severe ones

You should familiarise yourself with the signs of heat stroke in your pets or livestock. By recognising the early symptoms, you can take immediate action to cool your animal and seek veterinary care. This knowledge could mean the difference between a quick recovery and a life-threatening situation.

Common Signs of Heat Stroke

As the temperature rises, it’s crucial to be aware of the common signs of heat stroke in animals. Recognising these symptoms early can be life-saving for your furry and feathered friends. Let’s explore the key indicators you should watch out for:

1. BEHAVIOURAL CHANGES

As you learn about heat stroke in animals, it’s crucial to recognise the behavioral changes that can indicate your pet is struggling with heat. By being aware of these signs, you can take swift action to prevent a potentially life-threatening situation.

Reluctance to move or exercise – You might notice your usually energetic pet becoming lethargic or weak. Pay attention to pets refusing to play fetch or engage in other games, lying down frequently during walks, or showing disinterest in toys or treats.

Seeking shade or cool surfaces – Animals instinctively try to cool themselves down when overheated. You may observe your pet spending more time in shaded areas, lying on cool tiles or concrete floors, or attempting to dig holes in the ground to find cooler soil.

Increased agitation or restlessness – Heat can make animals uncomfortable and anxious. Watch for pacing back and forth, difficulty settling down or not being able to find a comfortable position.

2. EXCESSIVE PANTING AND DROOLING

You may notice your pet’s breathing becoming rapid and labored. Their tongue may hang out more than usual, and they may produce an excessive amount of saliva – this is your pet’s attempt to cool down through evaporation.

3. RAPID HEART RATE AND BREATHING

You may observe an increase in your pet’s heart rate. Their chest may visibly move faster with breaths as they struggle to regulate their body temperature.

4. VOMITING OR DIARRHEA

Heat stroke can cause gastrointestinal distress in animals so watch for a sudden onset of vomiting or diarrhea, which may contain blood in severe cases.

5. DISORIENTATION, SEIZURES OR COLLAPSE

In severe cases, you may notice muscle tremors/twitching, your pet stumbling, appearing confused, or even collapsing. This is a critical sign that the requires immediate attention and veterinary care.

IMPORTANT NOTE

Remember, these signs can progress rapidly so PREVENTION is key:

Monitor your pet closely in hot weather
Provide plenty of cool, fresh water and shade
Never leave your pet in a parked car

Immediate Actions for Suspected Heat Stroke

If you suspect your animal is suffering from heat stroke, swift action is crucial. Your quick response can make a significant difference in their recovery and overall health. Here’s what you should do:

1. MOVE THE ANIMAL TO A COOL AREA

Your first priority is to immediately relocate your pet to a cooler environment. This could be an airconditioned room, a shaded area outdoors, or near a fan. Remember, getting them out of the heat is the most critical step.

2. APPLY COOL (NOT COLD) WATER

Once in a cooler spot, you should begin to lower your pet’s body temperature by using lukewarm or cool water (not cold) to wet their fur by applying damp towels, focusing on areas with less hair like the belly and paws. You may also use a fan to increase air circulation.

3. OFFER SMALL AMOUNTS OF WATER

Your pet may be dehydrated, so offer them small amounts of cool water to drink. Don’t force them if they’re reluctant, as this could lead to choking. Instead, you can wet their tongue and gums with water using your fingers.

4. CONTACT A VETERINARIAN URGENTLY

While cooling your pet is the top priority, it’s also crucial to contact a veterinarian immediately. They can provide expert guidance tailored to your animal’s breed, age and specific situation, and prepare for your arrival if further treatment is necessary.

Recognising the signs of heat stroke in animals is crucial for every pet owner and animal caretaker. By familiarising yourself with the common symptoms, behavioral changes and physical indicators, you can potentially save an animal’s life.

If you suspect an animal is suffering from heat stroke, immediate action is vital. Always prioritise prevention by providing access to shade, fresh water and avoiding excessive exercise during hot weather. By staying informed and alert, you can ensure the safety and well-being of your furry and feathered companions during the hotter months.

