Enterotoxemia in Dogs

Clostridium perfringens bacteria are commonly found in soil and in the digestive systems of animals. They can produce harmful toxins that, when released, can cause enteritis (inflammation of the intestines) and enterotoxemia (absorption of toxins into the body).

There are five types of Clostridium perfringens, but only type A is known to cause enterotoxemia in dogs. Type A is also linked to diarrhea in dogs that can be bloody, sudden, and severe, or long-term and intermittent. Treatment requires isolation of affected animals, thorough cleanup of contaminated environments, and administration of antibiotics.