How is leishmaniasis confirmed?

Diagnosis typically requires a combination of blood tests, biochemistry results, and PCR or histological examination. PCR can directly detect the pathogen's genetic material, and the final diagnosis is made by the veterinarian based on all findings.

How long does treatment take before improvement is seen?

The time to clinical improvement varies between individuals and disease stages. Some cases show improvement within a few weeks, but the full treatment course and monitoring may take several months. Follow your vet's advice on recheck appointments.

Can other pets in the household be infected?

Transmission mainly occurs through the bite of vector insects such as sandflies, so the direct risk to housemates is low. However, it is still advisable to discuss preventive measures with your vet and have other animals checked.

How much do diagnostic tests or treatment roughly cost?

Costs depend on the tests required and the length of treatment — discuss an itemised estimate with your clinic before proceeding.

How much do the tests and treatment for this disease usually cost?

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

Disease Guide

Leishmaniasis in Dogs & Cats: Symptoms, PCR Testing & Treatment Guide [2025]

Leishmaniasis is transmitted by sandflies and affects multiple organ systems. Uncommon locally, but important to watch for in pets with a travel history.

Take 1 minute to check the symptoms first

Last updated: 2026/01/05

Pethealthmap Editorial Team

Sources: LeishVet, WSAVA, National Taiwan University Veterinary Hospital

When to See a Vet

Seek Emergency Care Immediately

•Persistent vomiting with inability to drink or signs of severe dehydration
•Extreme lethargy, profound weakness, or complete refusal to eat
•Vomiting or diarrhea with bloody or black tarry stools

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

•Recurring vomiting for more than one day but still able to drink
•Diarrhea or loose stools lasting more than one day with reduced appetite
•Noticeable weight loss or persistent loss of appetite

01What symptoms indicate something is wrong?

Leishmaniasis in dogs and cats typically presents as chronic or intermittent wasting symptoms. Below are the common clinical signs and emergency warning indicators.

Repeated or persistent vomiting lasting more than one day
Diarrhoea or loose stools lasting more than one day
Noticeable weight loss or reduced appetite
Abnormal increase in urination frequency or volume
Significantly increased water intake (polydipsia)
Fever or recurring low-grade fever and lethargy

Seek emergency care immediately if you notice the following symptoms:

⚠️ Persistent vomiting with inability to keep water down, or signs of dehydration
⚠️ Sudden stupor, extreme weakness, or complete refusal to eat
⚠️ Vomit or stool containing blood, or black tarry stools

02How to assess abnormal signs at home: key observations and when to seek emergency care

Recording key information at home before your vet visit helps the veterinarian quickly assess your pet's condition and arrange appropriate tests.

Note the time, frequency, and contents of each vomiting episode
Take photos or videos of diarrhoea or abnormal stools for reference
Weigh your pet regularly and track any changes in body weight
Record the number of urinations and approximate urine output each day
Measure and record daily water intake (estimate in cups or bottles)
Take your pet's temperature and note the time and method used (ear or rectal)

03How will the vet diagnose the condition? Common diagnostic tests

Veterinarians use the following tests to assess for leishmaniasis, determine its severity, and rule out other causes.

Physical examination

assessing mentation, body temperature, mucous membrane colour, and palpation findings

Complete blood count

evaluating red and white blood cells and markers for infection or anaemia

Biochemistry panel

assessing liver and kidney function and electrolyte balance

PCR testing

detecting the pathogen's genetic material to confirm evidence of infection

Tissue biopsy or cytology

examining tissue for pathological changes or signs of parasites

Imaging (if indicated)

CT or ultrasound for further evaluation

04How to treat and care for your pet after diagnosis: medications, diet, and home care

Treatment focuses on controlling the pathogen and improving clinical signs, with regular follow-up tests to monitor efficacy and watch for side effects.

Develop a treatment plan based on test results and schedule regular follow-up visits
Adjust diet and provide nutritional support to maintain body condition and electrolyte balance
Key home care: monitor for vomiting, diarrhoea, changes in water intake, and alertness
Schedule timely blood, biochemistry, and PCR recheck tests to evaluate treatment response
If symptoms do not improve or relapse occurs, arrange a specialist referral or further imaging

05What to prepare before your vet visit: key information to help the vet identify the cause quickly

Bring a symptom log with dates and times of onset for the vet's reference

Prepare photos of faeces or urine, or a fresh sample if possible

List current medications, supplements, and vaccination history

Bring previous relevant test reports (blood work, biochemistry, imaging, etc.)

Consider booking a clinic that can perform PCR testing or tissue sampling in advance

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.