We’re continuing to track informal reports of canine infectious respiratory disease in a number of areas. Leprosy - Leprosy - History: People tend to think of leprosy as a tropical disease because most cases today are found in less-developed countries, which are mainly in the tropics. It can be cured. Leukemia in dogs is a form of cancer that results in an increased white blood cell count in the blood stream and bone marrow. Leptospirosis is a disease caused by a bacterial infection which can lead to severe kidney and liver damage in dogs and can be spread to humans. Leprosy, also known as Hansen's disease (HD), is a long-term infection by the bacteria Mycobacterium leprae or Mycobacterium lepromatosis. Pythiosis in Dogs Pythiosis is an infectious disease caused by a fungus-like organism, Pythiuminsidiosum, that naturally inhabits wetlands, ponds, and swamps. Leprosy is the name used to describe skin infections with a number of mycobacterial species that cause single or multiple inflammatory nodules (granulomas) to develop in the skin or just under the skin (subcutaneous tissues). In 1200 ce an estimated 19,000 leprosy hospitals existed all over Europe. Today, we also know how to reduce the risk of catching it. These are compelling reasons to keep your cats indoors! Leprosy (or Hansen’s disease) is a chronic, progressive bacterial infection that can cause disfigurement and disability if left untreated. Leprosy was once feared as a highly contagious and devastating disease, but now we know it doesn’t spread easily and treatment is very effective. Presumably dogs become infected by ingesting, or swimming in contaminated water. With treatment, you can prevent problems, such as the loss of feeling or blindness. However, if left untreated, the nerve damage can result in crippling of hands and feet, paralysis, and blindness. 3) Feline leprosy is not directly contagious to other cats or dogs. Click here for the latest version of our canine infectious respiratory disease complex (CIRDC) map (December 17). In up to 50% of cases, feline leprosy may be due to infection with Mycobaterium lepraemurium. It can be acute or chronic with the acute form being more malignant. Leprosy, also called Hansen’s disease, is a contagious disease. Cats with immunosuppressive diseases such as FeLV or FIV are at a greater risk. This has not always been the case. Infection can lead to damage of the nerves, respiratory tract, skin, and eyes. Dogs are the maintenance host for Leptospira interrogans serovar Canicola, and before widespread vaccination programs, serovars Canicola and Icterohaemorrhagiae were the most common serovars in dogs in the USA. These problems can only develop when someone has leprosy for a long time. Firstly, reduce the yeast population in your dog’s body (yeast is a common allergy issue). What causes leprosy in cats? Leprosy is not highly contagious. INDIANAPOLIS -- Concern among pet owners is growing after a potentially deadly bacteria was reported in parts of central Indiana. Your dog’s diet is perhaps the most effective way to prevent ailments from developing. It must enter body through wounds, such as bite or scratch wounds. Your canine’s diet should be free of by-products, chemicals and fillers. How do people get leprosy? Discover the symptoms and see pictures. The disease is much older than that, however, and it is believed to have originated on the Indian subcontinent. Outdoor cats are far more at risk than indoor cats. In dogs, the disease usually is manifested by gastroenteritis or dermatitis. 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