Tetanus

1
Tetanus

• All mammals are susceptible, however dogs rarely
  get tetanus, cats are very resistant, birds are
  resistant and horses are the most susceptible.
• Caused by the anaerobic bacteria Clostridium
  tetani that is spore forming and is found in
  soil and the intestinal tract.

2

• Worldwide occurrence, most frequent in warmer
  climates.
• Organism enters the body through punctures or
  lacerations that create an anaerobic environment
  where it can grow. Bacteria remain localized and
  as they die they release a powerful neurotoxin
  that attacks the nervous system.
• Incubation period 10 to 14 days.

3
Symptoms of Tetanus

• Muscle spasms, sometimes violent, following
  sudden loud noises or touch.
• Incoordination, chewing or grinding of the teeth
  (lockjaw), mouth partially open with lips drawn
  back.
• Erect ears with the tail elevated and stiff in
  cattle and horses, assume a sawhorse stance.
• Sweating is usually observed.
• The third eyelid protrudes partially across the
  eye (normally not seen in healthy animal).

4

• Temperature slightly above normal, but may reach
  108 to 110oF just prior to the animal dying.
• Animals heart and respiratory rat increase.
• Animal goes down and dies.

5

• Mortality is about 80
• Animals that survive recover in 2 to 6 weeks,
  immunity usually does not develop following
  recovery.

6
Treatment of Tetanus

• Tranquilization of the animal to prevent injury
  during convulsions.
• Antibiotics (penicillin preferred) to kill the
  organism and stop toxin production. Following
  treatment animal becomes sicker due to sudden
  release of toxin from dead bacteria, if they
  survive this they may recover.

7

• Tetanus antitoxin may be used.
• Fluid therapy to prevent dehydration.

8
Prevention of Tetanus

• Vaccinate with tetanus toxoid (active immunity)
  on a yearly basis.
• If an animal is thought to have been exposed
  (wounds or surgical procedures) give tetanus
  antitoxin.
• Keep pastures and housing areas clean and free of
  objects that might cause a puncture wound.