Ureaplasmosis is a dangerous bacterial disease in cats and dogs. Symptoms and treatment of mycoplasmosis in dogs Ureaplasmosis in dogs symptoms

Mycoplasmosis is one of the most difficult diseases to diagnose in dogs. The problem is that the disease does not manifest itself for a long time, and the first symptoms can be distinguished with extreme exhaustion of the animal's body.

Causes of the disease

Mycoplasmosis is commonly understood as a group of diseases caused by pathogenic microorganisms of the Mollicutes class. Since there are several types of microorganisms (T-mycoplasmas, mycoplasmas, achholeplasmas), pathologies can manifest themselves in different systems and organs. Animals, in particular dogs, are characterized by the activity of mycoplasma - Mycoplasma cynos.

In nature, mycoplasmas are found everywhere, regardless of climatic conditions, and are included in the microflora of the respiratory and genital tracts of dogs. Studies have shown that in more than 20% of healthy animals, these microorganisms were found on the mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract.

Once in the body, mycoplasmas react with host cells and feed on them. In the process of life, pathogenic microorganisms release hydrogen peroxide and ammonia, and this process disrupts the normal functioning of healthy cells. Infection occurs by airborne, sexual, generic, feed or contact routes.

Mycoplasma cynos does not necessarily cause disease in a dog. If the animal has strong immunity, does not have oncological and chronic diseases, the pathology will not manifest itself. In weakened individuals, due to damage by pathogenic microorganisms, the following may occur:

conjunctivitis;
respiratory diseases;
diseases of the musculoskeletal system;
mastitis;
diseases of the genitourinary system (pyelonephritis, cystitis);
pathology of the liver, kidneys.

Mycoplasmas are especially dangerous for females bearing offspring, since infection leads to infertility, the birth of dead or sick puppies, and miscarriages.

Clinical picture

Until the necessary diagnostic studies are carried out, infection with mycoplasma cannot be determined. Pathology is manifested by symptoms inherent in a specific disease caused by Mycoplasma cynos damage to a specific organ.

The owner should be alert for the following signs:

redness and suppuration of the eyes, increased lacrimation;
runny nose;
stomach pain, diarrhea, or constipation;
problems with urination;
nausea, vomiting;
high temperature, fever;
pain and swelling of the joints, lameness;
poor appetite or lack of it;
low mobility, apathy;
anemia;
skin rashes (dermatitis, eczema, dermatosis).

Blurred clinical picture and similarity with other pathologies makes it difficult to make a diagnosis.

Diagnostics in the veterinary clinic

As mentioned above, mycoplasmas, which do not have their own cell wall, attach to the host cell and receive from it nutrients. Due to this, mycoplasmas adapt to the host cells and actively exchange proteins with them.

That is why the immune system cannot identify in time the harmful microorganisms that are the causative agents of the pathology.

The autoimmune process begins due to the fact that the immune system enters the fight not only with mycoplasma, but also with its own cells.

The main diagnostic method is the PCR method (polymer chain reaction), which allows you to determine the pathogen. big species diversity mycoplasmas, several studies are required: swabs from the trachea and bronchi, samples from the nasal mucosa, swabs from the eyes, and the reproductive system.

Also, the necessary diagnostic methods include blood cultures to determine the sensitivity of mycoplasmas to antibiotics, urine analysis for the presence of mycoplasmas in the genitourinary system.

Ultrasound and radiography, although they do not belong to mandatory instrumental studies, can reveal secondary pathologies.

Treatment Method

Treatment of pathology is complex. This is a long process that requires endurance and patience from the owner. Therapy is based on the use of antibacterial and symptom-relieving drugs. Mycoplasmas are unusually sensitive to antibiotics, in particular, to tetracycline drugs, the action of which is to suppress synthesis in non-nuclear microorganisms.

In the course of treatment, the veterinarian conducts studies with the help of which he determines the effectiveness of therapy. In the absence of the desired result, the treatment is adjusted, the replacement of drugs is carried out.

The dog is shown antibiotics of the tetracycline series or aminoglycosides (Doxycycline, Monocycline, etc.), as an alternative - Erythromycin, Tylosin, Kanamycin, Spiramycin, etc.

Since prolonged use of antibiotics can cause side effects and negatively affect the liver, the animal is prescribed hepatoprotectors (Hepatovet, Covertal, Legafition) for maintenance therapy.

The treatment regimen is compiled individually, depending on the stage of the pathology. Medicines are prescribed by a veterinarian. Give them to the dog strictly by the hour. The course of treatment varies from 10 days to 3 weeks.

The dosage of drugs is determined by the veterinarian based on the size of the animal and age. Overdose, replacement medicines without consulting a specialist increases the risk of side effects and complications.

