Tick Bite
Ticks are blood-sucking parasites from the class of arachnids (Arachnida) and belong to the order of mites (Acari). They are obligate ectoparasites that live temporarily on their host animals and feed on their blood. For dogs and cats, ticks are not only a local nuisance but primarily act as vectors for various pathogens that can have serious health consequences.
Various tick species are prevalent in Germany, with the castor bean tick (Ixodes ricinus) being the most common species. Other relevant species include the ornate cow tick (Dermacentor reticulatus), the brown dog tick (Rhipicephalus sanguineus), and increasingly the relict tick (Haemaphysalis concinna). The life cycle of a tick comprises four developmental stages: egg, larva, nymph, and adult tick. At each stage after the egg, the tick requires a blood meal to develop further.
Tick activity is highly dependent on temperature and humidity. While the castor bean tick is mainly active from March to October, with peak activity in spring and autumn, the ornate cow tick can become active at temperatures just above freezing. Climate change is increasingly leading to an expansion of activity periods and a change in the geographical distribution of various tick species.
Causes
Tick infestation in pets usually occurs through exposure to tick-rich habitats. Ticks prefer moist, shady areas with dense vegetation such as forest edges, tall grass, bushes, and undergrowth. They lurk on blades of grass or low bushes and are attracted by carbon dioxide, body heat, and movement.
Various tick species are native and partly widespread in Germany. The Castor Bean Tick (Ixodes ricinus) is the most common species and can transmit various pathogens, especially Borrelia. The Marsh Tick (Dermacentor reticulatus) is a carrier of babesiosis, a dangerous disease primarily affecting dogs. The Brown Dog Tick (Rhipicephalus sanguineus) can be active year-round, especially in warmer regions and heated indoor spaces, and transmits, among others, Ehrlichia.
The transmission of pathogens occurs through the tick’s saliva during the feeding process. Contrary to the widespread assumption that transmission only occurs after 24 hours, some pathogens like certain Borrelia species can be transmitted within a few hours. Other pathogens like Babesia can even enter the host immediately after the bite.
Certain factors increase the risk of tick infestation: frequent stays in forests or meadows, long or dense fur, limited fur care (especially in older or sick animals), and certain activities such as hunting or off-leash roaming in rural areas. The season also plays a crucial role, with the risk generally being higher in warmer months, although due to climate change, tick activity is increasingly observed during winter months as well.
Symptoms
• First symptoms after a tick bite are itching and local redness
• If a Borrelia infection has occurred, non-specific symptoms appear after 1 to 4 weeks
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Swollen joints
• Lameness, sometimes alternating
• Mild fever
• Lymph node swelling
• Kidney inflammation possible
The symptoms after a tick bite can be very diverse and depend significantly on whether pathogens were transmitted. Immediately after a tick bite, the symptoms are usually mild and locally limited:
First symptoms after a tick bite are typically itching and local redness at the bite site. Occasionally, a small swelling may form, which usually subsides within a few days. In some animals, a small scab or crust may develop at the puncture site.
Much more significant are the symptoms caused by transmitted pathogens. If a Borrelia infection has occurred, non-specific complaints often appear after an incubation period of 1 to 4 weeks. These include fatigue, loss of appetite, and mild fever. Swollen joints and alternating lameness, which can often shift from one limb to another, are also characteristic. Lymph node swelling is also frequently observed. In advanced cases, kidney inflammation can occur, which can have particularly serious consequences in dogs.
In cases of anaplasmosis, affected animals often show high fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, and joint pain. Laboratory tests often indicate thrombocytopenia (reduced number of blood platelets), which can lead to an increased tendency to bleed.
Babesiosis, primarily relevant in dogs, manifests itself through high fever, anemia, jaundice, and darkly colored urine due to the destruction of red blood cells. If left untreated, it can quickly lead to a life-threatening condition.
In cats, tick-borne diseases often progress more subtly. They may show loss of appetite, lethargy, and non-specific symptoms such as elevated body temperature. Some infected cats may even remain completely asymptomatic, but can still develop long-term damage.
First Aid
• A daily inspection of the fur, even in cats if they have outdoor access, significantly reduces the risk of Lyme disease occurring (Fig).
• Simply pull out the tick with your hand or tweezers with a small jerk. Try to grasp the tick as close to your pet’s skin as possible.
• Do not twist or squeeze the tick.
• Applying oil to make the tick fall off on its own is also not recommended.
• All unnecessary manipulations can lead to increased saliva from the tick entering your pet, thus increasing the risk of infection.
• If you are unable to remove the tick, take your pet to a veterinarian.
If you were able to remove the tick but notice inflammation at the bite site in the following days, take your pet to a veterinarian.
If you spend a lot of time in the forest with your pet or use your pet for hunting, a protective vaccination against tick-borne diseases might be advisable.
If you visit a veterinarian due to unclear symptoms in your pet and have recently noticed more ticks on your pet, inform your veterinarian about this.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of tick-borne diseases in dogs and cats requires a systematic approach that combines clinical examination, medical history, and specific laboratory tests.
