Candidiasis (Fungal Infection with Candida Species, Thrush) in Dogs

  • Occurrence: common
  • Location of illness: General/Whole body, Head/Neck
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Candidiasis, also known as thrush, is a fungal infection caused by various species of the genus Candida. In dogs, the most common species is Candida albicans, which are normally harmless yeasts in the body but can cause disease under certain conditions.

The most important facts at a glance

Candidiasis, also known as fungal infection with Candida species or thrush, is caused in dogs by an imbalance of the microflora in the body. Candida albicans is the most common species found in the digestive tract and on the skin of dogs. Normally, these yeasts live in the body without problems, but factors such as a weakened immune system, antibiotic therapies, or other diseases can disrupt the balance and trigger an infection. Causes include frequent antibiotic treatments, hormonal imbalances, poor nutrition, diabetes, and moist environments.

Symptoms of candidiasis in dogs include itching, increased salivation, skin lesions, fever, hair loss, mucous membrane lesions in the mouth, and discharge from the vagina or nose. Diagnosis requires a thorough examination by a veterinarian, including skin scrapings and possibly cultures. Treatment is with antifungal medications, both topically and systemically, and the correction of predisposing factors such as underlying diseases. The prognosis is generally good if the infection is detected and treated early.

Prevention includes strengthening the immune system through a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate hygiene. Regular veterinary examinations help to detect health problems early. The use of antibiotics should be carefully monitored to avoid an imbalance of the microflora. In humid environments, the skin and ears of the dog should be kept clean and dry to reduce the risk of yeast growth.

Causes

The genus Candida includes more than 200 species, of which about 20 are known to be human pathogens. Candida albicans is the most common species and can be found in both the digestive tract and on the skin of dogs. Under normal conditions, these yeasts live peacefully with other microorganisms on the skin and mucous membranes without causing problems.

The scientific basis of candidiasis in dogs is closely linked to the balance of the microflora in the body. Yeast infections occur when this balance is disturbed, often caused by a weakened immune system, antibiotic therapies, or other diseases that disrupt the natural microbial balance.

Causes of candidiasis in dogs include frequent or prolonged antibiotic treatments, which kill not only harmful bacteria but also beneficial microorganisms that keep Candida growth in check. Other risk factors include hormonal imbalances, poor nutrition, a weak immune system, diabetes, and environmental factors that can contribute to a moist environment in which Candida can thrive.

Symptoms

The symptoms of candidiasis in dogs can vary depending on the affected area of the body but are often characterized by skin and ear infections. Skin infections can lead to severe itching, redness, rashes, and sometimes hair loss. These symptoms are particularly common in skin folds, between the toes, and in the area of the tail.

In the case of an ear infection, there may be an unpleasant odor, excessive earwax, and inflamed ears. The dog may frequently scratch its ears or shake its head. In severe cases, systemic symptoms such as fever, lethargy, and loss of appetite may also occur if the infection enters the bloodstream.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing candidiasis in dogs requires a detailed examination by a veterinarian. Initially, a thorough anamnesis is performed to identify possible predisposing factors. The veterinarian will then perform a physical examination to recognize characteristic signs of a yeast infection.

To confirm the diagnosis, various tests can be performed, including skin scrapings that are examined under the microscope to determine the presence of yeasts. In some cases, a culture can be created to identify the specific Candida strain and test its sensitivity to antifungals.

Therapy

Treatment of candidiasis in dogs depends on the severity of the infection and the affected area of the body. Antifungal medications are usually prescribed to kill the yeast. These can be administered topically, in the form of creams or shampoos, or systemically, in the form of tablets.

In addition to drug therapy, it is important to address predisposing factors to prevent recurrence of the infection. This includes treating underlying conditions, such as hormonal disorders or diabetes, and optimizing the dog’s diet and living conditions.

Prognosis and follow-up care

The prognosis for dogs with candidiasis is generally good, especially if the infection is detected and treated early. Most dogs respond well to treatment, and symptoms can be relieved within a few weeks. However, it is important to complete the entire therapy to ensure that all yeasts are killed and the infection does not return.

In cases where the infection is favored by an underlying chronic disease, the prognosis may vary. Continuous monitoring and occasional adjustments to treatment may be necessary to prevent recurrence of the infection.

Prevention

The prevention of candidiasis in dogs focuses on maintaining a healthy immune system and avoiding the factors that promote Candida growth. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate hygiene are crucial to strengthen the immune system and keep the skin barrier intact.

Regular veterinary examinations can help to detect and treat potential health problems early. In addition, the use of antibiotics should be carefully monitored to minimize the risk of microflora imbalance. In humid environments, it is important to keep the dog’s skin and ears clean and dry to reduce the risk of yeast growth.

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