Botulism is a rare condition that causes paralysis in dogs. Botulism is caused by ingesting the botulinum toxin, which is a substance produced by the bacteria Clostridium botulinum. Most cases of botulism in dogs are caused by eating dead animals or contaminated raw meat.
Are dogs susceptible to botulism?
Dogs are relatively resistant to the botulism toxin and toxicity is rare and has not been reported in cats. The most common way that dogs come in contact with the bacterial toxin is by consuming dead animals that contain the toxin, and the amount ingested is directly associated with the severity of the illness.
How common is botulism in puppies?
Botulism is a rare, potentially fatal disease in dogs. Your dog could acquire botulism as a result of ingesting the decomposing tissue of a dead animal, or plant material where the bacterium Clostridium botulinum has produced a toxin.
How do you know if a dog has botulism?
The signs of botulism are caused by muscle paralysis and include progressive motor paralysis, disturbed vision, difficulty chewing and swallowing, and progressive weakness. Death is usually due to paralysis of the lungs or heart.
What can I give my dog for botulism?
If botulism exposure is known or suspected before the onset of clinical signs, the botulinum antitoxin can be administered. The antitoxin prevents the botulinum toxin from binding to nerve endings and causing clinical signs. Once signs of paralysis develop, the antitoxin is not effective.
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