Pets and Holidays

June 14, 2023June 20, 2023by Maleny Vets

When you bring a pet into your home, they become part of the family so naturally they need to be considered when you are planning a holiday. The first and maybe the biggest decision is whether or not they are coming with you!

Travelling WITH pets

Bringing your pet along on holidays can be so rewarding, but it does require some forward planning and some consideration both along the way AND at your final destination.

Never leave your pet unattended in the car.

Health check and grooming

Before you depart, bring your pet into the clinic for a health check and get them up-to-date with immunisations, medications and preventative health treatments. Some airlines or other transport carriers will require a ‘fit to travel’ certificate and/or vaccination certificate which can be provided after your pet’s check-up.

It’s common courtesy to fellow travellers to ensure your pet is clean and fresh smelling, so it’s also a great idea to book your pet in for professional grooming, or give them a good wash at home.

Phone ahead

Travelling with pets has become a lot easier in recent years, with transport, hotels, air bnbs and even campgrounds now offering pet-friendly facilities. Having said that… don’t assume! If you’re planning on taking your pet on holidays with you, please phone ahead to ensure your accommodation is pet-friendly. It doesn’t matter where you’re staying – the last thing you want to discover when you arrive is that your little buddy is not permitted on the premises!

Pack all the things

Don’t forget your pets’ needs in the packing frenzy! Dedicate a bag or suitcase just for your pet to ensure everything is within easy access, including a leash, toys, food, medications, treats, bowls and bedding. It’s a good idea to carry extra bottles of water to keep your pet hydrated along your journey.

List of contacts

In addition to the ‘stuff’, make sure you have your vet’s info handy so if anything were to happen, you can contact them quickly. Also take the time to research emergency vets in the area where you will be holidaying, and bring your pet insurance details with you just in case.

Travelling WITHOUT pets

Boarding Facilities

Boarding kennels and catteries book-out quickly, especially around peak times including school holidays so we advise planning well ahead book your pet into a reputable facility.

Boarding kennels and catteries house lots of animals within relatively small spaces. Some facilities will offer smaller rooms with one or two animals each, others house larger groups together. No matter which facility you choose, it’s important to discuss the space your pet will have access to, what your pet will be fed, your expectations around routine/exercise, any medication that needs to be administered and your pet’s temperament around other animals. All this information will help the staff ensure your pet gets the best possible care while you’re away.

Vaccinations

Reputable boarding kennels and catteries will require a copy of your pet’s vaccination history from your veterinarian. If they don’t ask it from you, chances are they will not be asking it from anyone else so there’s every chance that your pet will be exposed to illnesses at their facility. We recommend always selecting a facility that requires proof of pets’ vaccination histories.

Kennels and catteries will differ in the vaccinations they require their guests to be up-to-date with, but generally the minimum requirements are as follows:

Dogs will usually need a current C5 Vaccine to provide coverage for canine distemper virus, hepatitis, kennel cough, parainfluenza and parvovirus. While this vaccination is usually given to dogs when they’re puppies, booster vaccines are recommended to maintain immunity. Kennel cough is very common on the Sunshine Coast so please ensure your dog’s C5 is always up-to-date.
Cats will usually need a current F3 Vaccine to provide coverage for herpesvirus, calicivirus and parvovirus. This vaccine should be administered annually, beginning from when you cat is a kitten.

It is also a good idea to be sure your pet receives up-to-date worming, flea and tick prevention prior to boarding.

IMPORTANT: Most vaccines require two weeks to become effective, so should be administered well-ahead of your travel plans.

House Sitters

Some pets have a very shy, or anti-social temperament and can easily become stressed when away from their home environment (cats in particular are quite territorial). These types of animals may be much happier with a house sitter staying in your home with them instead. The other great thing about house sitters is that they can sometimes be more economical and can also take care of multiple animals, including the smaller ones (guinea pigs, fish, birds etc) who are more difficult to find temporary accommodation for.