It is important to consider that antibiotics of the tetracycline group are contraindicated in puppies. Pregnant bitches are treated immediately after a caesarean section.

childbirth naturally contraindicated. This is a necessary measure to save the life of the offspring. During pregnancy, puppies can become infected with mycoplasmosis from the mother in utero, in addition, they may develop pneumonia.

After birth, puppies are examined for the presence of mycoplasmas in the body.

In addition to antibiotics, the dog is shown antimicrobials of the group of macrolides, fluoroquinols (Ofloxacin, Ciproloxacin, Azithromycin, Levofloxacin), immunomodulators (Fosprenil, Miracle Bad, Gamavit), antifungal drugs (Fluconazole).

Probiotics and prebiotics are necessary to maintain normal intestinal microflora (Vetom 1.1, Procolin, etc.).

In the process of treating conjunctivitis that has developed against the background of infection with mycoplasmas, steroid ointments should not be used - this can lead to serious complications.

Remember that self-medication is dangerous for your pet!

Measures to prevent mycoplasmosis

As such, prevention of pathology does not exist. However, any disease is easier to prevent than to treat. That's why great value is attached to high-quality pet care and maintaining its immune system in the normal range.

The dog should eat well, receive vitamin and mineral complexes, be kept in comfortable conditions, walk and move a lot. During the walk, you must observe temperature regime, to prevent hypothermia of the animal. Timely vaccination, deworming and preventive examinations will help to avoid many diseases.

If you plan to get offspring from a dog, both partners must be examined for mycoplasmosis before mating. When buying a puppy, you need to make sure not only that he has vaccinations, but also that there are no mycoplasmas in his body.

If you suspect a pathology, you should immediately contact your veterinarian, since with timely treatment, the prognosis for the disease is favorable.

The article allows you to get only a general idea of what veterinarians have to deal with in practice and what you need to pay attention to in order to take a dog or puppy to a veterinary clinic in a timely manner, since no other advice can be effective in such situations.

It is recommended that you read other useful articles that the best RuNet site about puppies and dogs offers, as well as leave your comments with questions or descriptions of situations that you had to deal with in practice.

Mycoplasmosis in a dog, what is it, is it dangerous for humans in animals?

Mycoplasmosis is an infectious disease caused by mycoplasmas. The most common carriers of bacteria are cats, dogs and rats. Infection of healthy animals from sick animals occurs by contact or by airborne droplets.

An animal infected with mycoplasmosis does not pose a danger to humans.

Mycoplasmosis in animals symptoms, what tests to take, how much does a blood test cost, how they check in the clinic, laboratory diagnostics

If mycoplasmosis is suspected, to confirm the diagnosis, a veterinary clinic may prescribe blood tests or a wash from the mucous membrane. The cost of bacteriological examination for mycoplasmas will be about 1,500 rubles, enzyme immunoassay will cost less - 300 rubles. Diagnosis is made by detecting in the blood serum the presence of an antigen of the Mycoplasma genus and antibodies of the IqG (G) class.

Mycoplasmosis in dogs and a puppy is treated or not, should it be treated, what is better and how

Treatment of mycoplasmosis in puppies and adult dogs is a rather lengthy process. Mycoplasmas are considered sensitive to antibiotics of the tetracycline group, including doxycycline and levomycetin. Aminoglycosides, macrolides, fluoroquinolones, and tylosin may also be prescribed. There are no preventive measures and vaccines against mycoplasmosis in animals.

Mycoplasmosis in dogs antibiotic sensitivity

Mycoplasmas react to antibiotics of the tetracycline group and show resistance to beta-lactams and sulfonamides. Bacteria are also sensitive to erythromycin and nitrofuran derivatives. It is contraindicated for puppies and pregnant bitches to prescribe levomycetin and tetracys.

Mycoplasmosis in dogs in the lungs, drops in the nose

Mycoplasmas can cause respiratory diseases, diseases of the upper respiratory tract, pneumonia, as they are often part of the permanent microflora of the mucous membranes. To relieve swelling and runny nose, the animal can wash the nose with saline, or instill interferon, polydex or isofra.

Mycoplasmosis in dogs is dangerous for cats, ways of infection and transmission

Although the mycoplasmas in dogs and cats are different (Mycoplasma cynos is isolated in dogs, and Mycoplasma gatae and Mycoplasma felis in cats), the possibility that a sick dog can infect a cat is not excluded. Mycoplasmas are transmitted by airborne droplets, as well as by direct contact of animals.

Mycoplasmosis in a dog smells from the mouth and vomits, pathogen, incubation period

Duration Data incubation period mycoplasmosis are too different. The disease may appear after 3 days, and sometimes not manifest itself for several months. Mycoplasmas can infect a wide area of the animal body.

The smell from the mouth and vomiting indicate that the disease is started and lasts for quite a long time. High probability of death.

Mycoplasmosis in dogs treatment with doxycycline, is it possible to knit

For mycoplasmosis in dogs, doxycycline is often prescribed, as mycoplasmas are susceptible to this drug. You should be prepared for the fact that the treatment will take quite a long time. It is not permissible to knit a sick animal.

