What are the symptoms of meningitis and meningoencephalitis?

Fever. Intense pain, especially in the neck (stiffness, cries out when it is moved). Lethargy. Neurological signs: incoordination, seizures, behavioural changes. Reluctance to move

Is Meningitis and meningoencephalitis contagious?

Meningitis and meningoencephalitis does not spread directly between animals.

Sistema nervioso

Meningitis and meningoencephalitis

Inflammation of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord (and sometimes of the brain itself). It is serious and requires prompt treatment.

Severe🐕 Dogs🐈 Cats

This may be a veterinary emergency

URGENT: fever with neck pain, stiffness and neurological signs needs veterinary attention without delay.

Symptoms to watch for

• Fever
• Intense pain, especially in the neck (stiffness, cries out when it is moved)
• Lethargy
• Neurological signs: incoordination, seizures, behavioural changes
• Reluctance to move

Causes

Infectious (bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa) or immune-mediated (the immune system attacks the nervous system — common in young dogs of certain breeds).

Diagnosis

Neurological examination, blood tests, cerebrospinal fluid analysis, MRI.

Treatment

Depending on the cause: antibiotics/antifungals if infectious, immunosuppressants if immune-mediated. Early treatment greatly improves the prognosis.

Prevention

Difficult to prevent. Prompt detection and treatment are the most important thing.

When should you see the vet?

URGENT: fever with neck pain, stiffness and neurological signs needs veterinary attention without delay.

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.