How do we diagnose leptospirosis?
Diagnosis is difficult. The microagglutination test measures serum antibodies against various leptospiral serovars. For best results, two blood samples should be takenone at the start, and a second sample taken 7 to 14 days after the first test. It is difficult to demonstrate the actual organism under the microscope and extremely difficult to grow it in culture. A positive titer (antibody response) must be interpreted with caution. Things which may interfere with the test result and cause false results include recent vaccination, cross-reactivity between serovars, and controversy about significance of the titer. What should I do if my dog or cat contract leptospirosis? Early symptoms may be similar to other disease. They may include fever, vomiting, jaundice, dark bloody urine and dehydration. If your pet becomes ill, please contact your veterinarian immediately. Kidney failure and liver disease are treated with intravenous fluid and antibiotic therapy. Usually a penicillin-type antibi
