What are the symptoms of leptospirosis?

Fever. Severe lethargy and weakness. Vomiting and loss of appetite. Jaundice (yellowish colour). Drinking and urinating a lot, or conversely urinating very little. Muscle pain

Is Leptospirosis contagious?

Leptospirosis does not spread directly between animals. However, it can affect people in certain circumstances.

Infecciosas

Leptospirosis

A bacterial disease that mainly affects the liver and kidneys. It is transmitted through water or soil contaminated with the urine of infected animals. It is a serious zoonosis.

Severe🐕 Dogs Zoonosis

This may be a veterinary emergency

URGENT if there is fever, jaundice and vomiting. Mention that leptospirosis is suspected: it is a zoonosis and requires precautions.

Symptoms to watch for

• Fever
• Severe lethargy and weakness
• Vomiting and loss of appetite
• Jaundice (yellowish colour)
• Drinking and urinating a lot, or conversely urinating very little
• Muscle pain

Causes

The Leptospira bacterium, present in the urine of rodents and other animals. A dog becomes infected by drinking or coming into contact with stagnant water, puddles or contaminated mud.

Diagnosis

Blood and urine tests, serology and PCR.

Treatment

Antibiotics and intensive supportive care (fluid therapy, management of kidney/liver failure). Hospitalisation in severe cases.

Prevention

VACCINATION (recommended, especially for dogs with access to rural areas or water), preventing the dog from drinking from puddles and stagnant water, and rodent control.

When should you see the vet?

URGENT if there is fever, jaundice and vomiting. Mention that leptospirosis is suspected: it is a zoonosis and requires precautions.

Consult a vet 24 h emergency vets nearby

WetAi guides you and takes you to the vet; it does not diagnose.

Notice: this information is for general guidance and educational purposes only. It does NOT replace diagnosis or treatment by a registered veterinary surgeon. If you notice any symptoms, always consult a professional. Wallapets accepts no responsibility for the use of this information without veterinary supervision.