It’s technically very easy to find a house sitter through established websites however, there are important steps you need to take to find a pet sitter that is trustworthy and reliable. Always interview the person and make sure they understand your expectations. Obtain and check references to ensure you feel safe leaving someone in your home and in charge of your pet/s.

Safe travelling!

Preventing Pet Theft

May 5, 2023June 20, 2023by Maleny Vets

Microchipping

Should they become lost or stolen, a microchip inserted by an authorised veterinarian makes it easier for your pet to be returned to you. You must keep your details up to date! If you move house or change your phone number, update them on the register right away. When getting a pet, you need to update the microchip to show that you are the owner.

Collar ID tags

All pets should have an ID tag with your name and phone number on their collar. Avoid writing your pet’s name on them, as this can help thieves gain their trust.

Opt for quick-release collars for your cat – these automatically open with enough force if your cat gets stuck somewhere, preventing injury.

Desexing your pet

Stolen pets are often sold to breeders, especially if they’re pedigree. By spaying or neutering your pet, you are disincentivizing this. Adding this information on their tags may make thieves think twice before stealing.

Supervision is key

Don’t tie pets up outside a store, and don’t leave them in the car, even if you’re only gone a few minutes. If your pet is in the garden or other exterior space, keep an eye out. Lock any gates, and add alarms so that you can tell if they’ve been opened. Security cameras can also help to dissuade thieves.

Practice recall

Ensure your pet is trained to return when called. For dogs going on walks, keep them on a lead – especially when visiting new places.

Always keep cats home overnight.

Watch what you share

Thieves often target high-value pets, staying close by while waiting for their opportunity. Don’t share your location on social media, try to take different routes while walking your pet, and be wary of any strangers who ask a lot of pet-related questions.

– Article by Vetstoria –

Why is chocolate toxic to pets?

March 29, 2023March 29, 2023by Maleny Vets

There are not many humans around that don’t love a bit (or a lot) of chocolate here and there, but why is it that we can enjoy the oh-so-delicious treat when it’s actually quite toxic to many of our furry friends?

The culprit is a naughty little molecule called theobromine. Theobromine occurs naturally in some plants, most notably in cacao… the key ingredient of chocolate.

Chemically speaking, the “ine” at the end of its name groups it with other alkaloids like caffeine, nicotine, cocaine and strychnine… absolutely none of which are pet-friendly if there’s any doubt!

Don’t get us wrong, we definitely don’t have a grudge against all alkaloids. There are some super-helpful ones we use in medicine all the time including morphine, quinine and ephedrine. But theobromine is just plain dangerous to our furry friends.

Just like its cousin caffeine, theobromine incites some nice feelings in humans and puts some pep in our step. But because our pets are smaller and have different metabolisms, even a small amount can be poisonous to them.

You know that feeling you get when you have a big deadline and you slam down coffee after coffee and cola after cola in an attempt to stay up all night? Your mind is fuzzy, your heart is racing, you can’t keep still and you think you might be sick? That’s not the looming deadline, that’s the toxicity of caffeine making itself known. It’s similar to what it feels like when a pet ingests even a small amount of theobromine in chocolate. Worst case is that those symptoms possibly lead to hyperactivity, tremors, seizures and death.

While the concentration of theobromine varies depending on the type of chocolate (baking chocolate and dark chocolate contain higher levels compared to milk chocolate), it’s recommended you refrain from giving any types to your pets, even in small doses.

However, pets quite often help themselves so if you suspect they’ve eaten any chocolate, please call us as soon as possible so we can assess them quickly and start any necessary treatment as early as possible – it could save their life.

Santa’s Naughty and Nice lists for your pets this Christmas

December 23, 2022June 20, 2023by Maleny Vets

Whilst the team at Maleny Vets love your pets almost as much as you do, we don’t want to see them this festive season (in an emergency situation, that is). Please, please, please remember that animals have different internal make-ups to humans, so many of the foods that we choose to indulge in (or over-indulge in) at this time of year can be incredibly harmful if consumed by your pets. Vets’ orders – keep any and all leftovers for yourself!