Firstly, the patient's body is too weak, secondly, mycoplasmosis is a contagious disease that can easily be transmitted from a sick animal to a healthy one, and thirdly, mycoplasmas can cause significant harm to future offspring.

Mycoplasmosis in dogs - contact of a healthy and sick dog, prognosis, consequences, whether it is transmitted to pregnant women

With mycoplasmosis, contact between healthy and sick animals should be avoided. The disease is easily transmitted by airborne droplets or when using the same objects, bowls, etc. Prevention or vaccine against mycoplasmas has not been developed, and the consequences of the disease can be sad.

If a pregnant dog becomes ill with mycoplasmosis, then most likely she is threatened with a miscarriage or the birth of dead puppies.

A corneal ulcer causes pain and suffering to the animal. It can occur in a dog or cat of any age and any breed. Regardless of the cause...

Mycoplasmosis is determined only in the laboratory

Mycoplasmas are capable of disrupting the normal functioning of the immune system, and they use fibrous exudate to protect themselves from antibodies. Characteristic of a bacterial infection, it leads to a chronic course of the process. This not only complicates the diagnosis, but also significantly complicates the treatment of mycoplasmosis.

Characteristically, as pathogenic microorganisms, mycoplasmas act only in case of weakening of the protective resources of the organism and the addition of any other viral or bacterial flora.

Bacteria of this species, causing systemic pathologies of the body, are not able to lead to an inflammatory reaction if the animal is completely healthy.

Mycoplasmosis is diagnosed only according to laboratory data, since it is difficult to differentiate it from other inflammatory diseases. In most cases, the animal is first treated with antibiotics to reduce inflammation, and only after repeated relapses is the decision made to conduct special tests.

Symptoms of mycoplasmosis

The dog becomes lethargic

In dogs, mycoplasmosis manifests itself in the form of conjunctival lesions, genitourinary infections, and respiratory tract infections. Most animals diagnosed with mycoplasmosis feel well, as it is characterized by a chronic or even asymptomatic course.

The first sign indicating the presence of mycoplasmas is conjunctivitis. The mucous membrane of the eye becomes inflamed, serous or purulent discharge is observed. The process is sluggish, poorly amenable classical methods therapy.
Very often, mycoplasmas are found in the urinary tract. In males, they cause recurrent balanoposthitis, urethritis, swelling of the scrotum and prostate. There may be a decrease in sperm motility. Females give birth to non-viable puppies, miscarriages, intractable vaginitis are often observed. Puppies born to an infected mother die in the first week as they develop acute pneumonia.
Respiratory tract infections: rhinitis, bronchitis are also detected in adults. The dog sneezes and rubs his nose with his paws, a viscous secret is released from the nostrils. Cough is observed most often at night and in the morning, during the day the pet seems lethargic, appetite disappears. Animals with pathologies of the middle respiratory tract can get pneumonia.
In the case of the transfer of mycoplasmas into the joint cavity, an inflammatory process begins like arthritis. The dog suffers from pain in the inflamed joint, it is enlarged to the touch, the local temperature is elevated. The animal moves stiffly, limps, does not want to go for a walk.
Skin infections: dermatitis, eczema and other inflammations can be provoked both by autoimmune reactions to the action of mycoplasmas, and directly by bacteria. They get complicated.

Treatment

In case of eye damage, local treatment is also prescribed.

If a veterinarian has diagnosed mycoplasmosis in a dog whose symptoms and treatment are carried out according to the classical scheme, then the owner is required to be patient. Medications that help well in the treatment of this complex disease have a number of side effects and are toxic enough to make the animal feel bad during the treatment period. Usually, the doctor prescribes two antibacterial drugs at once, such as Tylosin, Levomycetin or Doxycycline.

The combined use of two antibiotics at once guarantees complete suppression of the pathogenic activity of mycoplasmas.

In addition to antibiotic therapy, the veterinarian necessarily prescribes hepatoprotectors, immunomodulators and enzyme preparations. Protection of the liver from the toxic effects of antibiotics, restoration of the body's defenses and assistance digestive system This is the task of auxiliary therapies.

In addition to the main methods, I widely use symptomatic and homeopathic treatment in therapy.

With conjunctivitis, drops and ointments are prescribed that protect the cornea and relieve inflammation of the mucosa. For arthritis, painkillers (Ketanol), local applications and compresses on the affected joint are used. Excellent helps to reduce the intensity of inflammation in the joint compress with the drug "Dimexide", which is an anti-inflammatory agent and is a conductor in the tissue of any antibacterial agents.

Puppy females diagnosed with mycoplasmosis are treated without waiting for the end of pregnancy. Upon reaching the deadline, the veterinarian makes C-section so that the puppies are not infected through the female genital tract.

