Cats, like dogs, can be bitten by ticks and become infected with one of the many diseases these parasites carry. One of these diseases is feline ehrlichiosis, also known as tick disease of cats
Although tick-borne disease is rare in cats, there are several cases reported by veterinarians around the world. Therefore, it is important that you know and are aware of the possible symptoms of this disease so that you can act quickly if you suspect that it is happening to your feline. In this article on our site we will explain everything you need to know about ehrlichia in cats, keep reading!
What is feline ehrlichiosis?
Erlichia canis has been extensively studied in dogs and is the main bacterium that causes canine ehrlichiosis. Feline ehrlichiosis, on the other hand, is still little studied and there is not much data. However, there are more and more reports of cases and, therefore, it is important to know about the disease.
Feline ehrlichiosis is caused by intracellular organisms known as Rickettsia. The most common agents in feline ehrlichiosis are: Ehrichia risticii and Ehrichia canis.
In addition to the fact that the disease is bad for your kitten, it is important to remember that ehrlichiosis is a zoonosis, that is, it can be transmit to humans. Domestic cats, like dogs, can be reservoirs of Erlichia sp and eventually transmit it to humans through a vector, such as a tick or other arthropod, which, by biting the infected animal, and then the human, transmits the microorganism.
How is feline ehrlichiosis spread?
Some authors point out that transmission is carried out by ticks, as occurs with dogs. The tick, by biting the cat, transmits Ehrlichia sp., a hemoparasite, that is, a blood parasite. However, a study carried out with cats carrying this hemoparasite only detected a possible exposure to ticks in 30% of cases, which suggests that there may be an unknown vector responsible for the transmission of this disease to cats[1] Some experts believe transmission can also occur by ingesting infected rodents
Symptoms of ehrlichiosis in cats
The signs are usually non-specific, that is, similar to those of various diseases and, therefore, inconclusive. However, the most common symptoms of tick disease in cats are:
- Lack of appetite
- Weightloss
- Fever
- Pale mucous membranes
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy
Diagnosis of ehrlichiosis in cats
When tick disease in cats is suspected, the veterinarian will carry out some laboratory tests, such as a blood test, to check if there is indeed the presence of any of the responsible bacteria of the illness. The most common laboratory abnormalities of ehrlichia in cats are:
- Non-regenerative anemia
- Leukopenia or leukocytosis
- Neutrophilia
- Lymphocytosis
- Monocytosis
- Thrombocytopenia
- Hyperglobulinemia
To make a definitive diagnosis, the vet often uses a test called blood smear, which basically allows you to look at the microorganism in the blood with a microscope. This test is not always conclusive and therefore the vet may also need the PCR test
Also, don't be surprised if your vet performs other tests such as x-rays, which allow him to see if other organs are affected.
Feline ehrlichiosis treatment
The treatment of feline ehrlichiosis depends on each case and symptomatology. Generally, the veterinarian uses antibiotics from the tetracycline group. The duration of treatment is also variable, averaging 10 to 21 days.
In more severe cases, it may be necessary to hospitalize the cat and receive supportive therapy. Additionally, in severely anemic cats, a blood transfusion. may be required.
If the problem is detected early and treatment is started immediately, the prognosis is positive. On the other hand, cats with compromised immune systems have a worse prognosis. The important thing is that you follow the treatment and the instructions of the professional who is following the case to the letter.
How to prevent ehrlichia in cats?
Although it is less common for cats to be infected with diseases transmitted by ticks or other arthropods, it can happen! Therefore, it is essential that you always keep the deworming planupdated by your veterinarian and observe your feline's skin daily. Without a doubt, the best way to prevent this disease is to prevent the cat from being bitten by a tick. This will also keep you protected from other tick-borne diseases.
If you detect any unusual symptoms or behavioral changes in your cat, consult your trusted veterinarian immediately. Nobody knows your feline better than you and if your intuition tells you that something is not right, do not hesitate and visit the clinic. The earlier a problem is diagnosed, the better the prognosis.
