Whipworms
Disease Overview
Bordetella (also referred to as tracheobronchitis, canine cough [in dogs], and feline bordetellosis [in cats] ) is a highly contagious respiratory disease in cats and dogs caused by the bacteria Bordetella bronchiseptica. It causes inflammation of the trachea and bronchi.
Merck Animal Health Solutions
Transmission
Italicize Bordetella spreads through direct contact (licking, nuzzling), through the air (coughing or sneezing), or via contaminated fomites.3 Transmission can occur between dogs and cats.15
Clinical Signs3
- Dry, hacking cough (dogs)
- Retching
- Sneezing
- Watery nasal discharge
- Pneumonia, inappetence, fever, and lethargy in severe cases
Risk Factors
- Pets that come from shelters, rescue centers, breeding kennels, or pet stores
- Boarding at a kennel
- Pets that participate in events/competitions
- Multiple pet homes
References:
3. Ford R. Canine infectious tracheobronchitis. In: Greene CE, ed. Infectious Diseases of the Dog and Cat. 3rd ed. St. Louis, MO: Saunders/Elsevier; 2006:55.
15. Gaskell R, Dawson S, Radford A. Feline respiratory disease. In: Greene CE, ed. Infectious Diseases of the Dog and Cat. 3rd ed. St. Louis, MO: Saunders/Elsevier; 2006:147.
Disease Overview
Whipworms in the adult stage live in the large intestines of canines. Eggs are resistant to environmental extremes, which allows them to live outside for long periods.
Merck Animal Health Solutions
For Whipworms
Clinical Signs
- Weight loss
- Diarrhea with mucus
- Bloody stool
- Anemia
- Vomiting