Prevention

Happy dog is healthy

A pathology that is difficult to diagnose is easier to prevent than to cure, so owners should protect their pet as much as possible from the possibility of mycoplasma activation. The following rules must be observed:

Avoid hypothermia of the animal, do not load the pet so much that it falls from fatigue. Overwork lowers the immune system.
Stress also negatively affects the state of the immune system, so you need to protect your pet from them.
Mating can cause infection of a male or female, and the titles of the manufacturer are not at all a guarantee of his health. Self-respecting nurseries and breeders must submit a health certificate for their pet, and require the same document from a mating partner.
Places where stray dogs congregate, yards full of cats and walking pets are also breeding grounds for various diseases. It is advisable to walk the dog outside the places frequently visited by other animals.

In a short video, the veterinarian explains the causes of mycoplasmosis, the complexity of its diagnosis and treatment.

Mycoplasmosis is a group of infectious diseases of humans and animals caused by microorganisms from the class Mollicutes. The disease is characterized mainly by a subacute and chronic course, with damage to the mucous membranes (eyes, upper respiratory tract, urogenital tract), as well as the musculoskeletal system and skin.

The causative agents of mycoplasmosis are the smallest (0.2-0.3 microns) and the most simply arranged prokaryotes, demanding on nutrient media, gram-negative, facultative anaerobic.

Mycoplasmas are extremely polymorphic microorganisms. In smears prepared from organs and cultures, rounded, annular, oval, coccoid and filamentous formations are found. Cells have a different size, which can vary from 125 to 600 nm.

The class Mollicutes (lat.: mollis - "soft"; cutis - "skin") includes more than 80 genera; three families: mycoplasma (Micoplasma), ureaplasma (Ureaplasma), and acholeplasma (Acholeplasma).

In the pathogenesis of mycoplasmosis, a certain role is played by the ability of mycoplasmas to stimulate the proliferation of the host cells surrounding them. Due to this, they can contribute to indirect tissue damage, causing an increase in cellular immune responses (CTH), as well as increasing the sensitivity of cells to viruses, because Many viruses multiply intensively in dividing cells.

Some types of mycoplasmas are part of the saprophytic microflora, constantly living on the mucous membranes of the oral cavity, upper respiratory tract, gastrointestinal and urogenital tracts of humans and animals. For example, M. gatae is a commensal of the mucous membrane of the eyes and upper respiratory tract of cats. A person can be a natural reservoir for at least 17 types of mycoplasmas. More than 30 types of mycoplasmas are causative agents of various diseases.

The clinical course and severity of symptoms of mycoplasmosis depends on the type of pathogen and the immune resistance of the organism.

In immunoreactive animals, mycoplasmosis is asymptomatic. Such individuals are hidden carriers, they release the pathogen into the external environment and are a source of infection for other animals.

Combinations of mycoplasmosis with respiratory viral infections are not uncommon. Opportunistic mycoplasmas can cause disease in immunocompromised animals. These are endogenous infections caused by associations of mycoplasmas with other microorganisms.

One of the most common symptoms is conjunctivitis. Inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eyes can be one- and two-sided. By the nature of the discharge: serous, serous-catarrhal, and even purulent (in case of secondary microflora). With a long course, especially in the case of a combination with a viral infection, or pyogenic microflora, inflammation can spread to other parts of the eye. This can lead to serious ophthalmic disorders.

With the defeat of the respiratory system with mycoplasmosis, various symptoms can be observed: from rhinitis to bronchopneumonia. Discharge from the nasal passages (from serous to purulent), sneezing, coughing are noted. With a long course of mycoplasmic bronchitis and bronchopneumonia, irreversible changes develop in the respiratory organs, which lead to such consequences as bronchiectasis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

With mycoplasmosis in dogs and cats, lesions of the oral mucosa are very often observed - gingivitis, which, depending on the duration of the course, can be both superficial and erosive-ulcerative (especially when mycoplasmosis is combined with other pathogens of a viral or bacterial nature). Chronic gingivitis can lead to periodontal disease, which eventually leads to tooth loss.

When the organs of the urogenital tract are affected, various symptoms can be observed. In severe cases of mycoplasmosis, embryo resorption, abortion are possible, puppies and kittens are born underdeveloped, there is a high neonatal mortality in the first days. In bitches, recurrent vaginitis, miscarriages, and stillbirths are recorded; in males - balanoposthitis, urethritis, prostatitis, orchiepididymitis, swelling of the scrotum, reduced fertility.

Mycoplasma infection that occurs with damage to the joints (chronic fibrinous-purulent polyarthritis, tendosynovitis) can develop as a result of the spread of the pathogen from the foci of active or latent infection from the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract, genitourinary tract, conjunctiva. This clinical picture is typical for debilitated animals and animals with immunosuppression. Symptoms include chronic intermittent claudication, unwillingness to move, joint pain, swelling and swelling of the joints, possibly with fever and general malaise. M. spumans infection has been reported to be associated with polyarthritis syndrome in young Greyhounds.

