American Beaver (Castor canadensis)

American Beaver

Castor canadensis

IDAPA Classification: Furbearing Animals

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Health Issues Which May Affect This Animal

Tuleremia

What Causes This Disease?

Tularemia is a bacterial disease caused by the bacteria Francisella tularensis.

Where Is The Disease Found?

Tularemia occurs in many parts of North America in both the terrestrial and aquatic forms. The disease has been documented in aquatic rodents and rabbits in Idaho but is not common.

Signs of Disease

In rabbits and hares clinical signs include lethargy and ill thrift. Tularemia causes lesions on the spleen and liver which are usually swollen and contain white spots. In humans, signs of Tularemia vary depending on the route of infection. Skin ulcers can be seen, usually on the hands, and typically associated with cuts or scratches acquired while skinning hares/rabbits. Glands can also become quite swollen.

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