Infectious Disease and Population Density

Infectious DiseaseInfectious Diseaseand Population Densityand Population Density

Types of PathogensTypes of Pathogens

VirusesViruses BacteriaBacteria FungiFungi OthersOthers

– RickettsiaRickettsia– ProtozoaProtozoa– ParasitesParasites

Always assume every animal is shedding

pathogens

Shelter StandardsShelter Standards

ASV Shelter Standards

Design ConsiderationsDesign ConsiderationsCat Communal HousingCat Communal Housing 9 square feet per cat.9 square feet per cat. Separate areas for each cat.Separate areas for each cat.

– Eating and drinking.Eating and drinking.

– Litter box.Litter box.

– Sleeping & resting.Sleeping & resting.

– Play and environmental enrichment.Play and environmental enrichment.

Perching areas at multiple levels.Perching areas at multiple levels. Glass panel to hallway with benches, so visitors Glass panel to hallway with benches, so visitors

can observe without touching ;-).can observe without touching ;-).

Design ConsiderationsDesign ConsiderationsDog RunsDog Runs Solid divider between runsSolid divider between runs

– prevents “nose to nose” contactprevents “nose to nose” contact– 4 feet for small to medium dogs4 feet for small to medium dogs– 5 feet for large dogs5 feet for large dogs

Design ConsiderationsDesign ConsiderationsNo dividers to prevent “nose to nose” contactNo dividers to prevent “nose to nose” contact

Design ConsiderationsDesign ConsiderationsDividing walls prevent disease transmissionDividing walls prevent disease transmission

Design ConsiderationsDesign ConsiderationsCommunal Housing for DogsCommunal Housing for Dogs Some dogs do better with canine companionshipSome dogs do better with canine companionship Other dogs do not play well with others ;-)Other dogs do not play well with others ;-) No more than 2 large dogs per runNo more than 2 large dogs per run No more than 3 small dogs per runNo more than 3 small dogs per run Sharing cages is probably not appropriate, except Sharing cages is probably not appropriate, except

for very small puppies or toy breedsfor very small puppies or toy breeds Disadvantage – increased disease transmission Disadvantage – increased disease transmission

within the groupwithin the group

Design ConsiderationsDesign ConsiderationsCommunal Housing for DogsCommunal Housing for Dogs Communal housing (dogs or cats) gives you Communal housing (dogs or cats) gives you

information about whether that individual should information about whether that individual should be placed in a multiple pet home.be placed in a multiple pet home.

Unless dogs were surrendered together and get Unless dogs were surrendered together and get along well, dog roommates should bealong well, dog roommates should be– Same sex or sterilized (duh!)Same sex or sterilized (duh!)– Same size rangeSame size range– Not aggressive to people or animalsNot aggressive to people or animals

Design ConsiderationsDesign ConsiderationsCages must be positioned to prevent direct Cages must be positioned to prevent direct

contact between neighborscontact between neighbors Cats may need more distance than dogsCats may need more distance than dogs

Design ConsiderationsDesign ConsiderationsCages must be positioned to prevent direct Cages must be positioned to prevent direct

contact between neighborscontact between neighborsStacking wire crates is Stacking wire crates is

disasterdisaster

Need dividers sides, Need dividers sides, top and bottom, to top and bottom, to

prevent disease prevent disease transmission.transmission.

Design ConsiderationsDesign ConsiderationsIndividual outdoor runs minimize Individual outdoor runs minimize

contamination of exercise areascontamination of exercise areas

Design ConsiderationsDesign ConsiderationsTraffic Flow Patterns – Public AreasTraffic Flow Patterns – Public Areas Public areas are: Public areas are:

– Reception – Adoption and SurrenderReception – Adoption and Surrender– Greeting areas to control public access to Greeting areas to control public access to

animalsanimals Ideally, public can observe but not touch as many Ideally, public can observe but not touch as many

animals up for adoption as possibleanimals up for adoption as possible– Glass windows/walls with comfortable seatingGlass windows/walls with comfortable seating

Closed doors with “Employees Only” Signs Closed doors with “Employees Only” Signs between public and shelter areasbetween public and shelter areas

Design ConsiderationsDesign ConsiderationsObservation areas allow public to look all Observation areas allow public to look all

they want without touchingthey want without touching







Themed Suites can make watching the dogs and cats down

right fun!

Design ConsiderationsDesign ConsiderationsTraffic Flow Patterns – Main ShelterTraffic Flow Patterns – Main Shelter Traffic flow patterns respect housing of life stage Traffic flow patterns respect housing of life stage

groupsgroups– young > geriatric > adult > sick (noninfectious)young > geriatric > adult > sick (noninfectious)

Sink/hand disinfection dispensers in every room Sink/hand disinfection dispensers in every room where animals are housedwhere animals are housed

No travel through one housing room to anotherNo travel through one housing room to another Each room has it’s own cleaning equipment and Each room has it’s own cleaning equipment and

protective garments – ample storageprotective garments – ample storage

Design ConsiderationsDesign ConsiderationsTraffic Flow Patterns – Main ShelterTraffic Flow Patterns – Main Shelter All animal housing rooms accessed by single door All animal housing rooms accessed by single door

from main hallfrom main hall Rooms should be in order of desired flowRooms should be in order of desired flow

