Colibacillosis (Bacterial Infectious Disease Caused by E. Coli) in Dogs

  • Occurrence: common
  • Location of illness: Abdomen/pelvis
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Colibacillosis is a bacterial infectious disease in dogs caused by the bacterium Escherichia coli (E. coli). This infection can cause a variety of symptoms, ranging from mild gastrointestinal discomfort to serious systemic diseases.

The most important facts at a glance

Colibacillosis in dogs is caused by pathogenic strains of the bacterium Escherichia coli, which is normally found in the intestine. If these bacteria leave the intestine or the immune system is weakened, they can trigger infections. The infection occurs mainly fecal-orally, for example through contact with contaminated excrement or environments. Typical symptoms include loss of appetite, Diarrhea, Vomiting, Apathy, and dehydration. In more severe cases, bloody Diarrhea, Fever, and increased heart rate may occur.

The diagnosis is based on the anamnesis, the clinical symptoms, and the detection of pathogenic E. coli strains in the feces. Laboratory tests help to identify the specific strain and determine the appropriate antibiotic therapy. Treatment varies depending on the severity of the symptoms. Milder cases can be treated with rehydration and dietary management, while more severe infections require antibiotics and possibly more intensive care. Probiotics can help restore normal intestinal flora.

The prognosis is good if the disease is detected and treated early. However, delaying treatment can make recovery more difficult, especially in young or immunocompromised dogs. Preventive measures include good hygiene, regular cleaning of the environment, and a balanced diet. Regular veterinary check-ups and vaccinations strengthen the immune system and reduce the risk of infection. Thorough hand washing after handling dogs and controlling insects that can spread bacteria are also important.

Causes

Escherichia coli is a gram-negative bacterium that naturally occurs in the intestinal tract of humans and animals. Not all strains of E. coli are pathogenic; some are part of the normal intestinal flora and play a role in digestion and nutrient absorption. Pathogenic strains, on the other hand, can cause infections if they get outside the intestine or if the host’s immune system is weakened.

Pathogenic E. coli strains are divided into various categories, including enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC), enteropathogenic E. coli (EPEC), and enterohemorrhagic E. coli (EHEC). These strains produce toxins or cause damage to the intestinal cells, which leads to the clinical symptoms of colibacillosis.

The transmission of E. coli is mainly fecal-oral, which means that dogs can become infected through contact with contaminated excrement or environments. Poor hygiene, contaminated food or water, and contact with infected animals increase the risk of infection.

Symptoms

Rare symptoms:

The symptoms of colibacillosis in dogs can vary depending on the age, immune status of the dog, and virulence of the E. coli strain. In young puppies whose immune systems are not yet fully developed, the symptoms may be more severe.

Typical symptoms include Diarrhea, which may be watery or bloody, Vomiting, loss of appetite, and lethargy. In severe cases, dehydration and electrolyte imbalance can occur, which can lead to further complications.

Systemic infections can occur when the bacterium enters the bloodstream. This can lead to Fever, shock, and multiple organ failure. Such severe cases require immediate veterinary treatment.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of colibacillosis is based on the anamnesis, the clinical symptoms, and the detection of E. coli in the dog’s feces. A stool examination in the laboratory can be performed to confirm the presence of pathogenic E. coli strains.

Cultures and sensitivity tests are important to identify the specific strain and determine the appropriate antibiotic therapy. In some cases, a blood test may also be necessary to assess the extent of the infection and rule out other possible causes for the symptoms.

Therapy

The treatment of colibacillosis depends on the severity of the symptoms. In mild cases, supportive therapy may be sufficient, including the administration of electrolyte solutions for rehydration and dietary management to relieve the intestines.

In more severe cases, antibiotic therapy is necessary to combat the infection. The choice of antibiotic is based on the results of sensitivity tests to ensure effective treatment.

In addition, probiotics can be administered to support the restoration of normal intestinal flora. In cases of systemic infections, more intensive care, including intravenous fluids and monitoring in the hospital, may be necessary.

Prognosis and follow-up care

The prognosis for dogs with colibacillosis is generally good if the disease is detected and treated early. Most dogs recover completely with the right treatment.

In more severe cases, or if treatment is delayed, the prognosis may be less favorable, especially in young puppies or dogs with weakened immune systems. Rapid and appropriate veterinary intervention significantly improves the chances of a full recovery.

Prevention

The prevention of colibacillosis in dogs is based on good hygiene and management practices. This includes regular cleaning of living areas and feeding areas to minimize the spread of bacteria.

A balanced diet and maintaining a healthy immune system through regular veterinary check-ups and vaccinations can also reduce the risk of infection. It is important to avoid contact with infected animals and contaminated environments.

When handling dogs, it is advisable to wash your hands thoroughly, especially after contact with feces or potentially contaminated objects. Measures to control flies and other insects that can spread bacteria are also helpful.

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You can find an interesting overview of gastrointestinal problems in dogs, supplemented with information on the intestinal microbiome and the importance of probiotics, here: https://petsvetcheck.de/fachbeitrag/magen-darm-probleme-beim-hund/