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Related Experiment Videos

Black widow spider envenomation.

Michael E Peterson1

  • 1Reid Veterinary Hospital, 933 SW Queen Avenue, Albany, OR 97321, USA. petersonkate@netscape.net

Clinical Techniques in Small Animal Practice
|February 3, 2007
PubMed
Summary
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Black widow spider venom, particularly from females, poses a significant threat to companion animals like cats and dogs. Prompt administration of specific antivenin is crucial for effective treatment and recovery.

Area of Science:

  • Toxicology
  • Veterinary Medicine
  • Arachnology

Background:

  • Black widow spiders (Latrodectus spp.) are venomous arachnids found across North America.
  • Female black widow spiders possess potent venom containing alpha-latrotoxin, a neurotoxin affecting neurotransmitter release.
  • While bites to humans can be non-envenomating, companion animals exhibit high sensitivity.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To describe the clinical significance and treatment of black widow spider envenomation in companion animals.
  • To highlight the neurotoxic effects of Latrodectus venom.

Main Methods:

  • Review of clinical signs and outcomes associated with black widow spider bites in domestic animals.
  • Identification of key venom components and their physiological effects.

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Main Results:

  • Cats are highly sensitive, often experiencing fatal outcomes, while dogs show severe signs but are more resistant.
  • Clinical signs include extreme pain, abdominal rigidity, and in cats, potential paralysis and hypertension.
  • Alpha-latrotoxin disrupts neurotransmitter systems, leading to rapid onset of symptoms within 8 hours.

Conclusions:

  • Black widow spider envenomation is a serious veterinary emergency, with antivenin therapy being the primary and most effective treatment.
  • Early intervention with antivenin provides rapid relief, though complete recovery may take weeks.
  • Understanding the venom's neurotoxic effects is key to managing Latrodectus envenomation in pets.