– young > geriatric > adult > sickyoung > geriatric > adult > sick Dogs housed separately from catsDogs housed separately from cats Screened windows in each housing room, that can Screened windows in each housing room, that can

be opened for fresh air – especially catsbe opened for fresh air – especially cats If animals other than dogs or cats are to be housed, If animals other than dogs or cats are to be housed,

they should have their own areathey should have their own area

Design ConsiderationsDesign ConsiderationsHeating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning

(HVAC)(HVAC) 10-15 air exchanges per hour10-15 air exchanges per hour Separate air systems for kennel, quarantine and Separate air systems for kennel, quarantine and

isolationisolation Ducts and filters easy access for regular cleaningDucts and filters easy access for regular cleaning Vents positioned so as to not create draftsVents positioned so as to not create drafts Keep life stage housing and air flow in mindKeep life stage housing and air flow in mind

– Public > young > geriatric > adult > sickPublic > young > geriatric > adult > sick

Dog URIDog URI Upper respiratory infection (URI)Upper respiratory infection (URI)

– Also known as “kennel cough,” CONTAGIOUSAlso known as “kennel cough,” CONTAGIOUS– Caused by:Caused by:

» bacteria (Bordetella, Mycoplasma) bacteria (Bordetella, Mycoplasma)

» and/or viruses (parainfluenza CPI, adenovirus type-2 and/or viruses (parainfluenza CPI, adenovirus type-2 CAV-2)CAV-2)

– Symptoms of common cold – coughing, gaggingSymptoms of common cold – coughing, gagging» normally goes away on its ownnormally goes away on its own

» can develop into chronic cough or bronchopneumonia can develop into chronic cough or bronchopneumonia in young, ill, stressed dogsin young, ill, stressed dogs

Dog URIDog URI Upper respiratory infection (URI)Upper respiratory infection (URI)

– Transmission: Transmission: » Aerosol – CDV, CPI, Bordetella, CAV-2Aerosol – CDV, CPI, Bordetella, CAV-2

» Direct – CHV, MycoplasmaDirect – CHV, Mycoplasma

» Fomites – CHV, BordetellaFomites – CHV, Bordetella

» Fecal-oral - CDVFecal-oral - CDV

– Incubation: 1-14 days, depending on agentIncubation: 1-14 days, depending on agent– Agents can be shed for 1 week to many months, Agents can be shed for 1 week to many months,

depending on the causedepending on the cause– Asymptomatic carriersAsymptomatic carriers

» CHV, Bordetella, Mycoplasma, Canine FluCHV, Bordetella, Mycoplasma, Canine Flu

Dog URIDog URI Canine Distemper Canine Distemper

– Highly contagious and often fatalHighly contagious and often fatal– Caused by virus – canine distemper virus (CDV)Caused by virus – canine distemper virus (CDV)– Puppies highly susceptiblePuppies highly susceptible– Transmitted by fecal-oral or aerosolTransmitted by fecal-oral or aerosol– Incubation period 9-14 daysIncubation period 9-14 days– Begins as URI, followed by intestinal symptoms, Begins as URI, followed by intestinal symptoms,

then damages nervous systemthen damages nervous system


– High fever, eye and nose discharge, hard footpads, High fever, eye and nose discharge, hard footpads, twitching, seizures twitching, seizures


– Can shed virus up to 3 monthsCan shed virus up to 3 months

– Asymptomatic carriers are possibleAsymptomatic carriers are possible


– Mortality >50% in adults and >80% in puppiesMortality >50% in adults and >80% in puppies– Survivors can have long term neurologic problemsSurvivors can have long term neurologic problems– Vaccination is highly effectiveVaccination is highly effective– Merial Recombitek is more effective than any other Merial Recombitek is more effective than any other

distemper vaccinedistemper vaccine– It breaks through maternal immunity to protect It breaks through maternal immunity to protect

puppies betterpuppies better

Dog URIDog URI Canine InfluenzaCanine Influenza

– Influenza type A virusInfluenza type A virus– 2 clinical syndromes:2 clinical syndromes:

» Mild formMild form cough for 10-30 days, looks like kennel coughcough for 10-30 days, looks like kennel cough May have nasal dischargeMay have nasal discharge Resolves without treatmentResolves without treatment


– 2 clinical syndromes2 clinical syndromes» Severe formSevere form

High fever – 104-106FHigh fever – 104-106F Hemorrhagic pneumonia – coughing blood and Hemorrhagic pneumonia – coughing blood and

difficulty breathingdifficulty breathing Secondary bacterial pneumoniaSecondary bacterial pneumonia Rapid onset – death the same day if severeRapid onset – death the same day if severe 5-8% mortality rate in high risk populations (kennels)5-8% mortality rate in high risk populations (kennels)


– 50-80% of infected dogs show disease – mostly 50-80% of infected dogs show disease – mostly mildmild

– Virus is shed for 5-7 daysVirus is shed for 5-7 days– Runs its course in 14 days if isolatedRuns its course in 14 days if isolated


– PreventionPrevention» Vaccine – limited usefulnessVaccine – limited usefulness» Does not prevent infection or sheddingDoes not prevent infection or shedding» Lessens severity of symptoms and duration of sheddingLessens severity of symptoms and duration of shedding» Killed vaccine requires at least 2 doses, 2 weeks apart to Killed vaccine requires at least 2 doses, 2 weeks apart to

take effecttake effect Immunity is best 1-2 weeks after the second doseImmunity is best 1-2 weeks after the second dose Little help to dogs in shelter less than 3 weeksLittle help to dogs in shelter less than 3 weeks Vaccine is only conditionally licensed at this timeVaccine is only conditionally licensed at this time

