I thought I might take the time out to chat about redback spiders today as I had my own dog and cat out on the weekend checking out the woodpile and trying to figure out what critters lay beneath as we planned our winter wood collection. To my horror, my pets and I stumbled across quite a nest of redback spiders.

Redback spiders pose quite a hazard to people and also to pets. A bite can quickly lead to some serious symptoms.

Guinea Pigs are the most susceptible to the bite of a redback. Cats come next and dogs are the most resistant to the bite, but they are certainly not immune. After a redback bites, your pet will show intense pain at the site of the bite, especially if touched. Cats will usually salivate excessively and will produce thick, ropy saliva. The cat will be distressed, restless and breathless. It will usually show muscular weakness or tremors and muscle paralysis.

Dogs are less susceptible to the bite of a redback spider but the signs are similar. Pain at the site of the bite occurs and your dog may also vomit.

An antivenene is available and is rapidly effective. While it is not always used in dogs, it is usually lifesaving with cats. As a minimum, intensive supportive care with intravenous fluids and veterinary anti-inflammatory treatment in hospital is indicated.

Naturally, signs of red back spider bites will cause concern enough to seek swift veterinary help for your pet. Keep an extra watch out for these little redback hazards when lifting wood or other objects.

Dr Renee Pigdon, Petfocus Vetcare