Feline Tetanus Study Guide

Overview and Clinical Importance

Tetanus is a toxigenic neurological disease caused by Clostridium tetani, an obligate anaerobic, gram-positive, spore-forming bacterium. The disease results from the action of the potent neurotoxin tetanospasmin, which blocks inhibitory neurotransmitter release in the central nervous system, leading to sustained muscle rigidity and spasms.

Cats are naturally 12 to 2,400 times more resistant to tetanus toxin than humans or dogs. This innate resistance means feline tetanus is rare but can still occur. Due to their resistance, cats often develop localized or multifocal forms rather than the severe generalized tetanus commonly seen in horses and humans. The prognosis in cats is generally favorable with appropriate treatment, with 92% of affected cats returning to normal ambulatory function.

Etiology and Pathophysiology

The Causative Agent

Clostridium tetani is an obligate anaerobic, gram-positive bacillus that forms terminal spores giving the bacterium a characteristic "drumstick" or "tennis racket" morphology. The spores are extremely hardy and can survive in soil for years. They are ubiquitous in the environment, particularly in soil contaminated with animal feces.