» Susceptible to most disinfectants, including quatsSusceptible to most disinfectants, including quats

DDx URIDDx URI VaccinationVaccination

– IN Bordetella/CPI vaccine on admission for all dogsIN Bordetella/CPI vaccine on admission for all dogs– IN vaccine booster in 2-4 weeksIN vaccine booster in 2-4 weeks– If you have the funds, use SC Bordetella If you have the funds, use SC Bordetella

simultaneouslysimultaneously– Booster IN in an outbreak or at first sign of diseaseBooster IN in an outbreak or at first sign of disease– IN takes effect within 2 days, SC takes 2 weeksIN takes effect within 2 days, SC takes 2 weeks

Quarantine new admissions for 2 weeksQuarantine new admissions for 2 weeks Isolate coughing dogs immediately and review Isolate coughing dogs immediately and review

disinfection protocolsdisinfection protocols

Dog DiarrheaDog Diarrhea ParvovirusParvovirus

– Attacks rapidly dividing cells in the bodyAttacks rapidly dividing cells in the body» intestinal lining – bloody diarrhea and vomitingintestinal lining – bloody diarrhea and vomiting

» heart - very young puppies, when heart is formingheart - very young puppies, when heart is forming

» Bone marrow – low white counts and severe Bone marrow – low white counts and severe infection (this is usually what causes death)infection (this is usually what causes death)

– Affects puppies more frequently and severely.Affects puppies more frequently and severely.– Unvaccinated puppies are at greatest riskUnvaccinated puppies are at greatest risk– Rarely affects adult dogs, regardless of Rarely affects adult dogs, regardless of

vaccination statusvaccination status

Dog DiarrheaDog Diarrhea ParvovirusParvovirus

– Transmission – fecal-oral Transmission – fecal-oral – Virus remains in the environment for months to Virus remains in the environment for months to

yearsyears– ““High Titer” vaccines are much more effectiveHigh Titer” vaccines are much more effective

» PFIZER (Vanguard Puppy)PFIZER (Vanguard Puppy)» INTERVET (Progard vaccines, Continuum)INTERVET (Progard vaccines, Continuum)» MERIAL (Recombitek)MERIAL (Recombitek)» FORT DODGE (the Puppy Shot)FORT DODGE (the Puppy Shot)» SCHERING-PLOUGH (Galaxy, Novibac) SCHERING-PLOUGH (Galaxy, Novibac)

Dog DiarrheaDog Diarrhea CoronavirusCoronavirus

– Contagious intestinal virusContagious intestinal virus– Similar to parvo but less severeSimilar to parvo but less severe– Usually affects puppies, and is usually self Usually affects puppies, and is usually self

limiting in healthy dogslimiting in healthy dogs– Can be more severe in stressed or malnourished Can be more severe in stressed or malnourished

dogsdogs– Transmission: fecal-oralTransmission: fecal-oral

Dog DiarrheaDog Diarrhea CoronavirusCoronavirus

– Signs – vomiting, yellow to orange diarrhea Signs – vomiting, yellow to orange diarrhea (may have blood) (may have blood)

– Vaccine is not recommended by AAHA for any Vaccine is not recommended by AAHA for any dogdog

– More of a problem in a shelter setting than in More of a problem in a shelter setting than in the “real world”the “real world”

Dog DiarrheaDog Diarrhea Why treat worms?Why treat worms?

– Susceptibility to other diseases and poor Susceptibility to other diseases and poor conditioncondition

– Anemia, even death (hookworms)Anemia, even death (hookworms)– Chronic “stress” diarrhea with fresh blood and Chronic “stress” diarrhea with fresh blood and

mucus (whipworms)mucus (whipworms)– Anal itching (tapeworms)Anal itching (tapeworms)– Vomiting and diarrhea, (roundworms)Vomiting and diarrhea, (roundworms)– Prevents irretrievable contamination of shelter Prevents irretrievable contamination of shelter

ground with worm eggsground with worm eggs

Dog DiarrheaDog Diarrhea Deworm on intakeDeworm on intake Wormers must be repeated in 2-3 weeks, as Wormers must be repeated in 2-3 weeks, as

new eggs hatch outnew eggs hatch out Worm eggs may be hard to kill in the soilWorm eggs may be hard to kill in the soil

– Can do “fecals” on dirt to check for Can do “fecals” on dirt to check for contamination of dirt/grassy areascontamination of dirt/grassy areas

Dog DiarrheaDog Diarrhea Coccidia - Protozoan causes diarrhea and Coccidia - Protozoan causes diarrhea and

sometimes vomitingsometimes vomiting Transmission – fecal-oralTransmission – fecal-oral Asymptomatic carriers possibleAsymptomatic carriers possible Diagnosis: fecal direct or flotationDiagnosis: fecal direct or flotation Treatment: Treatment:

– Albon for at least 2 weeks, sometimes longerAlbon for at least 2 weeks, sometimes longer– Ponazuril (Marquis) if resistant to AlbonPonazuril (Marquis) if resistant to Albon

