Definition of Meningitis

Meningitis is defined as inflammation of the meninges, which are the membrane layers that cover and protect the outer surface of the brain and spinal cord. Meningitis is not a “disease” per se. Rather, it is a serious and painful pathological condition involving inflammation and frequently infection of the delicate tissues surrounding the brain. It can be caused by a number of diseases or disorders.

Causes of Canine Meningitis

Most cases of canine meningitis are caused by secondary complications of diseases that start elsewhere in the body, including viral, protozoan, bacterial, parasitic or fungal infections. The causative agent can be anything that triggers inflammation in a particular dog. Some known causes are infected bite wounds on the head and neck and bacterial migration to the brain from infected sinuses, nasal passages, middle ears or elsewhere. Meningitis can also be aseptic, which means that it is caused by a non-bacterial disease of unknown origin. Aseptic meningitis tends to affect young, large-breed dogs between 4 and 24 months of age. Meningitis is an extremely serious condition that should not be taken lightly.

Prevention of Meningitis

There is no way to prevent meningitis, other than preventing the underlying cause of the condition. As with most illnesses, a high-quality diet, free access to fresh water, good housing conditions and regular veterinary check-ups will support a healthy immune system in domestic dogs and reduce the risk of infectious disease.

Special Notes

Meningitis can be difficult to diagnose and to treat. The long-term prognosis for dogs with meningitis is generally poor.