Skin lesions in mycoplasmosis can be manifested by itchy dermatoses of varying severity.

Diagnosis of mycoplasmosis can be carried out by various methods of laboratory research. Most effective ways laboratory diagnostics are serological studies (RSK, ELISA, RNGA, etc.) and the method of polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The diagnostic efficiency of PCR depends on the quality of material sampling for research and on the concentration of DNA fragments in the biological material. In case of violation of the sampling technique, as well as in cases of recent infection with mycoplasmosis, false negative results may be obtained. Growing a culture of mycoplasma requires the use of special transport and nutrient media.

Treatment of mycoplasmosis requires systemic (tablets, injections) and local (drops) administration of antibacterial drugs that are active against these pathogens. Mycoplasmas are sensitive to antibiotics of the tetracycline group, macrolides, lincosamides, and also to fluoroquinolones. A good therapeutic effect is observed when using combined drugs.

Given that the clinical manifestation of mycoplasmosis is more often observed in animals with weakened immune systems, it is advisable to include immunomodulators in the treatment regimen.

With mycoplasmosis occurring against the background viral infection need to prescribe antiviral drugs. And when mycoplasmosis is combined with another bacterial infection, sensitivity and resistance to antibiotic therapy should be taken into account.

Immunity in mycoplasmosis is often short-lived and depends on the intensity and form of the infectious process. A variety of pathogen types, as well as the presence of immunosuppression in diseased animals, often leads to relapses of the disease.

Prevention of mycoplasmosis is reduced to the timely detection and treatment of sick animals. Vaccination has not been developed.

Mycoplasmas (prokaryotes) are small single-celled organisms widely distributed in nature. They are found in the human and animal body, on plants, in the soil, etc.

Attaching to the host cell, mycoplasmas feed on it, receive useful substances necessary for growth. "Disguised", they violate the process of recognition of substances and cells alien to the body. This can cause an immune response to fight your own body (an autoimmune process).

Mycoplasmosis is often accompanied by a secondary infection caused by bacteria. In this case, exudate is released with a large amount of fibrinogen, which protects mycoplasmas from the attack of antibodies, the action of antimicrobial drugs. Therefore, it is difficult to treat the disease. Often it becomes chronic.

Pathological conditions develop under the action of mycoplasma waste products. The infectious process extends to the respiratory organs, mammary glands, joints, genitals, nervous system, urinary tract.

The disease affects both small and medium-sized dogs (Spitz, pugs, etc.) and large ones (Labradors, Rottweilers, German Shepherds, etc.).

Manifestation

The development of the disease depends on the characteristics of the pathogen and the susceptibility of the dog's body. The incubation period in each case is different. A short one lasts from 4 to 7 days, a long one - up to 25. On average - from 9 to 12 days. The mechanism of disease development is poorly understood.

For humans, most mycoplasmas that infect animals do not pose a danger. However, veterinarians recommend following the rules of personal hygiene when in contact with a sick pet. This is especially true for young children, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems.

In dogs, mycoplasmas cause diseases of the genitourinary system:

balanoposthitis;
orchitis;
epidymitis;
prostatitis;
swelling of the scrotum;
hypo- and aspermia;
salpingitis;
vaginitis;
pyometra;
infertility;
abortion;
pyelonephritis;
glomerulonephritis;
urolithiasis;
carcinoma of the bladder, urethra.

Affected bitches give birth to dead, non-viable or weak, poorly developed puppies with low birth weight.

If the disease is detected during pregnancy, treatment is not carried out until childbirth. At the same time, a bitch is not allowed to give birth on her own. Mycoplasmosis can be transmitted to puppies during passage through the birth canal. Carry out a caesarean section.

Eye damage is manifested by lacrimation, inflammation of the conjunctiva, redness, blepharospasm, the appearance of catarrhal or purulent contents. Sneezing, dry cough, rhinitis are possible. Owners confuse the symptoms of mycoplasmosis with the common cold or allergies. Untimely access to a doctor leads to the onset of the disease.

Canine mycoplasmosis of the joints manifests itself in the form of arthritis, purulent polyarthritis, tendosynovitis, cartilage erosion. The limbs swell, the joints swell, and there is severe pain.

When feeling in places of inflammation, bumps are found. Stiffness in movements, lameness are characteristic. In severe cases, the pet refuses to walk. If arthritis has been diagnosed, but there is no response to treatment, testing for mycoplasmas is mandatory.

A sign of skin infection is ulcers and abscesses. Treatment helps, but new wounds keep popping up. Perhaps the development of dermatitis caused by an autoimmune reaction, chronic eczema.

Mycoplasmosis affects the respiratory tract more often in puppies and animals with diseases of the bronchial epithelium. The result is pneumonia.

