Meningitis and Encephalitis in Dogs

The short version

Inflammation of the meninges, the membranous covering of the brain and spinal cord (meningitis), and inflammation of the brain (encephalitis) often are seen simultaneously (meningoencephalitis), although either can develop separately. Causes of meningitis, encephalitis, and meningoencephalitis include infection by bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa, rickettsia, or parasites. In some cases, the immune system is involved, chemical agents cause the inflammation, or the cause is unknown. In dogs, especially adult animals, viruses, protozoa, rickettsia, and fungi are more frequent causes of meningitis and encephalitis than are bacteria.

Meningitis and encephalitis are less common than infections of other organs, because the nervous system has protective barriers. However, infections may occur when these protective barriers are injured or weakened. Infections can also spread to the central nervous system from the sinuses, the inner ear, vertebrae, or spinal discs; these infections may result from migrating foreign material (eg, grass awns), bite wounds, or other traumatic injuries near the head or spine. Brain abscesses also can arise from direct infections or from blood poisoning. Bacterial meningitis or meningoencephalitis is not common in dogs and is not generally contagious.

For More Information

Also see professional content regarding meningitis and encephalitis.

Frequently asked questions

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