Pet Topic: Diagnosing Ciguatera/Fish Poisoning in Dogs and Cats

Dr Rose Hasegawa, medical director of Te Are Manu Veterinary Clinic, wrote that ciguatera poisoning is a foodborne illness caused by eating fish that have accumulated ciguatera toxins, which are produced by marine microorganisms.

While this condition is most commonly associated with human cases, animal owners should be aware that their dogs and cats can also be affected if they consume contaminated fish.

Ciguatera poisoning occurs when fish ingest dinoflagellates that produce ciguatera toxins. In the Cook Islands, the species commonly affected are black surgeonfish (Maito), unicornfish (Ume), snake mackerel (Manga), brown moray eel (A’a pata), red snapper (Anga-mea) and different cod species such as peacock cod (Roi).

These toxins can accumulate in the flesh of the fish and cause poisoning when consumed by other animals or humans. These toxins are heat resistant, which means that cooking or freezing the fish does not eliminate the risk.

In pets, ciguatera poisoning symptoms can vary but are generally similar to those in humans. They may appear anywhere from a few hours to a few days after ingestion. Common symptoms include:

– Gastrointestinal problems – Vomiting and diarrhea are often the first signs that the digestive system is affected.

– Neurological symptoms – Pets may show weakness, ataxia (loss of coordination), muscle tremors and seizures. In severe cases, paralysis may occur.

– Cardiovascular problems – Changes in heart rate and blood pressure may be observed, which can be particularly dangerous in elderly or already ill pets.

– Behavioral Changes – Affected pets may become lethargic, disoriented or excessively vocal due to discomfort and nervous system disturbances.

Diagnosing ciguatera poisoning in pets can be difficult due to the nonspecific symptoms and lack of a definitive test for the condition.

Veterinarians typically rely on the pet’s medical history, including recent dietary intake and exposure to potentially contaminated fish. A neurologic examination and supportive diagnostics may be used to rule out other illnesses with similar presentations. Treatment focuses primarily on supportive care, as there is no specific antidote for ciguatera poisoning.

This may include: – Fluids to combat dehydration from vomiting and diarrhea. – Medications, such as antiemetics, anticonvulsants, and other drugs to control symptoms.

prevention

The best way to protect your pet from ciguatera poisoning is to prevent them from eating potentially contaminated fish. Here are some preventative measures. Avoid feeding dangerous fish; while it may seem natural to let your pet try seafood, it’s safer to stick to pet food or cooked, safe fish. Be careful with leftovers – Be mindful of table scraps you share with your pet.

Ciguatera poisoning is a serious disease that affects animals in the Cook Islands. By being aware of the risks and symptoms and taking preventive measures, you can help reduce the risk of dogs and cats being exposed to ciguatera poisoning. If you suspect your pet has eaten contaminated fish and is showing signs of illness, call Te Are Manu on 27719.

Prompt treatment and supportive care can significantly improve your pet’s prognosis.