What do cats get infected with from ticks? - briefly
Cats can contract diseases such as Lyme disease, cytauxzoonosis, and anaplasmosis from tick bites, which pose serious health risks if untreated.
What do cats get infected with from ticks? - in detail
Cats can contract several serious diseases from ticks, which act as vectors for various pathogens. One of the most common illnesses is Lyme disease, caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi. While Lyme disease is more frequently diagnosed in dogs, cats can also be affected, though they often show fewer clinical signs. Symptoms, when present, may include lethargy, fever, and joint pain. Another significant disease is Cytauxzoonosis, caused by the protozoan parasite Cytauxzoon felis. This condition is particularly severe and often fatal, with symptoms such as high fever, anemia, jaundice, and difficulty breathing. Ticks can also transmit Anaplasmosis, caused by the bacterium Anaplasma phagocytophilum, which may lead to fever, lethargy, and joint pain in infected cats. Additionally, Babesiosis, caused by Babesia species, can occur, leading to anemia, weakness, and pale gums due to the destruction of red blood cells. Ehrlichiosis, caused by Ehrlichia species, is another tick-borne disease that can affect cats, resulting in fever, weight loss, and lethargy. Prevention is crucial, as these diseases can be challenging to treat and may cause long-term health issues. Regular use of tick preventatives, thorough tick checks, and prompt removal of attached ticks are essential measures to protect cats from these infections. If a cat shows signs of illness after a tick bite, immediate veterinary attention is necessary to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.