04/02/2026
Flea & Tick Diseases: What Every Pet Owner Should Know
As warmer weather approaches, fleas and ticks become more active—and with them comes the risk of serious diseases for both dogs and cats. Many of these illnesses are vector-borne, meaning they are transmitted through the bite of an infected flea or tick.
Here are a few important diseases we want pet owners to be aware of:
🐶 Ehrlichiosis (Ehrlichia spp.)
Transmitted primarily by ticks, Ehrlichiosis is one of the most common tick-borne diseases in dogs, but it can also affect cats. It can cause fever, lethargy, decreased appetite, swollen lymph nodes, and in chronic cases, bleeding disorders or bone marrow suppression. Early detection and treatment are key to a good outcome. (Banfield Pet Hospital®)
🐱 Cytauxzoonosis (“Bobcat Fever”)
This is a severe and often fatal disease in cats, caused by Cytauxzoon felis and transmitted by ticks (commonly the Lone Star tick). Infected cats may develop sudden high fever, weakness, anemia, and difficulty breathing. This disease progresses rapidly and requires immediate veterinary care. (Ask A Vet)
🦴 Lyme Disease & Anaplasmosis
These tick-borne diseases can affect dogs (and occasionally cats), leading to fever, joint pain, lethargy, and decreased appetite. Some infections may go unnoticed but still impact long-term health. (The Washington Post)
🩸 Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever & Other Tick-Borne Illnesses
Ticks can also transmit diseases that affect blood vessels and organs, causing serious illness in pets if left untreated. (Banfield Pet Hospital®)
⚠️ Why Prevention Matters
Ticks and fleas don’t just cause itching—they can transmit multiple pathogens, and even a single bite can lead to infection. In fact, studies show many fleas and ticks carry organisms capable of causing disease in pets (and sometimes people). (PubMed)
✅ Protect Your Pet:
• Use year-round flea & tick prevention
• Check your pets regularly, especially after outdoor time
• Talk to your veterinary team about the best prevention options for your pet
Keeping your pets protected isn’t just about comfort—it’s about protecting their lives. If you have questions about prevention or notice any concerning symptoms, give us a call—we’re here to help!