Dog DiarrheaDog Diarrhea Giardia - Protozoan affects mostly dogs, but also Giardia - Protozoan affects mostly dogs, but also

catscats Causes diarrhea and sometimes vomitingCauses diarrhea and sometimes vomiting Transmission – fecal-oral, including contaminated Transmission – fecal-oral, including contaminated

waterwater Asymptomatic carriers possibleAsymptomatic carriers possible ZOONOSIS – Beaver FeverZOONOSIS – Beaver Fever Vaccine will be off the marketVaccine will be off the market

Dog DiarrheaDog Diarrhea Bacterial DiarrheaBacterial Diarrhea

– There are numerous bacteria that can cause There are numerous bacteria that can cause diarrhea in shelter dogs and catsdiarrhea in shelter dogs and cats

– Most can also cause diarrhea in people Most can also cause diarrhea in people – Some can cause severe illness, chronic illness Some can cause severe illness, chronic illness

or significant weight lossor significant weight loss– Some include Some include E Coli, Salmonella, E Coli, Salmonella,

Campylobacter, ShigellaCampylobacter, Shigella, etc., etc.– Culture for specific identification is rarely Culture for specific identification is rarely

neededneeded

Dog DiarrheaDog Diarrhea ““Stress” DiarrheaStress” Diarrhea

– For many reasons, dogs under stress are prone For many reasons, dogs under stress are prone to GI upsetto GI upset

– These are usually apparently healthy, except for These are usually apparently healthy, except for the behavioral stress and diarrheathe behavioral stress and diarrhea

Dog HepatitisDog Hepatitis Infectious Canine HepatitisInfectious Canine Hepatitis

– Contagious viral diseaseContagious viral disease– Caused by an adenovirus (CAV-2)Caused by an adenovirus (CAV-2)– Transmitted by exposure to the urine of an Transmitted by exposure to the urine of an

infected doginfected dog– Causes inflammation of the liverCauses inflammation of the liver

» Acute liver failureAcute liver failure

» Chronic liver diseaseChronic liver disease

– Effective vaccine availableEffective vaccine available

WhipwormsWhipworms WhipwormsWhipworms

– Trichuris vulpisTrichuris vulpis– Causes diarrhea with mucus and flecks of Causes diarrhea with mucus and flecks of

blood.blood.– Transmission: fecal-oralTransmission: fecal-oral– Pre-patent period – several weeksPre-patent period – several weeks– Asymptomatic carriers possibleAsymptomatic carriers possible

Dog Skin DiseaseDog Skin Disease

Dog Skin DiseaseDog Skin Disease So many things can cause a dog who looks So many things can cause a dog who looks

like thislike this– Scabies (Sarcoptic Mange)Scabies (Sarcoptic Mange)– Demodectic Mange (Red Mange)Demodectic Mange (Red Mange)– Bacterial Infection (may be due to malnutrition)Bacterial Infection (may be due to malnutrition)– Flea InfestationFlea Infestation– Ringworm– Severe allergies (+ yeast infection)– Hormonal imbalance – low thyroid, high – low thyroid, high

adrenal activity (Cushing’s Disease), diabetesadrenal activity (Cushing’s Disease), diabetes– Chinese Crested MixChinese Crested Mix


“Winnie” a Chinese crested mix and her Pekingese friend – this is as good as her skin gets


Sarcoptic Mange – ScabiesSarcoptic Mange – Scabies Caused by mite Caused by mite Sarcoptes scabiei Sarcoptes scabiei that that

burrows in the skinburrows in the skin Highly contagious to other dogs (any age)Highly contagious to other dogs (any age) Causes hair loss and intense itchingCauses hair loss and intense itching Transmission: direct, fomitesTransmission: direct, fomites Incubation often 1-2 weeks or longerIncubation often 1-2 weeks or longer Shed organisms until treatedShed organisms until treated No asymptomatic carriersNo asymptomatic carriers


Sarcoptic Mange – ScabiesSarcoptic Mange – Scabies ZOONOSIS: Can temporarily infect ZOONOSIS: Can temporarily infect

humans and cats (up to 3 weeks)humans and cats (up to 3 weeks)


Demodectic MangeDemodectic Mange DemodexDemodex mites live on normal dogs and cats mites live on normal dogs and cats Overgrow and cause problems in young, ill and Overgrow and cause problems in young, ill and

immunocompromised petsimmunocompromised pets– Disease much more common in dogs than catsDisease much more common in dogs than cats

Red skin and hair loss, not usually itchyRed skin and hair loss, not usually itchy (localized) or over entire body (generalized)(localized) or over entire body (generalized) 80% of puppies with localized outgrow condition80% of puppies with localized outgrow condition Other 20% can be very difficult to treatOther 20% can be very difficult to treat Transmission: from mother to pup when nursingTransmission: from mother to pup when nursing Demodex is rather contagious in cats, but not so Demodex is rather contagious in cats, but not so

much in dogsmuch in dogs

Dog Skin DiseaseDog Skin DiseaseBacterial Skin Infection (Pyoderma)Bacterial Skin Infection (Pyoderma) Pustules, red bumps (papules) and crustingPustules, red bumps (papules) and crusting Malnutrition predisposes to thisMalnutrition predisposes to this As do poor housing conditionsAs do poor housing conditions