Below we’ve compiled a list of the most common offenders when it comes to ‘good intentions gone bad’ at Christmas. In the spirit of the season, we’ve divided suggestions into Santa’s ‘Naughty’ and ‘Nice’ lists…

Naughty List

Ham

Loaded with sodium-based nitrates and nitrites, the salt content in ham is way too much for most pets to handle. Too much sodium/salt can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, excessive thirst, urination, fluid retention and lethargy.

Chocolate

Chocolate contains theobromine which incites similar effects to caffeine – probably why we love it so much. But because your pets are smaller and have different metabolisms to humans, even a small amount can be poisonous to your pet and lead to nausea, diarrhea, increased heart rate, hyperactivity and possibly even tremors, seizures and death.

Fatty foods

Fatty foods containing butter, oils, meat drippings/grease/fat etc can cause a condition called pancreatitis in your pets. This can be incredibly painful for the poor little guys, and in some cases can result in organ damage, internal bleeding and death.

Prawn shells

They’re smelly and tasty and oh so appealing to your pets, but these little suckers are a common choking hazard and break apart after being ingested, creating sharp little shards that can cause big trouble in your pets’ intestines.

Cooked bones

Just like prawn shells, cooked bones have a tendency to splinter into shards that pierce mouths, throats and intestines, creating all sorts of painful and/or dangerous problems for your pet.

Garlic/onions

Humans may love these tasty flavour bombs but these two and other members of the Allium family of plants can be toxic to your pets. Symptoms of toxicity (which may take several days to appear) can include vomiting and diarrhea, anemia, breathlessness/rapid breathing, lethargy, abdominal pain, discoloured urine and an elevated heart rate.

Grapes

A great summer snack for humans, grapes and raisins are another no-no for cats and dogs. Aside from being an obvious choking hazard, all colours of grapes contain toxic compounds that can cause kidney failure in your pets.

Barbecues/fires

Lots of fun and excitement outdoors can lead to serious burns and injuries if your pets aren’t kept secured around barbecues and fires – don’t let those furbabies play anywhere near heat and flames!

Batteries

A dishonourable mention goes to the forgotten Christmas villain… batteries. Batteries – especially those ‘snack-size’ button fellas – can cause choking, intestinal blockages or corrosive internal ulcers and burns leading to permanent organ damage and death.

Nice List

Gift your pets tick prevention

During the summer months, it is more important than ever to ensure your pets’ tick prevention is up-to-date. This will ensure they have the best chance to be protected from these nasty critters. With the severity of tick numbers in our region, daily checks of your pets is also highly recommended.

Maintain your pets’ normal diet

Just because we humans tend to get a little snack-crazy at this time of year, doesn’t mean our furbabies need to. Do your pets the kindest favour and only feed them their regluar diets, leaving out all the extra snacks and treats that we’re tempted to share with them.

Give your pets lots of cuddles

If you’re lucky enough to have some time off, just spend it playing with your pets and give them lots of extra cuddles. Remember, they’re a huge part of our world but we are their whole world and time with us is the thing they treasure the most!

Resources

Foot and Mouth Disease

July 22, 2022June 20, 2023by Dr Indy Conway

You may have been hearing about Foot and Mouth Disease in the News recently, but what is it and why are we hearing about it suddenly?

Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) is a virus that effects all cloven foot animals (cattle and pigs mainly, but also sheep, goats, camelids, and buffalo. Disease is not seen in horses). The disease causes blisters to form on the feet and mouth, and while this rarely causes death, it can affect productivity (weight gain and milk production etc.) and be painful.

Why is it so important?

When a property has a positive animal, it becomes very difficult to contain the virus from spreading to other stock within the property and between properties. It is transmitted through aerosol, direct contact or in the environment (pasture, troughs, equipment etc.) when the blisters pop. It is also spread through feeding livestock meat products (swill feeding) which is illegal in Australia.

