When reading about encephalitis, you may encounter related medical terms such as meningitis or myelitis.
Although these terms can be confusing, they are useful because they describe Or inflammation occurs and these conditions often occur together.
The terms “-itis” help veterinarians identify which areas of your dog's body are affected:
For example, encephalomyelitis means there is inflammation affecting both the brain and spinal cord.
When inflammation affects the brain or surrounding structures, dogs can develop a wide range of neurological, visual and motor abnormalities, depending on the areas of the brain involved.
Key takeaways
- Encephalitis in dogs is an inflammation of the brain and is always a medical emergency requiring immediate veterinary attention.
- Common signs include seizures, head pressure, circling, vision changes, and loss of coordination.
- Causes can be infectious (viruses, bacteria, fungi, parasites) or immune-related, and prevention includes vaccines and pest control.
What is encephalitis in dogs?
Encephalitis in dogs is the inflammation of a dog's brain.
Because inflammation of the brain can progress rapidly, all cases of encephalitis are considered serious and require immediate veterinary attention.
If your dog develops signs of encephalitis, seek emergency treatment immediately.
Symptoms of Encephalitis in Dogs
Symptoms of encephalitis in dogs include:
Causes of encephalitis in dogs
Encephalitis in dogs is generally classified as infectious Or idiopathic.
Infectious encephalitis occurs when an underlying infection triggers inflammation in the brain. Dogs that are not vaccinated, spend a lot of time outdoors, or do not receive regular treatment for heartworm, fleas, and ticks are at higher risk of contracting an infectious disease leading to encephalitis.
Common infectious causes of encephalitis in dogs include:
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Fungal organismssuch as Cryptococcus, Coccidioides (Valley Fever), and Blastomyces
Idiopathic encephalitis refers to conditions whose cause is not fully understood. Many of these cases are thought to be immune-related, meaning the dog's immune system attacks itself by mistake.
These conditions are more often seen in small breed dogs. Here are examples of encephalitis in dogs whose cause is unknown:
How Vets Diagnose Encephalitis in Dogs
To diagnose encephalitis, your veterinarian will begin by performing a full body exam and a thorough neurological exam. They usually perform blood tests and may take x-rays to rule out underlying organic disease.
Additional tests may include specialized blood tests to detect infectious causes. Blood samples may be sent to be tested for antibodies or PCR tests (which detect genetic material from infectious organisms).
Advanced imaging, such as CT and MRI, is often very helpful in diagnosing encephalitis and determining which areas of the brain are affected.
A cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) sample is another valuable diagnostic tool. During this procedure, fluid is collected from around the spinal cord under sterile conditions while your dog is under anesthesia; it is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. The results can help identify inflammation, infection, or abnormal cell types.
Treatment of encephalitis in dogs
Steroids play an important role in the treatment of encephalitis in dogs.
Steroid medications, such as prednisone, help reduce brain swelling and ease symptoms your dog may be experiencing.
Typically, steroids are prescribed on a tapering schedule. This means starting by giving your dog a higher dose, more frequently, and gradually reducing it over time. Be sure to follow all of your veterinarian's instructions and the medication label. Some pet parents find it helpful to write the taper dates on a calendar to keep track of the dosing schedule.
If your dog is diagnosed with a bacterial infection, he may be prescribed an antibiotic such as doxycycline or sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim.
These medications are usually given with food and it is important to follow the entire course of treatment as prescribed. Avoid missing doses or stopping treatment prematurely.
If your dog is diagnosed with a systemic fungal infection, an antifungal medication such as fluconazole may be prescribed.
If you notice any side effects from a prescribed medication, such as vomiting or diarrhea, discontinue treatment and contact your veterinarian immediately for advice.
Recovery and Management of Encephalitis in Dogs
Some dogs with encephalitis can make a full recovery, but it may take several months. In some cases, prolonged hospitalization is necessary.
For pups suffering from unsteadiness and disorientation, non-slip mats (like the Allisandro Waterproof, Non-Slip Dog and Cat Crate Mat) in the crate and throughout the house can help improve traction, and toe grips (like Dr. Buzby's ToeGrips Dog Nail Grips) can help your dog better handle slippery hardwood floors.
A support sling (like the Labra Plush Dog Support Sling) can also help when taking your dog outside if their balance and coordination are affected.
Prevention of encephalitis in dogs
Regular preventive care can reduce the risk of developing several diseases associated with encephalitis.
Rabies and distemper are considered core vaccines and are recommended as part of every dog's routine wellness care.
Monthly prevention against internal and external parasites can also protect dogs from many tick-borne diseases related to encephalitis.
Your veterinarian may recommend products like NexGard Plus or Simparica Trio to help your dog stay parasite-free.
FAQs About Encephalitis in Dogs
Can a dog recover from encephalitis?
Yes. Some dogs can recover from encephalitis, but their prognosis depends on the underlying cause of the inflammation.
What are the signs of encephalitis in dogs?
Common signs include unsteadiness, seizures, head tilt, head pressure, and circling.
What can cause encephalitis in dogs?
Encephalitis can be caused by infections, unknown conditions, or immune-mediated diseases.
How are animals infected with encephalitis?
Encephalitis can result from infections caused by bacteria (often spread by ticks), viruses, fungi or parasites, or from an abnormal immune response.
