Common Tick-Borne Diseases

Ticks are more than a nuisance, they carry organisms that can cause serious illness in dogs and cats. At Glastonbury Animal Hospital in Glastonbury, CT, we diagnose and treat tick-borne diseases every year.

Why Tick-Borne Diseases Are a Concern

Ticks attach to the skin and feed on blood. During feeding, bacteria and parasites can be transmitted into your pet’s bloodstream. Infection may develop days or even weeks after exposure. Early signs are often subtle, so illness may go unnoticed at first. Pets that hike, visit wooded areas, or spend time in tall grass are at higher risk. However, ticks can also live in more residential areas, like backyards.

Lyme Disease

Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi. It is transmitted by the deer tick, which is common in Connecticut. Dogs are more commonly affected than cats. Symptoms may include fever, lethargy, swollen joints, and shifting leg lameness. Some dogs develop kidney damage, known as Lyme nephritis, which can be life-threatening.

Lyme disease is diagnosed through blood testing. Antibiotics are typically prescribed, and most dogs respond well when treatment is started early.

Anaplasmosis

Anaplasmosis is caused by Anaplasma bacteria, which are also spread by deer ticks. The disease affects white blood cells and platelets. Common symptoms include fever, joint pain, loss of appetite, and bruising. In some cases, low platelet counts are detected on blood work. The infection can be mild, but it may become serious if left untreated. Treatment involves antibiotics, and your veterinarian may perform follow-up blood tests to monitor recovery.

Ehrlichiosis

Ehrlichiosis is caused by Ehrlichia bacteria and is transmitted by the brown dog tick. This disease affects white blood cells and can lead to inflammation throughout the body.

Symptoms vary and may include fever, weight loss, enlarged lymph nodes, and bleeding disorders. Chronic cases can result in bone marrow suppression, which reduces the body’s ability to produce blood cells. Diagnosis is made through blood tests. Long-term antibiotic therapy is often required, and early treatment improves outcomes.

How Tick Prevention Protects Your Pet

Tick prevention products are available in oral, topical, and collar forms. These medications kill ticks before they can transmit disease. Your veterinarian will recommend a product based on your pet’s age, weight, and health status. Routine wellness exams also allow for screening tests that detect tick-borne diseases early.

Care at Glastonbury Animal Hospital

At Glastonbury Animal Hospital, we provide comprehensive care for pets in Glastonbury and Marlborough, CT. Our team is committed to prevention, education, and effective treatment. Schedule an appointment today by calling (860) 633-8394 to protect your pet from common tick-borne diseases and keep them healthy year-round.