When the temperatures rise, and you and your furry friend want to cool off, you may take a dip in a local pond or lake. Before diving into the refreshing water, however, check to see if it is safe. An often overlooked water hazard is harmful algae. Blue-green and red algae can pose significant health risks to pets, leading to severe illness or death. Our Omega Veterinary Group team explores what these algae are, why they are dangerous, and how you can protect your pet from their toxic effects.
Understanding blue-green and red algae to help keep your pet safe
Blue-green algae, cyanobacteria, are microscopic organisms that thrive in fresh and brackish water. Despite their name, they can appear in a range of colors, including blue, green, red, and brown. These algae thrive in warm, nutrient-rich waters, often blooming during the late summer or early fall.
Red algae, which primarily live in marine environments, are another algae type that can be harmful, producing algal blooms known as “red tides.” While red tides are less common in freshwater, they can affect coastal regions and pose health risks to pets who frequent beaches or coastal waters.
Why are blue-green and red algae dangerous to pets?
Blue-green and red algae can produce toxins that are harmful to pets, wildlife, and people. The specific toxins vary, but their effects can be equally devastating. Toxins produced by blue-green algae include:
- Microcystins — These toxins primarily affect the liver, causing vomiting, diarrhea, bloody or tarry stool, pale gums, jaundice, and seizures.
- Cylindrospermopsin — This toxin also targets the liver and can cause kidney damage and gastrointestinal (GI) distress.
- Anatoxins — These neurotoxins’ signs can develop rapidly, including muscle tremors, muscle rigidity, seizures, respiratory paralysis, and death.
Red algae usually invade coastal regions, but they are no less toxic than blue-green algae. Toxins produced by red algae include:
- Brevetoxins — These neurotoxins can affect the nervous system, causing drooling, vomiting, disorientation, and seizures.
- Saxitoxins — These toxins are another neurotoxin group that can cause paralysis and respiratory failure.
What are algal poisoning signs in pets?
Algal poisoning signs can vary depending on the type and amount of toxin ingested or absorbed. Signs can develop in as few as 15 minutes after exposure and may include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Excessive drooling
- Weakness or lethargy
- Disorientation or confusion
- Pale gums
- Yellow skin
- Muscle tremors or rigidity
- Difficulty breathing
- Seizures
- Coma
In severe cases, exposure to these toxins can be fatal within hours. Seek immediate veterinary care if you suspect your pet has been exposed to toxic algae.
How can I protect my pet from toxic algae?
Knowing whether a water body is contaminated with harmful bacteria without testing is impossible. However, to protect your pet from potential toxic algae exposure, follow these tips:
- Stay informed — Check local advisories for water quality reports, especially during the warmer months when algal blooms are more likely.
- Inspect the water — Before allowing your pet to swim in a water body, inspect the water for algae signs. Look for discolored water, surface scum, or foam.
- Stay out — If you’re unsure about the water’s safety, err on the side of caution and keep your pet away.
What should I do if my pet has been exposed to toxic algae?
If you are concerned that your pet has been swimming in or drinking from a potentially contaminated water body, act quickly to prevent them from developing serious illness. Follow these tips:
- Rinse off your pet’s fur — Rinse your pet’s fur thoroughly with clean, fresh water as soon as possible.
- Monitor your pet for illness — Keep a close eye on your pet for algal poisoning signs which can appear rapidly, but can sometimes take days to develop.
- Seek veterinary care — Contact your primary care veterinarian as soon as possible if you suspect your pet has come in contact with contaminated water, as algae toxicity can rapidly prove fatal without prompt treatment. If you notice any issues, immediately contact your primary care veterinarian or call our Omega Veterinary Group team.
Blue-green and red algae hazards are real and can have severe consequences for pets and people alike. By staying informed, avoiding contaminated waters, and acting quickly if exposure occurs, you can protect your pet’s health. If your four-legged friend has been swimming in or drinking from a body of water that may contain toxic algae, contact our Omega Veterinary Group team immediately.
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