Anthrax is a dangerous bacterial disease caused by Bacillus anthracis. It mostly affects animals like cows, sheep, and goats, but pets—especially dogs and cats—can also get infected. This usually happens if they come into contact with infected soil, dead animals, or raw meat that carries the bacteria. Even though it’s rare, anthrax can harm both pets and people, so it’s important for pet owners—especially those in areas like parts of Nigeria where anthrax is more common—to know how to recognize and prevent it.
How Pets Get Anthrax
Pets can catch anthrax in a few different ways. One common way is by eating raw or poorly cooked meat from animals that were infected. They can also get it if they sniff, lick, or touch dead animals that had anthrax. Another way is by digging or playing in soil that has the bacteria, because the spores can live in the ground for years. Although it’s not common, pets might also breathe in the spores from places where the bacteria are present.
Signs and Symptoms to Watch For
The symptoms your pet shows will depend on how they were infected.
- If anthrax enters through the skin (cutaneous anthrax), your pet might have swelling, sores, or ulcers. They may also develop a fever, seem tired, or stop eating.
- If it’s through eating infected meat (gastrointestinal anthrax), signs include vomiting, bloody diarrhea, belly pain, trouble breathing, and weakness.
- If it’s from breathing in spores (inhalation anthrax), symptoms can be very serious—like coughing, difficulty breathing, a high fever, and even collapsing suddenly.
Anthrax spreads fast and can be deadly if not treated, so if you think your pet may have been exposed, take them to the vet immediately.
How to Keep Your Pets Safe from Anthrax
- Don’t Feed Raw Meat: Always make sure meat is well-cooked before giving it to your pets. Also, don’t let them search for food outside, especially in areas where anthrax is known to happen.
- Stay Away from Dead Animals: If you see a dead animal, keep your pet away from it. Don’t let them sniff or touch it. Report strange livestock deaths to animal health authorities.
- Avoid Contaminated Soil: Try not to let your pet dig or play in places where anthrax outbreaks have been reported. Keep your yard clean and free of any remains of dead animals.
- Practice Good Hygiene: Always wash your hands after touching your pet—especially if they’ve been in a risky area. Clean their bedding, bowls, and toys regularly to help keep bacteria away.
- Stay Updated: If you live in an area where anthrax is sometimes found, keep up with the latest health alerts. Vaccinating farm animals in those areas can also help stop anthrax from spreading to pets and people.
Can Humans Catch Anthrax from Pets?
While it’s not common, people can get anthrax if they touch an infected pet’s wounds, fluids, or waste. That’s why it’s super important to practice good hygiene and be careful when handling sick animals.
Final Thoughts
Anthrax in pets doesn’t happen often, but when it does, it can be deadly. Thankfully, you can take simple steps to protect your furry friends—like cooking their food properly, keeping them away from dead animals, and keeping everything clean. If you ever think your pet might have been exposed to anthrax, don’t wait. Early treatment can save their life. For any concerns or advice, reach out to us at Doctor Hulk Veterinary Hospital, or click here.