Salmonellosis is a bacterial disease that most commonly causes enteritis (inflammation of the intestines), septicemia (systemic disease due to the presence of bacteria or their toxin in the bloodstream) and abortions. It is not uncommon for the infected individual to be a subclinical carrier, which is a carrier with no symptoms.

Salmonellosis is caused by any one of more than 2000 serotypes (subtypes) of the Salmonellae bacteria. It is seen in both dogs and cats. In dogs, clinical disease is most commonly seen in immature puppies and pregnant bitches.

What to Watch For

Lethargy

Depression

Weakness

Anorexia

Weight loss

Fever

Diarrhea (with or without blood)

Abdominal pain

Diagnosis

Complete blood count (CBC)

Biochemical profile

Urinalysis

Fecal flotation

Platelet count

Screening thoracic (chest) and abdominal radiographs (X-rays)

Fecal Culture

Blood Culture

Treatment

Depending on the severity of clinical signs, treatment options may include out patient care or may necessitate hospitalization. Affected individuals are contagious, and should be kept in isolation and handled carefully.

Food restriction may be recommended for those patients with severe gastrointestinal signs. Supportive care, to include fluid and electrolyte therapy, and/or intestinal adsorbents and protectants, may be indicated.

Antibiotic therapy may be indicated in certain cases, but contraindicated in others.

Home Care and Prevention

Administer all medication and return for follow-up fecal cultures as directed by your veterinarian. Prognosis varies depending on the individual and associated conditions. Be aware that salmonellosis is contagious to others animals and people.

Keep animals vaccinated and feed a good quality food. Keep the environment clean and disinfected. Properly store feed and utensils. Reduce overcrowding and isolate and screen/monitor for sickness in new additions to household or kennel.