Veterinarian explains how to correctly interpret the symptoms
Ingelheim. In spring, dogs and cats can fight with sudden fatigue, drivelessness and a general lack of energy. The four-legged friends make the four-legged friends look almost depressed. The spook often goes back after a few weeks – but what if not? Because this condition is not always due to the typical spring fatigue. A parasite infestation can also cause similar symptoms.
Dr. Verena Große Liesner, veterinarian at Boehringer Ingelheim, explains why this is how veterinarians differentiate between the two conditions and what can be done for the health of the animal in spring.
Why do dogs and cats suffer from spring fatigue?
“In spring, the animal's body has to change after the colder winter months,” explains Dr. Big Liesner. “The metabolism needs more energy to react to the higher temperatures and the changed light ratio.” The change of fur also plays a role in this: the thick winter fur is repelled and the new, lighter summer fur is growing. These natural processes are exhausting for the body of the animals and can lead to temporary exhaustion. Another important reason for spring fatigue is the low serotonin level after the dark winter months. “Serotonin has an impact on well -being, and a lack of it can result in moods and lack of drive,” said Dr. Large Liesner.
Why are the symptoms of
Spring fatigue and parasite infestation?
“Both conditions burden the animals' metabolism, but in different ways,” says the veterinarian. In the case of spring fatigue, the body processes the changeover to the warmer months. “Parasites, on the other hand, can withdraw nutrients and put their bodies under stress. Ticks, fleas and the like can disrupt the metabolism, burden the animal's immune system and affect the body's energy supply. Above all, very young, old or sick animals can be affected.” Here, too, drowsiness and reduced activity can be shown.
“The symptoms such as listlessness, reduced joy of movement and a general discomfort can occur in both spring fatigue and a parasite infestation,” explains the expert. “This makes it difficult to distinguish the two causes from each other. A thorough examination by a veterinarian is therefore essential.”
How do veterinarians differentiate between spring tiredness and parasite infestation?
“With a pet with the typical symptoms of spring fatigue, it makes sense to first carry out a detailed examination to ensure that no parasites are responsible,” says Dr. Big Liesner. First you search for visible signs of fleas, ticks or mites in the fur and on the skin of the animal. If there is suspicion of mites, a skin sample can be removed and microscopically examined. A fecal examination is also part of the diagnosis to exclude intestinal parasites.
“If no parasites are found, but the symptoms such as general fatigue, increased need for sleep and drive are available, further investigations follows metabolic disorders or other organ diseases. If they do not provide any indications, you can also consider spring fatigue,” says Dr. Big Liesner. This is usually temporary and subsides on its own after a few weeks. But even then the following applies: If you are uncertainty or persistent symptoms, a veterinarian should always be consulted.
How can you support the health of the animal in spring?
With the right prevention measures such as spot-on preparations or chewing tablets, the risk of parasite infestation can be reduced. Furthermore, pet owners should keep an eye on the general state of health of their animal, especially during the transitional times in spring and autumn. “A balanced diet that covers the animal's energy requirement and sufficient movement in the fresh air also help to promote well -being,” adds Dr. Finally, large Liesner.
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