Tetanus in Dogs and Cats

Tetanus is a non-communicable disease caused by the bacteria Clostridium tetani whose transmission occurs through contamination of wounds with soil, feces, or dust. The disease is known since antiquity. The clinical features are reported in detail on an ancient Egyptian papyrus 3,000 years ago. Pathogenesis of this disease is similar between humans and animals. Tetanus treatment aims to neutralize toxins in circulation, prevent the production of additional toxins through the eradication of the Clostridium tetani. This book revises scientific literature concerning classification and biology, epidemiology, clinical signs, diagnostic techniques, therapeutic approach, prognosis and public health concerns of Clostridium tetani in dogs and cats.