Many owners think of ticks as little more than irritating parasites. In reality, a single tick bite has the potential to cause devastating and sometimes fatal disease in both dogs and cats. At Cottage Vet Clinic, we regularly see pets become critically ill from tick-borne diseases — even pets whose owners believed they only had “a few ticks.”
Some patients deteriorate frighteningly fast.
Tick-borne diseases in dogs and cats are not something to take lightly, especially in South Africa where these diseases are extremely common.
The Hidden Danger of Ticks
Ticks do far more than feed on blood.
As they bite and feed, ticks can transmit dangerous parasites directly into the bloodstream. These parasites attack red blood cells, platelets, the immune system and vital organs.
In some cases, pets can go from appearing normal to collapsing within a matter of days.
One of the most well-known tick-borne diseases in dogs is tick bite fever or biliary, also known as babesiosis. Many people don’t realise that cats can also get tick bite fever! This is especially common in the coastal areas of South Africa and during the winter in the Western Cape.
This disease destroys red blood cells and can rapidly become life-threatening.
Tick-Borne Diseases We Commonly See
Some of the serious tick-borne diseases affecting dogs include:
- Babesiosis (biliary) in dogs and cats
- Ehrlichiosis in dogs
- Feline infectious anaemia in cats
- Severe secondary infections
Cats are less commonly affected by ticks than dogs, but they are certainly not immune.
Tick-borne diseases in cats can cause:
- Severe anaemia
- Fever
- Weakness
- Lethargy
- Collapse
- Immune suppression
Cats often hide illness extremely well, which means disease may already be advanced by the time signs become obvious.
What Symptoms Should Owners Watch For?
The symptoms of tick-borne diseases in dogs and cats can vary, but common warning signs include:
- Sudden lethargy (tiredness or decrease in activity levels)
- Weakness
- Loss of appetite
- Fever
- Pale gums
- Yellow gums or eyes (jaundice)
- Dark urine
- Weight loss
- Bleeding tendencies
- Enlarged lymph nodes
- Collapse
Some dogs with biliary become severely anaemic very quickly and may require hospitalisation, intravenous fluids and even blood transfusions.
Many owners are shocked by how rapidly these diseases progress.
“But My Pet Only Had One Tick…”
Unfortunately, it only takes one infected tick.
Even indoor pets are not completely protected. Ticks can be carried into homes on people, clothing or other animals. This is especially true in the Helderberg area where we are blessed with many forms of wildlife that visit our gardens.
Another common misconception is that tick prevention is only important during summer. Ticks do not disappear during winter. In the Western Cape, we see an increase in tick-borne diseases throughout the colder, wetter months. Year-round tick prevention for dogs and cats is essential.
In many cases, we as pet owners never see the ticks that cause the disease. So don’t discount the risk of tick-borne diseases.
Prevention Is Far Safer Than Treatment
Treating severe tick-borne disease can be stressful, expensive and emotionally devastating.
Prevention is dramatically safer and more effective.
Tick prevention for dogs and cats may include:
- Oral tick preventatives
- Spot-on products
- Tick collars
- Regular tick checks
- Environmental management
- Treating all pets in the household consistently
Not all tick products are equal, and not every product is suitable for every pet. Some dog products can even be dangerous for cats. Many people think dipping their dog or cat once a month is sufficient. But, the dip only works for the time that it is on the animal! It has no long lasting effect. And dip can be dangerous to certain breeds of dogs and cats.
The team at Cottage Vet can help choose the safest and most effective option for your pet’s lifestyle.
Early Treatment Saves Lives
One of the most important things owners should understand is that waiting can be dangerous.
If your pet suddenly becomes lethargic, pale, weak or stops eating — especially if ticks have been seen recently — veterinary attention should be sought urgently.
Tick-borne diseases in dogs and cats can become critical very quickly.
The earlier diagnosis and treatment begin, the better the chances of recovery.
If you would like advice on the best tick prevention for dogs and cats, or if your pet is showing possible signs of tick-borne disease, contact Cottage Vet Clinic.