The virus is very resistant to disinfection and very contagious therefore difficult to contain when present on a property. Animals become contagious often before showing clinical signs. Vaccines do exist however there are many serotypes (variations) of the virus and while the vaccine is somewhat protective for a short period, it does not prevent disease in all serotypes. All these factors are the reason the disease is so difficult to manage when an outbreak occurs.

How does this impact producers?

The biggest impact of the disease is economical, as countries with FMD are not able to export meat products to other countries that are disease free. As well as this, when FMD is detected in a disease-free country, control measures include slaughter of all affected animals and mass vaccination. When considering the rapid spread of disease and difficulty reducing transmission, the loss of stock is often great.

Why is it suddenly in the news?

Recently FMD has been detected in Bali which has previously been disease free. FMD is currently endemic in some areas of Asia, most of Africa and the Middle East. It is not a new disease, but Bali’s proximity to Australia and the frequency of flights (both commercial and domestic) from Bali is the reason the disease has become newsworthy.

So, what can we do?

As producers or owners, it is important to monitor stock for evidence of blisters or lesions on the mouth or feet and immediately contact us if you are worried. Maintaining good biosecurity on farm is vital, including quarantining of new stock, not swill feeding and good hygiene between properties (this includes cleaning and disinfecting boots, changing dirty clothes, and washing hands well). If you have been travelling overseas to a FMD positive country, ensure boots are either disposed of or cleaned properly before interacting with livestock.

Resources

Japanese Encephalitis Virus (JEV)

March 16, 2022June 20, 2023by Dr Indy Conway

In recent weeks, another “new” virus has been making the news in Australia. In fact, this virus is NOT new, and not even new to our shores. It has however, just shown up in areas where it has never been before, in case numbers not seen before, and at a time when mother nature has made it potentially very easy for it to get around.

What is it?

Japanese Encephalitis Virus (JEV) is in the same “family” as the viruses that cause Dengue Fever, West Nile Virus and Yellow Fever. Like these diseases, it is spread by mosquitos.

Where is it found?

According to World Health Organisation data, the virus is endemic (regularly found) in 24 countries in South East Asia and the Western Pacific. The first documented case of JEV was in Japan in 1871. Two cases of the disease were detected in Far North Queensland in 1998 and the disease occurs sporadically in the Torres Strait Islands. The Torres Strait Islands and Cape York Peninsula are monitored closely for incursions of the virus.

Recently, the disease was detected in southern Australia by a veterinarian undertaking a disease investigation in a piggery. Since this initial finding, JEV has been detected in a total of 21 pig farms in Victoria, NSW, SA and Qld (accurate as 7/3/2022). JEV has been confirmed in several people in these areas.

How does it spread?

Water birds (e.g. egrets and herons) are the main source of the virus. Mosquitos bite these birds and carry the virus-laden blood to other species. Like water birds, pigs appear to be another “amplifying” host and the virus can replicate in their blood to levels where mosquitos can bite pigs and then infect other animals. Mosquitos are the only way for the virus to travel. The virus cannot travel directly from bird to pig, pig to horse, horse to human etc.

What are the symptoms?

Encephalitis is the medical term for inflammation of the brain. Luckily, most human cases JEV infection are asymptomatic. Milder symptoms include neck stiffness, headache, vomiting and fever. However, more severe symptoms can include seizures, paralysis, coma and death. There is no treatment for the virus. Neurological changes are usually permanent.

Most infections in animals are asymptomatic. Disease in pigs and horses is more common, with reports in other species rare.

In pigs, the major presentation is for reproductive disturbances such as abortions, malformed and mummified foetuses. Adult boars may have swollen testicles and be infertile. Piglets that are born alive may be weak. When younger piglets become infected, they can develop symptoms ranging from depression through to paralysis, seizures and death.

In horses, symptoms can range from fever, and lethargy to a range of neurological signs including incoordination, difficulty swallowing, impaired vision, coma and death. It is important to note here that these neurological symptoms can look very similar to those of Hendra Virus.

What treatments are available?

There are no treatments for the disease in animals. A vaccine is available for use in horses and pigs in countries where the virus is endemic, but it is not yet registered for use in Australia.