In severe cases, body temperature rises, there is no appetite, gastrointestinal disorders are possible. intestinal tract(diarrhea, vomiting). The dog becomes lethargic, loses interest in life.

Infection occurs sexually, by airborne droplets, through household items, during passage through the birth canal. Young animals and those with weakened immune systems are more likely to get sick.

Diagnostics

The symptoms of mycoplasmosis are similar to those of many diseases. This is the difficulty of its timely diagnosis. During the diagnosis, it is necessary to determine the type, number of mycoplasmas, their effect on the dog's body.

To determine the causative agent of the disease, they take a general and biochemical blood test, a urine test. Swabs are taken from the bronchi, trachea, mucous membranes of the genitourinary system, smears, serological fluid of the joints, prostate juice, etc.

For bacteriological examination, samples are frozen and delivered to the laboratory within two days.

They also conduct laboratory studies of secretions by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR), serological methods, stain smears according to Romanovsky-Giemsa.

Types of mycoplasmas are distinguished by cultural (sensitivity to digitonin), biochemical (enzymatic properties, urease production), and antigenic characteristics.

Treatment

Used to treat mycoplasmosis antimicrobial agents(tablets Tetracycline, Doxycycline, Levomycetin, Erythromycin, Aminoglycosides, Cephalosporins). Levomycetin is not prescribed for pregnant females. Mycoplasmosis in a puppy under 6 months of age is not treated with tetracyclines. The pathogen is resistant to sulfonamides and some beta-lactams.

To ease the load on the liver, hepatoprotectors are prescribed (capsules Phosphogliv, Essliver, Essentiale). The use of immunomodulators and stimulants is shown.

Symptomatic therapy is also prescribed. For example, with arthritis - painkillers, anti-inflammatory drugs. Ointments containing steroids are not used.

It is almost impossible to sterilize the body from mycoplasmas. It is considered possible to control the reproduction and aggressiveness of the pathogen.

After treatment, repeated laboratory tests are mandatory. The analysis may give a false positive result if the infection was destroyed recently or in the presence of antibodies developed as a result of mycoplasmosis. They may come to combat readiness in response to another infectious disease.

Prevention

To prevent infection:

Maintaining the dog's immunity high level will avoid infection or manifestation of recurrence of mycoplasmosis.

Causes of the disease

conjunctivitis;
respiratory diseases;
diseases of the musculoskeletal system;
mastitis;
diseases of the genitourinary system (pyelonephritis, cystitis);
pathology of the liver, kidneys.

Mycoplasmas are especially dangerous for females bearing offspring, since infection leads to infertility, the birth of dead or sick puppies, and miscarriages.

Clinical picture

The owner should be alert for the following signs:

redness and suppuration of the eyes, increased lacrimation;
runny nose;
stomach pain, diarrhea, or constipation;
problems with urination;
nausea, vomiting;
high temperature, fever;
pain and swelling of the joints, lameness;
poor appetite or lack of it;
low mobility, apathy;
anemia;
skin rashes (dermatitis, eczema, dermatosis).

Blurred clinical picture and similarity with other pathologies makes it difficult to make a diagnosis.

Diagnostics in the veterinary clinic

As mentioned above, mycoplasmas, which do not have their own cell wall, attach themselves to the host cell and receive nutrients from it. Due to this, mycoplasmas adapt to the host cells and actively exchange proteins with them.

That is why the immune system cannot identify in time the harmful microorganisms that are the causative agents of the pathology.

The autoimmune process begins due to the fact that the immune system enters the fight not only with mycoplasma, but also with its own cells.

The main diagnostic method is the PCR method (polymer chain reaction), which allows you to determine the pathogen. A large species diversity of mycoplasmas requires several studies: swabs from the trachea and bronchi, samples from the nasal mucosa, smears from the eyes, and the reproductive system.

Also, the necessary diagnostic methods include blood cultures to determine the sensitivity of mycoplasmas to antibiotics, urine analysis for the presence of mycoplasmas in the genitourinary system.

Ultrasound and radiography, although they do not belong to mandatory instrumental studies, can reveal secondary pathologies.

Treatment Method

The dog is shown antibiotics of the tetracycline series or aminoglycosides (Doxycycline, Monocycline, etc.), as an alternative - Erythromycin, Tylosin, Kanamycin, Spiramycin, etc.

Since prolonged use of antibiotics can cause side effects and adversely affect the functioning of the liver, the animal is prescribed hepatoprotectors (Hepatovet, Covertal, Legafition) for maintenance therapy.

The dosage of drugs is determined by the veterinarian based on the size of the animal and age. Exceeding the dosage, replacing drugs without consulting a specialist increases the risk of side effects and complications.

It is important to consider that antibiotics of the tetracycline group are contraindicated in puppies. Pregnant bitches are treated immediately after a caesarean section.

Childbirth in a natural way is contraindicated. This is a necessary measure to save the life of the offspring. During pregnancy, puppies can become infected with mycoplasmosis from the mother in utero, in addition, they may develop pneumonia.

