Test titre results depend on many factors and the above information relates mainly to the IFAT used at Liverpool University, and not necessarily to tests carried out by other labs. Post-mortem findings may confirm the disease in fatal cases. Since the drugs have few side effects and are relatively cheap, this might even be before serological test results are available. Supportive treatment, e.g. aspirin like drugs, low doses of corticosteroids, plus good nursing care e.g. bladder expression and physiotherapy are also beneficial. About half of appropriately treated dogs might be expected to make a full or functional recovery, although many are left with an odd gait, muscle wastage or roached back.
Rigid hyperextension is the sign least likely to be reversed.
If this hyperextension is unilateral, amputation of the affected limb may improve the dogs mobility. Peracute and very chronic cases are the least likely to respond. There is also evidence that some, generally more mildly affected, dogs make a spontaneous recovery. Fewer than half of these infected pups are ever likely to develop clinical signs of neosporosis. Transmission can occur repeatedly over several consecutive litters.