Plague in Animals

Plague is an infectious bacterial disease that is transmitted primarily by fleas on rats and other rodents. It can transmit through a flea bite or by direct contact with an infected animal, included rodents, wildlife, and pets. Household cats and dogs are known for developing plague much like humans. They are susceptible to get plague when they are allowed to roam and hunt in contaminated area. The incubation period is about 1 to 4 days. The areas that are most common for plague cases to appear are New Mexico (east mountains), California, Colorado, and Arizona.

Symptoms:

• Fever
• Anorexia
• Lethargy
• Enlarged lymph nodes
• Skin abscess/ lesions
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting

Diagnosis:

Our doctors will examine your animal and diagnostics samples will be taken. With today’s antibiotics, the plague can be treated if done promptly.  

Plague Prevention:

• Keep your pets from roaming and hunting
• Clean up areas near the house where rodents could live
• Sick pets should be examined promptly by a veterinarian
• Use appropriate Flea Preventative medications on your pets.

For the most update information about the human and animal plague cases in New Mexico, please visit https://nmhealth.org/about/erd/ideb/zdp/plg/