After birth, puppies are examined for the presence of mycoplasmas in the body.

Probiotics and prebiotics are necessary to maintain normal intestinal microflora (Vetom 1.1, Procolin, etc.).

In the process of treating conjunctivitis that has developed against the background of infection with mycoplasmas, steroid ointments should not be used - this can lead to serious complications.

Remember that self-medication is dangerous for your pet!

Measures to prevent mycoplasmosis

As such, prevention of pathology does not exist. However, any disease is easier to prevent than to treat. Therefore, great importance is attached to the quality care of the pet and maintaining its immune system in the normal range.

The dog should eat well, receive vitamin and mineral complexes, be kept in comfortable conditions, walk and move a lot. During the walk, you need to observe the temperature regime, to prevent hypothermia of the animal. Timely vaccination, deworming and preventive examinations will help to avoid many diseases.

If you suspect a pathology, you should immediately contact your veterinarian, since with timely treatment, the prognosis for the disease is favorable.

Unfortunately, dogs suffer from bacterial infections just like humans. However, one should not mean only bronchitis and pneumonia by such infections, very often the genitourinary system of a dog is also affected by a bacterial infection. Such a bacterial disease is ureaplasmosis, which is caused by bacteria of the family.

Ways of transmission of ureaplasmosis are:

Sexual contact with an infected dog.
Generic activity, from mother to puppies.
Sharing hygiene products with an infected dog.

Pathogens are in the body of 80% of animals, and do not bring discomfort, the symptoms of the disease appear only if a certain level of concentration of bacteria in the body is exceeded.

The consequences of this disease can be:

In females: salpingitis, vaginitis, spontaneous abortions, the birth of unviable puppies.
In males: balanoposthitis, orchitis, prostatitis, aspermia, hypospermia,
Common to both sexes of dogs are such problems with the genitourinary system as: pyelonephritis, glomerulonephritis, urolithiasis.
Infertility.

Signs and symptoms of the disease

The incubation period of ureaplasmosis varies within from 3 to 40 days. However, the owners do not suspect that their pet has such a disease, as they turn to the veterinarian with a completely different symptomatology. Microscopic bacteria can infect the animal's eyes, reproductive organs, respiratory system gastrointestinal tract and even provoke arthritis. In addition, part of the life cycle of ureaplasmas takes place in red blood cells, which leads to their destruction, against the background of this process, the animal develops jaundice and severe anemia.

This bacterial infection is characterized by special structure of a bacterial cell- it does not have a wall, otherwise, in turn, it does not allow the animal's body to form a stable immunity to it.

The symptomatology of the manifestation of ureaplosmosis in each animal is individual and depends on the immunity of the animal and the "localization" of the infection. The main features are:

Apathy.
Lack of appetite.
Paleness of the mucous membranes.
Slight increase in body temperature.
Seizures.
Vomiting, diarrhea.

Diagnosis and treatment

Since the absence of any symptoms in ureaplasmosis is a fairly common phenomenon, and if symptoms occur, they are applicable to many bacterial and infectious diseases, then it is impossible to diagnose ureaplasmosis by one clinical picture. Late diagnosis of the disease leads to rapid adaptation of bacteria in the carrier's body and, as a result, the disease will respond poorly to standard treatment and ureaplasmosis can become chronic.

To make a correct diagnosis, it is necessary to conduct clinical tests of blood, urine and feces, it is not advisable to conduct smear tests, since it is extremely difficult to see small ureaplasmas in a smear. Also, the complexity of diagnosing lies in the constant fluctuation in the number of infected cells in an animal. The most reliable diagnostic method is inoculation of pathological material on a nutrient medium.

Ureaplasmosis differs from other bacterial infections in its great resistance to many well-known antibiotics. Therefore, it is very important to treat the pet with the drug prescribed by the veterinarian.

For the treatment of ureaplasmosis, antibiotics macrolides and quinolones are used, antibiotics of the tetracycline series are sometimes used, but quite often they may not give the intended effect, it is also better not to use sulfonamides, because of their low efficiency. In parallel with this, drugs are used to stimulate the immune system and physiotherapy. Sometimes animals are given homeopathic preparations, however, the effectiveness of their treatment has not been proven.

Despite a good initial response to treatment, the animal may relapse, so it is important that the pet completes the full course of medication, despite possible side effects. Also, do not forget that against the background of a decrease in immunity due to ureaplasmosis, a dog may experience a number of concomitant diseases, such as conjunctivitis.

During the treatment of secondary diseases, it is better not to use non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, as they increase the area of bacterial damage in the dog's body.

