Table of Contents
Intro to Ticks
Symptoms of Ticks on Dogs
Symptoms of Ticks on Cats
How to Spot These Symptoms
Potential Diseases
What To Do If You Spot Ticks
When You Should Be Concerned And Seek Help
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What Are the Symptoms of Ticks on Pets?
- By Hannah
-
- March 4, 2024
- 4 MIN READ
Ticks are those tiny arachnids that sink their strong jaws into our beloved pets’ skin, and whilst they may be small, their impact can be huge and lead to a range of health issues. Recognising the symptoms of ticks on your pets is crucial for their well-being. This post explores the symptoms of ticks on both dogs and cats, discusses how to spot these symptoms, delves into potential tick-borne diseases, and provides guidance on what to do if you spot ticks on your furry companions. Let's uncover the secrets of identifying tick-related symptoms and keeping your pets fighting fit!
Intro to Ticks
Ticks are external parasites that attach themselves to our poor pets to feed on their blood. These arachnids go through various life stages; egg, larvae, nymph, and adult - each requiring a blood meal to develop further. Ticks can transmit diseases to your pets too, making them more than just a nuisance.
Symptoms of Ticks on Dogs
Ticks on dogs can lead to a range of symptoms, some of which are more obvious than others. Here are common symptoms of tick infestations in dogs:
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Visible Ticks - Probably the most obvious symptom. You might spot adult ticks attached to your dog's skin, especially in areas with less floof!
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Excessive Scratching - If your dog is constantly scratching, biting, or licking a specific area, it could be a sign of tick presence. Ticks' bites can be really itchy and uncomfortable for your pooches.
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Restlessness - Dogs with ticks might show signs of restlessness, pacing, or discomfort due to the irritation caused by the parasites.
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Changes in Behaviour - Infected ticks can cause behavioural changes such as tiredness, irritability, or choosing not to take part in activities they usually love.
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Swollen or Red Skin - Tick bites can lead to local inflammation, causing the skin around the bite site to become red, swollen, or irritated.
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Fever - In some cases, tick-borne diseases can cause fever, which may be accompanied by other symptoms such as loss of appetite.
Symptoms of Ticks on Cats
Ticks on cats can also cause discomfort and health issues. While cats might hide their discomfort better than dogs, there are still observable symptoms:
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Excessive Grooming - Cats are meticulous groomers, and if you notice your cat grooming a specific area excessively, it could be due to the presence of ticks.
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Visible Ticks - As with dogs, you might actually be able to spot ticks attached to your cat's skin, especially in the less hairy areas.
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Restlessness or Agitation - Cats might become restless, agitated, or irritable when dealing with tick bites and discomfort.
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Lethargy - Infestations can lead to tiredness or decreased activity levels in cats, where they might be less inclined to pounce around and engage in their usual routines.
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Fever - Tick-borne diseases can cause fever in cats, which might be accompanied by other signs of illness.
How to Spot These Symptoms
Spotting tick-related symptoms requires some careful observation and knowing your pets' normal behaviours and quirky routines! Here's how you can effectively spot these symptoms:
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Regular Checks
Make a habit of regularly inspecting your pets' skin and coat, especially after their outdoor activities and adventures.
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Run Your Hands Through Their Fur
Run your hands through your pets' fur, feeling for any unusual bumps or lumps that might indicate ticks.
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Observe Behaviour
Pay attention to changes in your pets' behaviour, such as excessive scratching, restlessness, or changes in appetite.
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Inspect Vulnerable Areas
Focus on areas where ticks are likely to attach, such as around the ears, neck, underarms, groin, and between the toes.
Potential Diseases
Ticks can transmit various diseases to pets, some of which can have serious health consequences. These diseases include:
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Lyme Disease - This bacterial infection can cause symptoms such as lameness, joint pain, fever, and lethargy in dogs. It can also affect cats but is less common.
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Anaplasmosis - Anaplasmosis is caused by a bacteria and can lead to symptoms such as fever, joint pain, lethargy, and loss of appetite in both dogs and cats.
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Babesiosis - This disease is caused by protozoa and can cause symptoms like fever, anaemia, and weakness in dogs and cats.
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Ehrlichiosis - Ehrlichiosis is another bacterial infection that can lead to fever, lethargy, and other symptoms in pets.
What To Do If You Spot Ticks
If you spot ticks on your pets, it's important to address the issue promptly and safely. Go to our ‘How to remove ticks from pets and stop them coming back’ post for a comprehensive guide on how to safely and effectively remove ticks from your pets.
When You Should Be Concerned And Seek Help
While some tick bites might not lead to severe issues, it's essential to be aware of when to be concerned and seek the vet’s help and advice:
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Tick Removal Difficulties - If you're having trouble removing a tick or if parts of the tick remain embedded in the skin, get help from your vet.
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Persistent Symptoms - If your pets show persistent symptoms such as fever, lethargy, or changes in behaviour after tick removal, consult your vet too.
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Signs of Disease - If your pets show signs of tick-borne diseases, such as lameness, joint pain, anaemia, or fever, book an appointment with your vet to discuss.
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Multiple Ticks - If your pets have multiple ticks or are infested, we'd recommended consulting your vet for proper removal and treatment.
Spotting the symptoms of ticks on your pets is vital for their health and wellbeing. Regular checks, careful observation of behaviour, and understanding the potential consequences of tick infestations can help you identify issues early and take the right action. If you spot ticks on your pets, follow safe removal practices, clean the area, and monitor their condition closely. Remember that ticks can transmit diseases, so quick intervention and consulting your vet if you suspect tick-related illnesses are essential steps in ensuring your beloved pets' well-being.
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Treatment
How to Remove Ticks from Pets and Stop Them Coming Back
Knowing how to safely and effectively remove ticks from pets is key for their well-being. These parasites can cause a huge host of bother for us humans and our furry companions so it’s super important to have the right knowledge to sort those buggers out! Here, our in-house vet Zoe will guide you through the best treatment for ticks; the process of removing ticks from your pets, including embedded ticks and tick heads stuck in the skin. We’ll also explore ongoing tick treatment and prevention strategies to ensure these troublesome critters don't come back. Let's dive into the wonderful world of tick removal and protection for your beloved pets.
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Identification
The Different Types of Ticks You Need to Be Aware Of
These parasitic creatures can transmit diseases and cause discomfort for our beloved furry companions. But did you know that ticks come in various types and colours? In this post, we'll dive into the world of ticks, exploring the different types you need to be aware of. From white and black ticks to brown ticks, we'll also discuss ticks on humans, the risks of embedded ticks, and effective tick removal and treatment methods. By the end, you'll have a clearer understanding of the tick landscape and how to keep yourself, your pets, and your loved ones safe.
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Prevention
How to Prevent Ticks on Pets
These bloodsucking pests can transmit diseases and cause discomfort for our beloved furry companions. The good news is that with the right knowledge and proactive measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of tick infestations. In this post, we'll explore the world of tick prevention for pets. From understanding ticks and their lifecycle to implementing preventive strategies for both dogs and cats, we'll equip you with the tools to keep your pets safe and tick-free all year-round.