– Fleas, ticks, scabies, DemodexFleas, ticks, scabies, Demodex

– Wet beddingWet bedding

– Frost biteFrost bite

– Bite woundsBite wounds

Allergies and hormonal problems alsoAllergies and hormonal problems also


Bacterial Skin Infection (Pyoderma)Bacterial Skin Infection (Pyoderma)


Bacterial Skin Infection (Pyoderma)Bacterial Skin Infection (Pyoderma)

Dog Skin DiseaseDog Skin DiseaseFleas (Fleas (Flea Product Chart in Optional ReadingsFlea Product Chart in Optional Readings)) MUST TREAT ALL DOGS AND CATS AS MUST TREAT ALL DOGS AND CATS AS

THEY COME INTHEY COME IN– Capstar (nitenpyram) – cheap, pill lasts a few daysCapstar (nitenpyram) – cheap, pill lasts a few days

– Advantage (imidocloprid), Frontline (fipronil)Advantage (imidocloprid), Frontline (fipronil)

– Certifect, Revolution (selamectin)Certifect, Revolution (selamectin)

– Comfortis (spinosad) – monthly pillComfortis (spinosad) – monthly pill

– Pyrethrin sprays, dips (safe for pups and kittens)Pyrethrin sprays, dips (safe for pups and kittens)

And control fleas in the environmentAnd control fleas in the environment– Fipronil (Over and Out) and spinosad very safe and last Fipronil (Over and Out) and spinosad very safe and last

long periods of timelong periods of time

– Can also use Dursban and other harsh chemicalsCan also use Dursban and other harsh chemicals

Dog Skin DiseaseDog Skin DiseaseDorsal Skin NecrosisDorsal Skin Necrosis Open wounds or scars over the back are not Open wounds or scars over the back are not

uncommonly seenuncommonly seen Many assume the dog was burned, or Many assume the dog was burned, or

something caustic was put on their backsomething caustic was put on their back There are numerous causes of this syndromeThere are numerous causes of this syndrome

– Heat stroke (black dogs who live outdoors)Heat stroke (black dogs who live outdoors)– Heating pad burnHeating pad burn– Sometimes there is no identifiable cause in dogs Sometimes there is no identifiable cause in dogs

who are well cared forwho are well cared for

Dog Skin DiseaseDog Skin DiseaseDorsal Skin NecrosisDorsal Skin Necrosis

Dog Skin DiseaseDog Skin DiseaseDorsal Skin NecrosisDorsal Skin Necrosis

Cat URICat URI Upper respiratory infection (URI)Upper respiratory infection (URI)

– Highly contagious, rarely causes death, Highly contagious, rarely causes death, normally goes away on its ownnormally goes away on its own

» can develop into bronchopneumonia in young, ill, can develop into bronchopneumonia in young, ill, stressed catsstressed cats

» Chronic infections possible (FHV and calicivirus)Chronic infections possible (FHV and calicivirus)

– Caused by:Caused by:» Calicivirus – eyes, nose, oral ulcers, gingivitisCalicivirus – eyes, nose, oral ulcers, gingivitis

» Herpesvirus – eyes, nose (chronic)Herpesvirus – eyes, nose (chronic)

» Bacteria - Bordetella, Chlamydia, Mycoplasma – Bacteria - Bordetella, Chlamydia, Mycoplasma – eyes are worsteyes are worst

Cat URI Cat URI Upper respiratory infection (URI)Upper respiratory infection (URI)

– Transmission:Transmission:» Aerosol – FCV, FHV (rhinotracheitis), BordetellaAerosol – FCV, FHV (rhinotracheitis), Bordetella

4 feet in all directions4 feet in all directions

» Fomites – FCV, BordetellaFomites – FCV, Bordetella» Direct – Chlamydia, MycoplasmaDirect – Chlamydia, Mycoplasma» Live for only a few hours off the feline bodyLive for only a few hours off the feline body

– Incubation – 1-14 days (viruses shorter)Incubation – 1-14 days (viruses shorter)– Asymptomatic carriers possible for all Asymptomatic carriers possible for all

(Chlamydia is rare)(Chlamydia is rare)


– Symptoms:Symptoms:» eyes – red, dischargeeyes – red, discharge

FHV can cause corneal ulcersFHV can cause corneal ulcers

» Coughing and sneezingCoughing and sneezing

» FeverFever

» Anorexia, lethargy, dehydrationAnorexia, lethargy, dehydration

» Oral ulcers – especially FHV and calicivirusOral ulcers – especially FHV and calicivirus

» Joint pain and bruising – “killer” calicivirusJoint pain and bruising – “killer” calicivirus


– Vaccines available, partially effectiveVaccines available, partially effective– ZOONOSIS – Bordetella, ChlamydiaZOONOSIS – Bordetella, Chlamydia

Cat URICat URI Killer Calicivirus (Virulent Calicivirus, Killer Calicivirus (Virulent Calicivirus,

Hemorrhagic calicivirus)Hemorrhagic calicivirus)– mutation from the original calicivirus, which mutation from the original calicivirus, which

causes more severe diseasecauses more severe disease– about 35-50% fatalabout 35-50% fatal– Adults seem to be more severely affected than Adults seem to be more severely affected than

kittens - opposite of most other diseaseskittens - opposite of most other diseases– High fever >104High fever >104ooFF– Each outbreak from mutation seems to run its Each outbreak from mutation seems to run its

course in 2-3 monthscourse in 2-3 months

Cat URICat URI Killer Calicivirus (Virulent Calicivirus, Killer Calicivirus (Virulent Calicivirus,

