What will happen if a cat is bitten by an encephalitic tick? - briefly
A cat infected by an encephalitis‑carrying tick can exhibit fever, lethargy, tremors, seizures, or other neurological disturbances, and the disease may be lethal without treatment. Immediate veterinary assessment and targeted antimicrobial plus supportive care are required.
What will happen if a cat is bitten by an encephalitic tick? - in detail
A tick that carries encephalitic viruses attaches to the cat’s skin, typically in warm, hidden areas such as the neck, ears, or between the toes. During the feeding process, the tick inserts its mouthparts into the dermis and releases saliva containing the pathogen. Transmission of the virus usually occurs after the tick has been attached for several hours; the longer the attachment, the higher the probability of infection.
Within 24–72 hours after exposure, the cat may exhibit the first clinical signs, which can include:
- Fever and lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Muscle tremors or generalized shaking
- Ataxia, manifested as unsteady gait or difficulty maintaining balance
- Altered mental status, ranging from mild confusion to seizures
If the disease progresses, the central nervous system becomes increasingly compromised. Typical developments are:
- Neurological deterioration – worsening of ataxia, pronounced tremors, and repeated seizures.
- Respiratory impairment – irregular breathing patterns caused by brainstem involvement.
- Cardiovascular instability – irregular heart rate and potential shock.
Laboratory evaluation includes complete blood count, serum biochemistry, and cerebrospinal fluid analysis, which often reveals pleocytosis and elevated protein. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing of blood or cerebrospinal fluid confirms the presence of the specific encephalitic virus.
Therapeutic measures focus on supportive care:
- Intravenous fluids to maintain hydration and electrolyte balance.
- Anticonvulsant drugs (e.g., phenobarbital or diazepam) to control seizures.
- Anti‑inflammatory agents such as corticosteroids to reduce cerebral edema.
- Broad‑spectrum antibiotics may be administered empirically to address secondary bacterial infections.
Prognosis depends on the speed of diagnosis and the severity of neurological signs at presentation. Early intervention can lead to partial or full recovery, whereas delayed treatment often results in permanent neurological deficits or fatality.
Prevention relies on regular tick control: topical acaricides, oral tick‑preventive medications, and routine inspection of the animal’s coat after outdoor exposure. Maintaining a clean environment and reducing wildlife access to the yard further lowers the risk of tick encounters.