The most effective thing that can be done at the moment is to reduce the chances of being bitten by mosquitoes. In people, insect repellent sprays, window screens and keeping your skin covered are all helpful. It is also important to reduce potential breeding sites for mosquitoes Rugs and animal-specific insect repellents on horses and pet pigs can assist in keeping them protected.

If you have any concerns about your self or your animals, please do not hesitate to seek further information from your health care professional or your vet.

—

Information sources:

Dr Debbie Thorne (co-author)
Australian Veterinary Association
Biosecurity Queensland
World Health Organisation

Resources

Tick Paralysis: Signs, Treatments and the Importance of Preventative Measures

August 4, 2021April 4, 2022by Maleny Vets

Tick Paralysis is condition caused by a species of tick found on the eastern seaboard of Australia called Ixodes holocyclus. These ticks are very prolific in Maleny and surrounds, making tick prevention ESSENTIAL to prevent serious illness and death.

Ixodes holocyclus is known as a ‘3 host tick’ because the tick goes through three development phases – each requiring a blood-meal from a warm-blooded host. Typically, larvae hatch form eggs in late February to April or May, followed by nymphs from March to September or October and then gradually the adult population from August to February, peaking around December. In Maleny and surrounds, we tend to see a surge in the ticks in August and September, when the temperature and humidity starts to rise. Under favourable conditions, a second life cycle may result in a second peak in May. However, infestation by adults can occur at any time of the year when conditions are suitable, even in mid-winter.

Tick envenomation in animals (especially pets) peaks in spring to mid-summer. Disease usually occurs after the attachment of a single adult female tick, but heavy infestations with nymphs or larvae can produce paralysis.

Signs of Envenomation

The clinical signs of disease are usually seen around three days after attachment. Early signs of tick paralysis include:

Incoordination (“looks drunk”) and reluctance to do normal exercise
change in bark or meow, grunting or a complete loss of voice
inappetence, vomiting or regurgitation
dilated pupils.

This can progress to falling over, unable to stand or sit, inability to swallow and exaggerated breathing. This can rapidly progress to complete paralysis, including an ability to breath and death.

Prevention

Over recent years, there have been significant advancements in prevention options for both dogs and cats. Options include topical “spot-ons”, monthly or three-monthly chews or tablets and collars (although collars are generally less reliable). There are also “combination products” that treat worms, heartworm, fleas and ticks. Please feel free to contact our knowledgeable staff to discuss which option best suits your needs.

Whilst these new products have made great inroads into preventing tick paralysis in our pets, no product is EVER 100% effective. It’s a very good idea to make a habit of checking your pet DAILY Feeling your way through their coat is often more effective that looking. Ticks do not “bury” under the skin but can be surrounded by a lumpy “crater” as the body tries to resist the toxin that’s being injected as the tick sucks. Be familiar with what ticks looks like – they start as pin-point brown nymphs, to flattened brown “shell-back” adults, then become grey-blue as they engorge on their blood meal.

PREVENTION SHOULD CONTINUE THROUGHOUT THE YEAR. Giving your pet “time off” from the preventatives exposes them to the effects of the tick toxin and therefore, the drugs needed to save their lives. The money “saved” during the non-prevention period will pale in comparison to the cost of treatment and the stress to you and your pet.

What to do if you find a tick on your pet

Be calm and try to keep your pet calm.
Remove the tick as soon as possible with “tick twisters” or with your fingernails. Try and avoid “squeezing” the tick in the process. The application of vaseline or methylated spirits serves no purpose.
Call the vet as soon as possible for further advice. If it is outside normal clinic hours, DO NOT WAIT! Delaying advice and potential treatment may decrease the chance of your pet surviving and often increases the level of treatment required.
DON’T offer food or water or try to syringe feed. Animals often lose the ability to swallow quite early in the progression of the condition. Food and water can be aspirated into their lungs leading to pneumonia.

