What symptoms appear if a tick bites a cat? - briefly
A tick bite can cause a red, inflamed spot that may develop into a small scab, and it can also trigger fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, or anemia if pathogens are transmitted.
What symptoms appear if a tick bites a cat? - in detail
A tick attachment can trigger a range of clinical signs in felines, varying from mild irritation to severe systemic illness.
Local reactions are often the first observable changes. The cat may exhibit:
- Redness or swelling at the bite site
- A small ulcer or crusted lesion where the tick was removed
- Scratching or grooming of the affected area, sometimes leading to hair loss
If the tick transmits pathogens, additional manifestations can develop within days to weeks:
- Fever, reflected by lethargy and reduced appetite
- Anemia, indicated by pale mucous membranes and weakness, caused by blood loss or hemolytic agents
- Joint pain or limping, commonly associated with Borrelia infections (Lyme disease)
- Neurological signs such as tremors, ataxia, or facial paralysis, linked to Anaplasma or Bartonella spp.
- Renal involvement, presenting as increased thirst, urination, or vomiting, in cases of Ehrlichia or Babesia infections
Systemic inflammation may produce generalized swelling of lymph nodes, especially around the head and neck. In severe cases, disseminated infection can lead to multi‑organ failure, characterized by rapid breathing, cyanosis, and collapse.
Prompt removal of the tick, followed by veterinary evaluation, is essential to identify the specific agent and initiate appropriate therapy, which may include antibiotics, antiparasitics, or supportive care. Early detection of the described signs improves prognosis and reduces the risk of long‑term complications.