Skip to Main Content

How do I know if my pet has Lyme disease?

Ticks transmit a number of serious diseases, the most common of which is Lyme disease. Here, our Huntersville vets share a few of the symptoms of Lyme, and what you should do if you think your pet may have contracted Lyme disease.


What is Lyme Disease?

Lyme disease is an infectious disease caused by a bacteria commonly carried by deer ticks. When a tick feeds on an infected animal, it becomes infected and can spread the disease to other animals, including humans.

What are the symptoms of Lyme disease?

The most common symptoms of Lyme disease seen in dogs are, lameness due to inflamed joints and general malaise or discomfort.  

Other Lyme disease symptoms include: depression, lack of appetite, difficulty breathing, fever and a sensitivity to touch.

How can Lyme disease be diagnosed?

If you're concerned that your pet may have Lyme disease, make an appointment to see your vet for diagnosis and treatment.

At your appointment, your vet will request a thorough medial history for your pet, then run series of tests to diagnose Lyme disease. Tests used to diagnose Lyme include x-rays, blood tests, urine analysis, and fecal exams. In some cases the vet may also collect fluid from your pet's affected joints to analyse.

What happens if my pet is diagnosed with Lyme disease?

If your pet is diagnosed with Lyme disease, your vet will prescribe a course of antibiotics which will last for at least four weeks, and possibly some anti-inflammatory painkillers if your pet is especially uncomfortable. Hospitalization is not typically required for Lyme disease in pets.

Fecal exams are used to help diagnose Lyme Disease and are a part of our annual Wellness Plans. Choose the Wellness Plan that's right for your pet.

Signs of Lyme Disease in Pets | Huntersville Vet

Looking for a vet in Huntersville and Mecklenburg County?

We're always accepting new patients, so contact our veterinary hospital today to book your pet's first appointment.

Contact Us

Related Articles View All

Puppy’s First Vet Visit: Checklist & What to Expect

Set your new puppy on the path to good health by getting the most out of each vet visit. Here is what you can expect from your puppy's first vet visit, along with a checklist of things to take and questions to ask your vet.

Is there a natural treatment for hyperthyroidism in cats?

Are you concerned about the side effects of your cat's hyperthyroidism treatment? Are there any natural remedies for hyperthyroidism in cats? Find out in today's blog post. 

Kitten's First Vet Visit: What to Expect

So you have just brought home a little bundle of joy. Congratulations! But make sure you're scheduling your first veterinary appointment, as well as routine exams going forward. To help you prepare, our Huntersville vets discuss what to expect at your kitten's first appointment.

How often should I take my dog to the vet?

Regular veterinary care including checkups, parasite prevention, and vaccinations are the key to keeping your dog healthy throughout their lifetime. But, how often should you take your dog to the vet, and how can you save money? Read on to find out.

Book Online (704) 948-6300