Hemorrhagic calicivirus)Hemorrhagic calicivirus)– Typical calicivirus symptoms plusTypical calicivirus symptoms plus

» Sore jointsSore joints» Swollen feetSwollen feet» Skin ulcers and soresSkin ulcers and sores

– Fort Dodge CaliciVax licensed for killer caliciFort Dodge CaliciVax licensed for killer calici» However, new killer strains are not closely related However, new killer strains are not closely related

to strains used to make the vaccineto strains used to make the vaccine» No evidence that this vaccine is better than othersNo evidence that this vaccine is better than others» MLV FVRCP is the single most important vaccine MLV FVRCP is the single most important vaccine

shelter cats receiveshelter cats receive

PanleukopeniaPanleukopenia Panleukopenia (feline parvovirus)Panleukopenia (feline parvovirus)

– Also known as feline distemperAlso known as feline distemper– Viral disease that may be fatalViral disease that may be fatal– Affects kittens and rarely unvaccinated cats, Affects kittens and rarely unvaccinated cats,

also raccoonsalso raccoons– Causes abortions and fetal brain defects in Causes abortions and fetal brain defects in

pregnant catspregnant cats– Not the same as canine distemper, and not Not the same as canine distemper, and not

contagious to dogscontagious to dogs– Similar to Parvo in dogs—diarrhea with blood, Similar to Parvo in dogs—diarrhea with blood,

vomiting bile, lethargy, fever then subnormalvomiting bile, lethargy, fever then subnormal

PanleukopeniaPanleukopenia Panleukopenia (feline parvovirus)Panleukopenia (feline parvovirus)

– TransmissionTransmission» fecal-oralfecal-oral» Also shed in urine, saliva, vomit and blood (fleas)Also shed in urine, saliva, vomit and blood (fleas)

– Incubation 4-14 days (usually less than 10)Incubation 4-14 days (usually less than 10)– Shed virus for 10-12 daysShed virus for 10-12 days

» Canine parvo test positiveCanine parvo test positive» No asymptomatic carriersNo asymptomatic carriers

– Treatment: same as for canine parvovirusTreatment: same as for canine parvovirus– Deadly to kittens, often within 12-72 hoursDeadly to kittens, often within 12-72 hours

» 75% mortality < 4 months, 50% > 4 months75% mortality < 4 months, 50% > 4 months

– Very effective vaccine availableVery effective vaccine available

Feline Leukemia & FIVFeline Leukemia & FIV Feline leukemia (FeLV) Feline leukemia (FeLV)

– Contagious fatal viral diseases, no cure Contagious fatal viral diseases, no cure – Attacks and destroys the immune systemAttacks and destroys the immune system

» Chronic infections and poor healing are commonChronic infections and poor healing are common

– Kittens that become infected may die, become Kittens that become infected may die, become immune, or not show symptoms for years immune, or not show symptoms for years

– Adults less often infectedAdults less often infected– Once infected, survival is usually less than 2 Once infected, survival is usually less than 2

yearsyears– Transmission: direct contact with saliva, urine, Transmission: direct contact with saliva, urine,

bloodblood


– Incubation can be as long as yearsIncubation can be as long as years– Asymptomatic carriers are common Asymptomatic carriers are common


– Very effective vaccine is availableVery effective vaccine is available» Every kitten should receive FeLV seriesEvery kitten should receive FeLV series

» Boosted at 1 yearBoosted at 1 year

» Further boosters only if an outdoor catFurther boosters only if an outdoor cat

Feline Leukemia & FIVFeline Leukemia & FIV Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV)Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV)

– Also known as feline AIDSAlso known as feline AIDS– Some cats can live healthy lives for many years Some cats can live healthy lives for many years

without progressing to AIDs – not necessarily a without progressing to AIDs – not necessarily a death sentence, though it can bedeath sentence, though it can be

– Attacks and destroys the immune system if Attacks and destroys the immune system if AIDsAIDs

– Kittens that become infected may die, become Kittens that become infected may die, become immune, or not show symptoms for yearsimmune, or not show symptoms for years

– Transmission: bite and sexual transmissionTransmission: bite and sexual transmission


– Lifelong asymptomatic carriersLifelong asymptomatic carriers


– Controversial vaccines provides questionable Controversial vaccines provides questionable immunity and causes positive testimmunity and causes positive test

» Always ask on surrender if ever got FIV vaccineAlways ask on surrender if ever got FIV vaccine

» Green tag not widely used, but indicates vaccinationGreen tag not widely used, but indicates vaccination

» Tattoo or microchip is a great ideaTattoo or microchip is a great idea

FIPFIP FIP (Feline Infectious Peritonitis)FIP (Feline Infectious Peritonitis)

– Fatal, contagious viral disease Fatal, contagious viral disease – Effusive (wet) form Effusive (wet) form

» feverfever

» swollen abdomenswollen abdomen

Fluid from abdomen


– Noneffusive (dry) form – fever, weight loss, Noneffusive (dry) form – fever, weight loss, neurologic, with no fluid build upneurologic, with no fluid build up

