There are different types of autoimmune diseases which are characterized based on the body system they are attacking. Let’s discuss several of the autoimmune diseases pets may face.
Symptoms of autoimmune disease generally may include the following:
- Fever
- Weight Loss
- Lethargy
Addison’s Disease
This disease develops when the immune system attacks the adrenal gland. Symptoms are usually non-specific and may include:
- Lethargy
- Diarrhea
- Increased thirst
Lupus
This is a disease in which multiple organs are attacked by the immune system. Symptoms may include:
- Loss of fur
- Arthritis
- Loss of appetite
- Anemia
- Weight loss
- Fever
- Ulcerations on the skin
Pemphigus foliaceus
- Crusting lesions of the nose, face and ears
- Thickening of the footpads
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
- Depression
Anemia (symptom of immune-mediated haemolytic anaemia)
Occurs when immune system attacks a pet’s red blood cells. Symptoms of anemia may include:
- Lethargy
- Jaundice
- Pale gums
- Weakness
- Poor appetite
- Weight loss
- Exercise intolerance
- Rapid breathing
- Rapid heart rate
- Fever
- Black stools
- Red or purple spots on the body
- Bruising
- Collapse
Thrombocytopenia (symptom of immune-mediated thrombocytopenia)
This occurs when the immune system attacks a pet’s platelets. This condition prevents your pet’s blood from clotting properly. Symptoms include:
- Frequent nosebleeds
- Internal bleeding
- Uncontrollable bleeding with even minor injuries
- Bruising of the skin and gums
- Blood in the urine or stools
- Pale gums
- Lethargy
- Weakness
Immune mediated polyarthritis
This disease involves the development of immune complexes which results in damage of local tissues within the joints. Symptoms of polyarthritis may include:
- Difficulty moving or walking
- “Clicking” joints when moving
- Altered gait or lameness
- Multiple swollen and painful joints
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
Diagnosis and Treatment of an Autoimmune Disease
As you can see, there is a wide range of symptoms associated with different autoimmune diseases. The diagnosis of an autoimmune disease is challenging. In order for your veterinarian to determine if your pet has an autoimmune disease, certain diagnostic tests will be performed which could include blood tests and imaging modality such as x-rays, ultrasound. The treatment of autoimmune diseases varies and requires certain medications to control.
In addition to medication, some might want to include a holistic approach when treating autoimmune disorders in pets. You should discuss these additional treatments with your vet to make sure they’re safe for them and won’t interfere with other medications.
- Supplements. These may include ingredients like turmeric, a known anti-inflammatory, or Omega 3, vitamin E, Selenium and vitamin C. A probiotic may also be helpful.
- Massage by a trained professional who’s aware of your pet’s condition.
Appointment/Enquiry:
3650 3000 (Mon-Sun: 9:00am – 7:00pm)
Address:
G-2/F, Trinity Towers, 339 Lai Chi Kok Road, Sham Shui Po
Online booking for revisit with primary care veterinarians or vaccination:
https://www.cityuvmc.com.hk/en/online-booking