Common diseases and parasites

Common Diseases

Infectious diseases can spread from one animal to another. They can be caused by a variety of pathogens including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites.
Zoonotic diseases are those that can transmit from animals to humans.
Rabies is a viral disease causing severe inflammation of the brain and is almost always fatal.
Parvovirus primarily affects puppies and can result in severe diarrhoea and vomiting.
Canine distemper is a highly contagious and often fatal viral disease, causing a wide array of symptoms ranging from gastrointestinal problems to neurological issues.
Leptospirosis is a bacterial zoonotic disease that can result in kidney or liver failure.
Ringworm isn’t a worm at all, but a fungal infection that creates circular lesions on the skin.

Parasites live on or inside a host organism and may cause illness. They come in various forms, including worms, mites, and ticks.
Two common types of parasitic worms are roundworms and tapeworms.
- Roundworms are long and thin; they live in the intestine and can cause diarrhoea, bloating, and weight loss.
- Tapeworms are flat and segmented; they can cause weight loss, vomiting, and abdominal discomfort.
Fleas are external parasites that cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, anemia, and can transmit other parasites like tapeworms.
Ticks can transmit a host of serious illnesses, including Lyme disease.

Regular vaccinations can prevent many common diseases.
Regular worming and flea treatment is crucial for keeping both internal and external parasites under control.
Other preventative measures include good hygiene, quarantining new or sick animals, and avoiding contact with wild animals.
Prompt veterinary treatment for sick animals can prevent the spread of disease and can often be curative.