– Transmission: unknownTransmission: unknown» Happens when nonpathogenic GI coronavirus Happens when nonpathogenic GI coronavirus

mutatesmutates

» Nonpathogenic virus highly contagiousNonpathogenic virus highly contagious

» Unknown how contagious the FIP virus isUnknown how contagious the FIP virus is

– Incubation: 2 weeks-2 months, no cureIncubation: 2 weeks-2 months, no cure


– Questionable vaccine may cause enhanced Questionable vaccine may cause enhanced infection in some casesinfection in some cases

Notoedric Mange - ScabiesNotoedric Mange - Scabies

Caused by mite Caused by mite Noteodres cati Noteodres cati that burrows that burrows in the skin in the skin

Highly contagious to other cats (any age)Highly contagious to other cats (any age) Causes hair loss and intense itching, mostly Causes hair loss and intense itching, mostly

on the headon the head Transmission: direct, fomitesTransmission: direct, fomites Incubation often 1-2 weeks or longerIncubation often 1-2 weeks or longer Shed organisms until treatedShed organisms until treated No asymptomatic carriersNo asymptomatic carriers

Litter Box ProblemsLitter Box Problems FLUTD (FelineLower Urinary Tract FLUTD (FelineLower Urinary Tract

Disease)Disease)– Feline urologic syndrome (FUS) – old termFeline urologic syndrome (FUS) – old term– Should be suspected on all cats not using Should be suspected on all cats not using

litterboxlitterbox– Accounts for 10% of feline hospital admissions, Accounts for 10% of feline hospital admissions,

and very common reason for surrender and very common reason for surrender – 22-55% mortality rate (often euthanasia) 22-55% mortality rate (often euthanasia)

without lifelong treatmentwithout lifelong treatment– Symptoms – blood in urine, straining to urinate, Symptoms – blood in urine, straining to urinate,

urinating outside the litter box, urinary urinating outside the litter box, urinary blockageblockage

Litter Box ProblemsLitter Box Problems FLUTD (FelineLower Urinary Tract FLUTD (FelineLower Urinary Tract

Disease)Disease)– Causal agents unknown, probably not Causal agents unknown, probably not

contagious contagious – Diagnosis – rule out urinary tract infection, Diagnosis – rule out urinary tract infection,

tumor, stones, Urinary tumor, Physical defecttumor, stones, Urinary tumor, Physical defect– Other names: FIC – feline interstitial cystitis, Other names: FIC – feline interstitial cystitis,

sterile cystitis, idiopathic cystitissterile cystitis, idiopathic cystitis

HeartwormsHeartworms Affects mostly dogs, but also catsAffects mostly dogs, but also cats

– More dangerous for cats, as a few heartworms cause More dangerous for cats, as a few heartworms cause more problems in small heartmore problems in small heart

Worms live in the blood and tissues, and then Worms live in the blood and tissues, and then migrate to the heart and organs over a period of migrate to the heart and organs over a period of months, grow to 14” longmonths, grow to 14” long

Transmission: mosquitoes, more prevalent in Transmission: mosquitoes, more prevalent in moist areasmoist areas– Dogs with heartworms are sources of infection to Dogs with heartworms are sources of infection to

mosquitos and thus other dogs nearbymosquitos and thus other dogs nearby Incubation: 6 months to many yearsIncubation: 6 months to many years

HeartwormsHeartworms Heartworms can be fatal, whether or not treated, in Heartworms can be fatal, whether or not treated, in

dogs and catsdogs and cats Treatment is expensive and risky for dogs, Treatment is expensive and risky for dogs,

especially in advanced casesespecially in advanced cases– ImmiticideImmiticide– Putting on Heartguard my clear worms over several Putting on Heartguard my clear worms over several

years if dog does well that longyears if dog does well that long– Cats can not be treated – only managedCats can not be treated – only managed

Every Adoptive Owner should be counseled on Every Adoptive Owner should be counseled on Heartworm prevention appropriate for their areaHeartworm prevention appropriate for their area

Giving any HWPrev except ivermectin to dog Giving any HWPrev except ivermectin to dog with heartworms can be very dangerouswith heartworms can be very dangerous

TicksTicks

Remove from dogs and cats as they come inRemove from dogs and cats as they come in– Wear gloves to avoid exposure to pathogens in Wear gloves to avoid exposure to pathogens in

blood if they burstblood if they burst– Frontline spray and topical can helpFrontline spray and topical can help– Permethrin can be used on dogs BUT NOT Permethrin can be used on dogs BUT NOT

CATS!!CATS!! Watch for ticks in the shelterWatch for ticks in the shelter

– Brown Dog Ticks (Brown Dog Ticks (Rhipecephalus sanguineusRhipecephalus sanguineus) ) they can live and breed in buildingsthey can live and breed in buildings

– They can be very difficult to get rid ofThey can be very difficult to get rid of

Ear MitesEar Mites

Mostly in cats, but can affect dogsMostly in cats, but can affect dogs causes inflammation of ear canals, itchiness, sores causes inflammation of ear canals, itchiness, sores

behind ears, dark deposits inside earsbehind ears, dark deposits inside ears Contagious, mites can hide out on rest of petContagious, mites can hide out on rest of pet

– Bathe or treat with systemic (ivermectin/selamectin)Bathe or treat with systemic (ivermectin/selamectin) Diagnosis – ear swab with mineral oilDiagnosis – ear swab with mineral oil Eggs hatch and grow to adults in 3 weeksEggs hatch and grow to adults in 3 weeks

