In view of the increasing cases of dengue transmission in people, a worrying question arises: can puppies and kittens contract this virus?
Insects in general can cause more than one problem in each furry friend, leading to health complications.
Learn everything you need to know about this virus and your pets in our #TuesdayForPets
Scientists and veterinarians are almost certain that they cannot be directly infected with this virus like people, but they can contract other diseases such as Dirofilariasis and Leishmaniasis, which are also transmitted by mosquitoes, so we must be attentive to any bite we find on them.
What is Dirofilariasis? Commonly known as heartworm disease. It causes severe damage to the heart and lungs.
What is Leishmaniasis? It is a disease that affects the skin causing sores and affects internal organs such as the spleen, liver and bone marrow.
How are these diseases transmitted? A mosquito that has previously ingested blood from an animal infected with parasites, bites puppies or kittens, becoming recipients of the diseases and causing the total or almost total destruction of their red blood cells.
What are the symptoms?
Diarrhea, vomiting, lethargy, loss of appetite, skin ulcers, flaking.
How to prevent mosquitoes from biting your pet?
- Indoors or when walking in the park, use effective mosquito repellents specifically for pets
- Do not walk in places where there is stagnant water and do not have it at home.
- Be up to date with vaccines that prepare the immune system against a possible infection, and be up to date with deworming.
- Strengthen their immune system with specific supplements
- Multifunctional flea collars: some of these collars also repel mosquitoes and other insects. They can be a practical and long-lasting solution to keep mosquitoes away.
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What can it cause them?
-One of the most alarming conditions is anemia, caused by significant blood loss due to bites.
- Inflammation: the bitten area can become inflamed resulting in redness, irritation and pain.
- Anxiety: when experiencing an abnormal sensation of itching and discomfort, manifesting strange behaviors such as irritability and compulsive scratching, not understanding what is happening.
What is the treatment?
If you cannot take it to the vet immediately, we recommend:
- Gently clean the affected area using warm water, preventing secondary infections and removing any mosquito saliva residue.
- Apply cold compresses or ice wrapped in a cloth over the bite to reduce inflammation and relieve itching.
- Avoid excessive scratching in the affected area, so as not to worsen the irritation and not increase the risk of infection
When you take it to the vet, they will give it medicines that contain powerful antibiotics and soothing agents to prevent itching. Some medications are Antihistamines, Corticosteroids, topical medications.
It is important that any strange bite be taken to the vet so that they can check if it is serious or not and administer prescribed medications for a quick and complete recovery.