Why are ticks dangerous for cats?

Why are ticks dangerous for cats? - briefly

Ticks transmit pathogens like Ehrlichia and Babesia, causing fever, anemia, organ dysfunction, or death in felines, and their bites can provoke severe allergic reactions or significant blood loss that weakens the animal.

Why are ticks dangerous for cats? - in detail

Ticks attach to a cat’s skin, pierce the epidermis with barbed mouthparts, and remain embedded for several days. During this period they inject saliva that contains anticoagulants, anti‑inflammatory compounds, and a range of pathogens. The combination of mechanical injury, toxic secretions, and disease agents creates several health threats.

  • Pathogen transmission – Ticks are vectors for bacterial, protozoal, and viral agents such as Borrelia burgdorferi (Lyme disease), Anaplasma spp., Ehrlichia spp., Babesia spp., and Cytauxzoon felis. Infection can lead to fever, joint pain, lethargy, hemolytic anemia, and organ failure.
  • Anemia – Continuous blood loss from the feeding site can reduce red‑cell counts, especially in kittens or debilitated adults, resulting in weakness and pale mucous membranes.
  • Allergic dermatitis – Salivary proteins often provoke hypersensitivity reactions, producing pruritus, erythema, and secondary bacterial infections from scratching.
  • Tick‑induced paralysis – Certain tick species secrete neurotoxins that impair neuromuscular transmission, causing progressive weakness, ataxia, and respiratory compromise if untreated.
  • Secondary infections – The puncture wound provides a portal for opportunistic bacteria, leading to localized cellulitis or systemic sepsis.

The severity of each risk depends on tick species, duration of attachment, and the cat’s immune status. Prompt removal within 24 hours reduces the likelihood of pathogen transmission, but even short exposures can introduce toxins that trigger acute reactions. Regular inspection of a cat’s coat, especially after outdoor activity, and the use of veterinarian‑approved acaricides are essential preventive measures.