– Treat the ears, coat, and animal’s environment for at Treat the ears, coat, and animal’s environment for at least 3-4 weeksleast 3-4 weeks

– Flea control products that kill adult fleas will kill mites Flea control products that kill adult fleas will kill mites in the coatin the coat

– Many ear treatments – mineral oil, tresaderm, Many ear treatments – mineral oil, tresaderm, MitaClear, ivermectinMitaClear, ivermectin

Ear MitesEar Mites

RabiesRabies All warm-blooded animals susceptibleAll warm-blooded animals susceptible

– Most common skunks, bats, canines, and raccoons.Most common skunks, bats, canines, and raccoons. Caused by a virus that attacks nervous systemCaused by a virus that attacks nervous system Contagious to animals and peopleContagious to animals and people Spread by bites (saliva), contact with wildlifeSpread by bites (saliva), contact with wildlife Usually fatal (treatable in humans if treated before Usually fatal (treatable in humans if treated before

symptoms begin) symptoms begin) Incubation: 2 weeks to yearsIncubation: 2 weeks to years Once symptoms begin, death within 2 weeksOnce symptoms begin, death within 2 weeks Diagnosed in animals by testing brain tissue after Diagnosed in animals by testing brain tissue after

deathdeath

RabiesRabies Symptoms: neurologic – aggression, strange Symptoms: neurologic – aggression, strange

behavior, difficulty swallowing, stupor, behavior, difficulty swallowing, stupor, incoordination, seizuresincoordination, seizures

Diagnosed in animals by testing brain tissue after Diagnosed in animals by testing brain tissue after deathdeath

Treatment: possible (if prior to clinical signs Treatment: possible (if prior to clinical signs developing) not recommended due to public developing) not recommended due to public health risk health risk

Very effective vaccine: Very effective vaccine: – Puppies kittens vaccinated at 3-4 mos. Puppies kittens vaccinated at 3-4 mos. – then annually or every 3 years, depending on state lawthen annually or every 3 years, depending on state law

RabiesRabies Due to risk of rabies, do not put the Due to risk of rabies, do not put the

following up for adoption:following up for adoption:– Animals with bite wounds fo unknown originAnimals with bite wounds fo unknown origin– Feral animalsFeral animals– Animals who have bitten or scratched, Animals who have bitten or scratched,

especially within the past 14 daysespecially within the past 14 days– Wolf hybrids (no approved vaccine)Wolf hybrids (no approved vaccine)– Animals susceptible to but that can not be Animals susceptible to but that can not be

vaccinated for rabiesvaccinated for rabies

RingwormRingworm Fungal infection of skin – not a wormFungal infection of skin – not a worm Transmission: direct, fomitesTransmission: direct, fomites

– Ringworm can be very difficult to eliminate from a Ringworm can be very difficult to eliminate from a shelter, once it is infectedshelter, once it is infected

– Infected hairs fly through the air and infect all they land Infected hairs fly through the air and infect all they land on; gets in the air ductson; gets in the air ducts

– All surfaces must be cleaned with strong bleach 1:10All surfaces must be cleaned with strong bleach 1:10– Infected animals must be isolated, and probably should Infected animals must be isolated, and probably should

be removed from the shelter ASAPbe removed from the shelter ASAP– Infected foster homes may need to be rested until cleanInfected foster homes may need to be rested until clean– All cats in the shelter should be testedAll cats in the shelter should be tested

RingwormRingworm Incubation: 4 days or moreIncubation: 4 days or more Some cats are carriers with no symptomsSome cats are carriers with no symptoms

– Especially long hair cats (Persians)Especially long hair cats (Persians)

Diagnosis: Diagnosis: – Sometimes can see Sometimes can see

fungal hyphae on fungal hyphae on

infected hairs infected hairs

under the microscopeunder the microscope

Fungal hyphae on an infected hair

RingwormRingworm Diagnosis: Diagnosis:

– fungal culture of hairs at edge of lesionsfungal culture of hairs at edge of lesions» DTM media turns red, and RSM turns blue-greenDTM media turns red, and RSM turns blue-green

» MUST examine culture growth to tell ringworm MUST examine culture growth to tell ringworm from another fungal contaminantfrom another fungal contaminant

– Ultraviolet light – Ultraviolet light – » infected hairs infected hairs

glow green (50%)glow green (50%)Ringworm

macroconidia

RingwormRingworm Treatment:Treatment:

– Mild cases resolve on their own or with topical Mild cases resolve on their own or with topical treatment (Tresaderm, Lotrimin, Lymdyp)treatment (Tresaderm, Lotrimin, Lymdyp)

– Severe cases need oral antifungals for weeks to months Severe cases need oral antifungals for weeks to months (griseofulvin, itraconazole)(griseofulvin, itraconazole)

– ITRACONAZOLE SUSPENSIONS MAY NOT BE ITRACONAZOLE SUSPENSIONS MAY NOT BE EFFECTIVEEFFECTIVE

– Severe cases can be disastrous for herd healthSevere cases can be disastrous for herd health– Program (lufenuron) was thought to help years ago, but Program (lufenuron) was thought to help years ago, but

studies have shown that it does notstudies have shown that it does not ZOONOSIS: contagious to humansZOONOSIS: contagious to humans

Documents

Infectious Disease and Population Density