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Infecciosas

Tetanus

A disease caused by a bacterial toxin that affects the nerves and muscles. Uncommon in dogs and cats (they are fairly resistant), but serious.

Severe🐕 Dogs🐈 Cats

This may be a veterinary emergency

URGENT: if, following a wound, muscle stiffness, difficulty opening the mouth or an unusual facial expression appears, see the vet immediately.

Symptoms to watch for

  • Muscle stiffness
  • Difficulty opening the mouth ("lockjaw" / trismus)
  • Ears held erect and rigid, wrinkled forehead, characteristic facial expression
  • Muscle spasms triggered by stimuli
  • In severe cases: difficulty breathing

Causes

Toxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium tetani, which enters through deep, dirty wounds. The bacterium lives in the soil.

Diagnosis

Clinical diagnosis based on the characteristic signs together with a history of a wound.

Treatment

Wound cleaning, antitoxin, antibiotics, muscle relaxants and intensive care in a quiet environment free of stimuli. Recovery is slow.

Prevention

Clean and properly treat deep wounds, especially those contaminated with soil.

When should you see the vet?

URGENT: if, following a wound, muscle stiffness, difficulty opening the mouth or an unusual facial expression appears, see the vet immediately.

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.