Treatment

Antivenom

Treatment is centred around the administration of an antivenom. This is a commercially prepared product (like that for antivenoms for snakes, for example). Allergic reactions to the antivenom are very uncommon but can increase in frequency with multiple uses. Previous treatment IS NOT a reason to not treat your pet again.

Medications

Additional medications such as intravenous fluids, antibiotics (for pneumonia), airway dilators, anti-vomiting medications, diuretics, sedatives and pain relievers are often required. Some pets require supplementary oxygen by nasal tubes, some require full assisted ventilation.

Nursing Care

Experienced nursing care is essential. Frequent clinical exams detect changes in condition early. Many pets require assistance with toileting (they are unable to stand or walk, and their bladders often lose the ability to empty themselves).

Treatment does NOT guarantee the survival of your pet, but it dose give them a significantly better chance. The course and speed of recovery from Tick Paralysis is unpredictable.

The cost of treatment could be considered “expensive”. Complicated cases can run into thousands of dollars. It’s a good idea to ensure that Tick Paralysis treatment is covered in any pet insurance policy that you have.

The Paralysis Tick will remain a permanent member of our Maleny community. Even with many pets “protected”, the ticks’ life cycle will be supported by resident wildlife and other domestic animals. The appropriate use of preventative products significantly reduces the chances of your pet succumbing to a potentially fatal envenomation.

Prevention

Signs of Envenomation

The clinical signs of disease are usually seen around three days after attachment. Early signs of tick paralysis include:

Incoordination (“looks drunk”) and reluctance to do normal exercise
change in bark or meow, grunting or a complete loss of voice
inappetence, vomiting or regurgitation
dilated pupils.

This can progress to falling over, unable to stand or sit, inability to swallow and exaggerated breathing. This can rapidly progress to complete paralysis, including an ability to breath and death.

Prevention

What to do if you find a tick on your pet

Be calm and try to keep your pet calm.
Remove the tick as soon as possible with “tick twisters” or with your fingernails. Try and avoid “squeezing” the tick in the process. The application of vaseline or methylated spirits serves no purpose.
Call the vet as soon as possible for further advice. If it is outside normal clinic hours, DO NOT WAIT! Delaying advice and potential treatment may decrease the chance of your pet surviving and often increases the level of treatment required.
DON’T offer food or water or try to syringe feed. Animals often lose the ability to swallow quite early in the progression of the condition. Food and water can be aspirated into their lungs leading to pneumonia.

Treatment

Antivenom

Medications

Nursing Care

Treatment does NOT guarantee the survival of your pet, but it dose give them a significantly better chance. The course and speed of recovery from Tick Paralysis is unpredictable.

Resources

Arthritis in Cats

June 29, 2021June 20, 2023by Maleny Vets

Do you have an older furry feline companion at home that seems to be not quite so agile as they used to be? Maybe they’ve stopped walking outside with you to collect the mail. Don’t play in the garden quite so much as they used to? Feline arthritis (osteoarthritis) is one of the most underdiagnosed conditions in our feline friends.

Arthritis is usually a result of ongoing wear and tear and instability in joints with the most affected joints in the cat being elbows, hips and spine. Arthritis occurs when joint cartilage deteriorates and synovial fluid (the fluid in our joints) loses its lubricating properties so the movement of bone becomes less smooth, leading to discomfort and reduced mobility.

Signs of arthritis in cats can include:

Reduced movement – not wanting to jump up and off beds, sleeping in lower positions, inability to crouch or squat to urinate and defecate, sometimes leading to toileting accidents
Changes in grooming behaviour – reduced grooming that can cause a matted or ‘scurfy’ coat, or overgrooming leading to hair loss or self-trauma
Changes in personality – more aggressive or not wanting to be patted or brushed
Changes in activity levels

There are several treatment options for older cats with osteoarthritis including weight management, disease modifying osteoarthritic drugs (cartrophen), anti-inflammatories and pain killers as well as neutronceuticals and prescription diets, all which can play a role in keeping your feline companions more comfortable in their older years and colder months.

If you feels that your cat is exhibiting any of these symptoms please don’t hesitate to arrange an appointment with one of our veterinarians.

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