Tetanus in cats

Tetanus is a potentially life-threatening disease in many animals. Fortunately, it’s an uncommon disease in cats as most are fairly resistant to tetanus. However, some cats may need intensive care if they have a severe form of the disease and early veterinary treatment is important for a successful recovery.

Tetanus is caused by the neurotoxin of the bacterium Clostridium tetani which is found in soil. The neurotoxin enters the cat’s bloodstream usually via an open wound and prevents nerve communication and muscle relaxation resulting in uncontrolled muscle spasms.

Even small wounds can allow Clostridium tetani contamination and, because the incubation period is 7-21 days, the wound may have healed by the time the first signs of the disease are apparent. The bacteria may also be hidden (eg in the mouth or nail bed). Often owners are not even aware that their cat has had a wound or thought it minor and of no importance until their pet develops the signs of a tetanus infection.

The toxin that is produced by Clostridium tetani enters the motor nerves of the cat and causes generalized or localized muscle spasms. If localized, it usually affects one area or one limb and you may notice your cat has become stiff and has difficulty walking.

If generalized, your cat may have muscle spasms. These usually start in the head and then progress through the cat’s body. As the facial muscles are affected, your cat may have an altered facial expression due to the muscles in the face becoming fixed. They may appear to have a forced or ‘sardonic’ grin, a frown, third eye prolapse (cherry eye) and may also be unable to eat or drink. Their ears may appear erect, and their jaw fixed (‘lockjaw’). Muscle spasms will also affect the voice box and the cat may develop difficulty breathing due to laryngeal spasms.

The cat may have an abnormal gait and stance (often described as a ‘rocking-horse’ stance) and be unable to get up, sit down and walk. In extreme cases, the head may be drawn back over body and the limbs rigidly extended.

Your veterinarian will diagnose tetanus based on your cat’s history and clinical signs. Let your veterinarian know if your cat has recently had any wounds where bacteria may have entered.

If diagnosed with tetanus, your cat will be put in a darkened, quiet room to reduce external stimulation. If respiratory support is needed to help your cat breathe more easily, your veterinarian may carry out a procedure called tracheal intubation to provide ventilation. Your cat will be given fluid therapy via a drip, muscle relaxants and sedatives to make them more comfortable, and antibiotics. Nutritional support via feeding tubes may also be given.

Cats with tetanus usually recover within weeks or months. However, severe generalized forms of the disease may require your cat to be in intensive care for several weeks so that their nerves can recover from the effects of the toxin. The outlook for cats with this severe form is guarded.

The best way to prevent your cat getting tetanus is to wash any wounds thoroughly and to be aware of the signs of tetanus. Tetanus is uncommon in cats and tetanus vaccination is not recommended. Good wound care is essential so if your cat has any bites or puncture wounds, make sure these are cleaned thoroughly.

Contact your veterinarian if you have any concerns as early detection is important.