As tick populations spread across the United States, so do the diseases they carry. That includes an especially dangerous one just for cats.
Cytauxzoonosis [sīt-ō-zō-ŭn-Ō-sĭs] — known as bobcat fever — is caused by a microorganism transmitted by Lone Star ticks. It spreads from bobcats — who don’t get sick from it — to domestic cats who bear the brunt. And the numbers may be increasing — in part because pet parents don’t know about it.
Cats can get sick up to two weeks after a tick bite. They lose their appetite, become lethargic and develop a fever. As they worsen, they become anemic and jaundiced and struggle to breathe. Over 70% of affected cats die within three days without veterinary care — and that care is complex and intensive.
Prevention is a much better idea, accomplished by keeping cats indoors and using a feline tick preventative year-round.
Wild Eyes: Vision Issues in Exotic Species (Original Airdate: January 2022)
Diagnosis and Treatment of ‘Down Dogs’ (Original Airdate May 17, 2019)
Cutting to the chase when it comes to dog foods
Preparing to care for sick calves
Smoke exposure increases health risk to our pets
Scratches in horses may not mean what you think it does
Covering your pets’ care, even after you’re gone
Equine lymphangitis is nothing to sit on
FDA issues warning about drugs marketed for animals
Why collars are for all pets — indoors or out
Cat scratching and crusties could be miliary dermatitis
Move over dogs: lots of cats like to fetch, too
How do portosystemic shunts harm dogs?
What price canine cuteness?
Heart Problems in Horses (Archive from March 10, 2023)
Why stem cells might help heal tendons
Keeping pet passengers safe in cars
Highlighting our pets’ dental health
Meeting cows’ energy needs during cold snaps
The Scoop on Poop: What is Normal and When is it Diarrhea? (Original Airdate July 2023)
Create your
podcast in
minutes
It is Free
The Relaxback UK Show
Your Sleep Guru Podcast
Good Nurse Bad Nurse
Nothing much happens: bedtime stories to help you sleep
Huberman Lab