Can brucellosis spread to people or other pets?

Brucella can be transmitted to humans and other animals, especially through contact with secretions or bodily fluids. If infection is suspected, consult your vet and take isolation and protective measures.

How is brucellosis confirmed in dogs and cats?

Diagnosis is typically based on blood or secretion culture or PCR testing, confirmed alongside clinical signs and laboratory findings. Tests are arranged according to your vet's guidance.

Will treatment take a long time?

Treatment and monitoring may take weeks to months, with regular check-ups to track blood results and symptom changes. Follow your vet's instructions for all follow-up appointments.

How much do the tests and treatment usually cost?

Costs vary by clinic and region — ask your vet for an estimate before proceeding.

Disease Guide

Brucellosis in Dogs & Cats: Fever, Lethargy & Diagnosis Guide [2025]

Brucellosis is a zoonotic disease that can cause miscarriage and reproductive problems, requiring careful management

Take 1 minute to check the symptoms first

Last updated: 2026/01/05

Pethealthmap Editorial Team

Sources: AVMA, WSAVA, National Taiwan University College of Veterinary Medicine

When to See a Vet

Seek Emergency Care Immediately

•Persistent high fever with rapidly and significantly declining alertness
•Unable to stand or severely restricted movement
•Heavy vaginal bleeding or sudden expulsion of a fetus

Schedule a Clinic Visit Soon (within 24–72 hours)

•Persistent loss of appetite for more than two days with noticeable lethargy
•Recurring fever or significant temperature fluctuations lasting more than one day
•Joint pain or clearly abnormal gait

01What Symptoms Indicate a Problem?

Brucella infection in dogs and cats may present subtly or become chronic, typically showing non-specific systemic symptoms that require testing to confirm.

Lethargy, noticeably reduced activity, or increased sleepiness
Persistent weakness, easy fatigue, and reduced exercise tolerance
Recurrent fever or abnormal body temperature, with lingering discomfort even after fever subsides
Changes in gait or unsteady walking, possibly with lameness
Pain or localized discomfort when touched — prompt veterinary assessment is advised

Seek emergency care immediately if you notice the following symptoms:

⚠️ Seek immediate attention if there is persistent high fever or a sudden, severe decline in alertness
⚠️ Seek urgent veterinary care if your pet suddenly cannot walk or stand normally
⚠️ Evaluation is needed if there is abnormal vaginal discharge or miscarriage

02What to Watch for at Home: Observation Tips and When to Seek Emergency Care

Home observation helps your vet track the course of the illness — recording specific changes speeds up diagnosis and subsequent treatment.

Monitor and record mental alertness and activity level (daily routines, willingness to play)
Take temperature daily and note the time and reading
Note any changes in appetite, food intake, or food preferences
Watch for changes in urination or defecation frequency, urine colour, unusual odour, or blood in urine
Weigh your pet weekly and track the trend for ongoing monitoring
If fever persists or the condition worsens, arrange a clinic visit for assessment

03How Does the Vet Make a Diagnosis? Common Diagnostic Tests

Your vet will combine a physical examination with laboratory and imaging tests to systematically rule out other causes and confirm the source of infection.

Physical examination

includes palpation, lymph node assessment, and neurological evaluation

Blood and urine tests to assess systemic response and organ function

Bacterial culture

blood or secretion culture to identify the causative organism

PCR (nucleic acid testing)

accelerates pathogen identification

Imaging such as X-rays or ultrasound to evaluate organ or joint changes

Referral or specialist follow-up may be recommended if needed

04Post-Diagnosis Care: Medications, Diet Adjustments & Care Guide

Brucellosis often requires extended monitoring and multiple follow-up tests; your vet will schedule ongoing surveillance based on results.

Antimicrobial treatment and follow-up should be conducted under veterinary supervision with regular check-ups
Regular blood and urine testing to evaluate treatment response and monitor for side effects
Adjust diet as needed and provide nutritional support appropriate to symptoms
Key home care includes rest, hygiene management, and isolation measures
If the condition recurs or test results remain abnormal, imaging or specialist follow-up may be arranged

05What to Prepare Before the Vet Visit: Key Information to Help Your Vet Quickly Identify the Cause

Note when symptoms first appeared and the order in which they developed

Summarise recent changes in appetite, water intake, and elimination habits

Record temperature readings and how long any fever has lasted

List current medications, supplements, and vaccination history

Bring any videos or photos to help with comparison and assessment of the condition's progression

This content is for reference only and cannot replace a professional veterinary diagnosis. If your pet shows signs of illness, please seek veterinary care promptly.