Prevention

Unfortunately, there is no vaccine against ureaplasmosis, and since the incubation period lasts more than a month, it is often almost impossible to find the source of infection. To prevent possible infection, the following recommendations should be followed:

Once every six months, a complete preventive examination of the dog is carried out.
Avoid casual sexual contact while walking.
Before mating, carefully check the intended partner, require a certificate of health of the animal.
Strengthen the dog's immunity, if necessary, give the animal drugs that increase the body's resistance to infections.
Do not allow the use of joint hygiene devices for several animals at the same time.

There is an opinion that ureaplasmosis can be transmitted from a dog to a person, therefore it is very important to observe personal hygiene measures while caring for a sick pet; infected dogs should not be allowed to enter children and pregnant women at all.

Problems with the gastrointestinal tract. But the list of diseases of this type is much wider. In particular, these include ureaplasmosis. Both cats and dogs get sick. Unfortunately, people are also susceptible to the disease.

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Cells are destroyed both under the direct action of ureaplasma, and due to the "inadequate" behavior of the immune system, which begins to destroy its own tissues. In severe cases, anemia develops, and this can happen very quickly.

Note that ureaplasmosis in cats and dogs, as a rule, is completely asymptomatic. But this does not mean at all that the animal will happily live with a latent form of infection until the end of its days. At the slightest decrease in immunity due to bad, etc., the clinical picture can develop very quickly.

So, if ureaplasma struck reproductive system, then in animals can be observed , development is possible etc. Also, a non-obvious symptom is a suddenly developed infertility from manufacturers.

Read also: Laktostasis in dogs: causes, diagnosis, treatment

In general, making an accurate diagnosis in this case is a very difficult matter. There can be a lot of reasons that cause symptoms similar to those described above. So the final diagnosis is made only on the basis of a complete clinical examination, including blood, urine and stool tests.

Microscopic detection of the causative agent is quite difficult, since various forms can differ significantly from each other, and simply examining small ureaplasmas in a smear can be extremely difficult. The difficulty lies in the fact that the number of infected cells fluctuates greatly from day to day, which also does not at all simplify the process of diagnosing the disease. Much more reliable inoculation of pathological material on nutrient media.

In this case, it is possible with 100% probability to determine the exact type of pathogen and “test” it for sensitivity to antibacterial agents. By the way, how is ureaplasmosis treated?

Methods of treatment and prevention

Important! Even with a good response to therapy, the possibility of relapse should not be ruled out, which happens quite often. It is for this reason that it is very important to treat the animal with a full course of the drug, even if the latter has some side effects.

UROGENITAL INFECTIONS IN DOGS

Ureaplasmosis, or mycoplasmosis is a sexually transmitted disease caused by a group of bacteria called mycoplasmas. Its second name is ureaplasmosis, which has become even more popular than the main one, the disease received for the ability of some mycoplasmas to split urea, that is, to ureolysis.

An important feature of ureaplasma, which distinguishes it from other mycoplasmas, is the ability to hydrolyze urea to ammonia, i.e. the presence of urease activity (hence the name of the microorganism).

Types of mycoplasmas:

- Ureaplasma urealyticum(ureaplasmosis)

- Mycoplasma primatum, Mycoplasma spermatophilum, Mycoplasma penetrans are little studied and are of only scientific interest so far.

- Mycoplasma hominis and Mycoplasma genitalium have been studied in more detail. Hereinafter, only these two species are meant by mycoplasmas.

Infection occurs:

- during sexual contact

- during childbirth.

The duration of the incubation period for acute mycoplasmosis can vary from 3 days to 3-5 weeks, sometimes up to 2 months. There is evidence that the average duration of the incubation period for inflammation of the urethra - the urethra - is 19 days.

Mycoplasmas are often found in chronic gynecological diseases: vaginitis, bartholinitis, cervicitis, endometritis, inflammatory processes in abdominal cavity. In association with other microflora, myco - and ureaplasmas are involved in the formation of bacterial vaginosis.

Asymptomatic forms (or mycoplasmosis) are not accompanied by an organism reaction in the form of inflammation. With full immunity, carriage can continue indefinitely without negative consequences for the organism in which mycoplasmas persist (but the carrier can be a source of transmission of infection to sexual partners. When immunity is weakened (the reasons for which may be different - malnutrition, hypothermia, stress, general illness, pregnancy , childbirth, abortion, etc.) carriage ceases to be asymptomatic, signs of inflammation appear and the disease develops.There is evidence that approximately 40% of all inflammatory diseases of the genitourinary organs are caused by mycoplasmas.Adapting to long-term existence in a particular organism, myco- and ureaplasmosis difficult to treat, often recur, lead to complications.

Methods of treatment. A proven method of treating diseases associated with ureaplasmas and ureaplasma positivity is antibiotic therapy. Two groups of antibiotics are mainly used - macrolides (azalides) and quinolones (fluorine and difluorine). The use of teracycline antibiotics (doxycycline) is not recommended due to the presence of resistant strains. The effectiveness of the use of immunostimulants, enzyme preparations, local and physiotherapeutic treatment, homeopathic remedies has not yet been proven.