What can a cat contract from a tick? - briefly
Ticks can transmit several pathogens to felines, including Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Ehrlichia spp., Babesia spp., and Borrelia burgdorferi, the agent of Lyme disease. In some regions, Rickettsia species and other tick‑borne agents have also been reported in cats.
What can a cat contract from a tick? - in detail
Tick‑borne infections in felines encompass a range of bacterial, protozoal, and viral agents. Exposure occurs when an engorged tick attaches to the skin, injects saliva, and transfers pathogens. The most frequently reported conditions include:
- Babesiosis («Babesia felis»). Hemolytic anemia, fever, lethargy. Diagnosis by blood smear or PCR; treatment with imidocarb or atovaquone‑azithromycin.
- Cytauxzoonosis («Cytauxzoon felis»). Rapid onset of fever, icterus, dyspnea. Confirmed by PCR or cytology; therapy with azithromycin‑doxycycline combination.
- Ehrlichiosis (Ehrlichia spp.). Signs of thrombocytopenia, lymphadenopathy, weight loss. Detected by serology or PCR; doxycycline recommended for 28 days.
- Anaplasmosis (Anaplasma phagocytophilum). Presents with fever, joint pain, ocular inflammation. PCR confirms infection; doxycycline effective.
- Lyme disease (Borrelia burgdorferi). Joint swelling, renal involvement possible. Serology indicates exposure; doxycycline or amoxicillin used for treatment.
- Rocky Mountain spotted fever (Rickettsia rickettsii). Fever, petechiae, edema. PCR or immunofluorescence assay for diagnosis; doxycycline is drug of choice.
- Bartonella henselae (cat‑scratch disease). May cause lymphadenopathy, fever, ocular lesions. PCR or culture required; azithromycin commonly prescribed.
- Hepatozoonosis (Hepatozoon canis, Hepatozoon felis). Muscle pain, fever, gastrointestinal signs. Diagnosis by muscle biopsy or PCR; treatment with clindamycin and pyrimethamine.
Tick paralysis, a neurotoxic condition caused by tick salivary toxins, can affect cats. Clinical picture includes progressive weakness and ataxia. Immediate removal of the tick usually resolves symptoms; supportive care may be necessary.
Prevention relies on regular application of acaricidal products, environmental control, and routine inspection after outdoor activity. Early detection through physical examination and laboratory testing improves prognosis for most tick‑associated diseases.