Symptoms of Encephalitis in Small Pets

Encephalitis in small pets usually presents with abnormal actions, swaying while walking, drawing circles while walking, unstable standing, falling down, and other symptoms. In the early stage of the illness, there are high levels of excitement, hypersensitivity, increased reflex function, constricted pupils, visual disorders, rapid breathing, increased pulse, irritability, anxiety, and fear. In the later stage, the main symptom is depression, with the head drooping, half-closed eyes, dull reactions, muscle weakness, and even sleepiness.

Causes of Encephalitis

Encephalitis can be divided into suppurative encephalitis and non-suppurative encephalitis. Suppurative encephalitis is mostly caused by suppurative bacteria, such as head trauma, suppurative inflammation near the head, and other factors, which can lead to the occurrence of encephalitis. The migration of parasite larvae into the brain tissue can also cause parasitic encephalitis. Non-suppurative encephalitis is mainly caused by secondary infections, such as canine distemper and rabies.

Examination for Encephalitis

If the encephalitis is caused by an infection of canine distemper, the following examinations are required: conjunctival strip test, fundus examination, chest X-ray, CSF antibody determination, and skin biopsy immunohistochemical examination. If the encephalitis is caused by a cryptococcal infection, examinations of the fundus, chest X-ray, skull X-ray, and nasal cytology are required, as well as antigen identification of serum culture.

Emergency Treatment for Encephalitis

If your dog shows symptoms such as foaming at the mouth, circling, difficulty walking, and muscle spasms, first try to calm the dog down and prevent it from running around. You can splash its head with cold water, which may help settle it down. Once the dog is calm, take it to a pet hospital as soon as possible. If this doesn't help, prepare a glass of water with plenty of sugar, making a thick syrup. Feed this to the dog and take it to the pet hospital. The dog's chances of recovery are low once it contracts this disease, so timely medical attention is essential.