First, a thorough clinical examination of the animal is performed, paying particular attention to signs such as lameness, joint swelling, fever, and enlarged lymph nodes. The medical history plays a crucial role – information about recent tick bites, stays in risk areas, and the timing of symptom onset provide important diagnostic clues. If you visit a veterinarian due to unclear signs of illness in your pet and have recently noticed ticks on your animal more frequently, be sure to inform your veterinarian.
Various laboratory tests are available for the specific detection of tick-borne pathogens:
If Lyme disease is suspected, serological tests are performed to detect antibodies against Borrelia. It should be noted that a positive antibody result may also indicate a past infection or vaccination. Therefore, two-step testing procedures are often used: first an ELISA (Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay) and, if positive, a more specific Western blot test. Tests in blood or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) allow for reliable detection of the pathogen.
For direct pathogen detection, PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) is used, which can detect pathogen DNA in blood, tissue, or joint aspirates. This method is particularly valuable in early stages of infection when antibodies have not yet been formed.
If anaplasmosis or babesiosis is suspected, blood smears are examined microscopically to directly detect the pathogens in blood cells. Additionally, serological tests and PCR examinations can be performed.
A complete blood count and blood chemistry tests provide important information about organ functions and can reveal characteristic changes such as thrombocytopenia in anaplasmosis or anemia in babesiosis.
In cases of neurological symptoms, an examination of the cerebrospinal fluid may be necessary to assess involvement of the nervous system.
The diagnostic challenge often lies in distinguishing between an active infection and a past illness or vaccination reaction. Therefore, the interpretation of laboratory results should always be made in the context of clinical symptoms and medical history.
Further veterinary measures
Lyme disease is caused by a bacterium that can be transmitted by ticks. The symptoms are often nonspecific, such as fever, loss of appetite, reluctance to move, and shifting lameness. The joints and nervous system are primarily affected.
In rare cases, kidney damage and inflammation of the heart muscle can occur. Tests in blood or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) allow for reliable detection of the pathogen. The detection of antibodies could also indicate a past illness, so the clinical picture must also be considered with these tests.
Specific antibiotic therapy leads to the elimination of the pathogen. It must be carried out consistently for 4 weeks. If left untreated, a chronic disease can develop.
Supplements
The treatment of tick-borne diseases depends on the specific infection and the clinical condition of the animal. Generally, the earlier the therapy begins, the better the chances of recovery.
For confirmed Lyme disease, antibiotic therapy is required over an extended period. Doxycycline is the first-choice medication and is usually administered for 4 weeks. This antibiotic is particularly effective against Borrelia and can also cross the blood-brain barrier, which is important for neurological manifestations. Alternatively, amoxicillin or cephalosporins can be used in cases of intolerance or for pregnant animals. The antibiotic treatment must be carried out consistently to avoid relapse.
For anaplasmosis, doxycycline is also used, but usually for a shorter period of 2 to 3 weeks. Symptoms usually improve within a few days after starting therapy.
The treatment of babesiosis requires specific antiprotozoal agents such as imidocarb or diminazene. These are administered as injections and may need to be repeated depending on the severity of the disease. In severe cases with pronounced anemia, a blood transfusion may be necessary.
In addition to specific therapy, symptomatic measures are initiated. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are used for fever and pain. Infusion therapy is indicated for dehydration. Joint inflammation can be treated with rest and anti-inflammatory medications.
In severe cases, especially when organs such as the kidneys or heart are affected, intensive medical care may be required. In case of kidney involvement in Lyme disease, specific nephroprotective therapy with ACE inhibitors and an adapted diet may be necessary.
Regular follow-up examinations should be performed during treatment to monitor therapy success and adjust the treatment if necessary. Laboratory controls are particularly important to monitor organ functions and detect possible side effects of medications early.
Prognosis and aftercare
The prognosis for tick-borne diseases depends significantly on the timing of diagnosis, the type of pathogen, and the animal’s general health condition. With early detection and adequate treatment, the prognosis for most tick-borne diseases is good.
For Lyme disease, the prognosis is generally favorable with timely antibiotic treatment. Clinical symptoms usually improve within 24-48 hours after starting therapy. However, delayed treatment can result in chronic damage to joints, kidneys, or the nervous system. In particular, Lyme nephritis in dogs can progress despite therapy and lead to irreversible kidney damage.
Anaplasmosis typically responds well to therapy, and most animals recover completely. The platelet count usually normalizes within 1-2 weeks after starting treatment.
For babesiosis, the prognosis depends on the severity of the disease at the time of diagnosis. Cases treated early have a good prognosis, while severe cases with multi-organ failure can be life-threatening despite intensive therapy.
Follow-up care after tick-borne diseases includes several aspects:
Regular follow-up examinations are necessary to monitor the success of therapy. These should include clinical examinations and, if needed, laboratory checks. For Lyme disease, follow-up examinations are often recommended after 4 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months.
Long-term monitoring of organ functions is particularly important for animals that have gone through a severe illness. For dogs with Lyme nephritis, regular kidney function tests and urine examinations are indicated.
Preventive measures to avoid future tick bites are a central component of follow-up care. These include regular use of tick repellents, daily checking of the fur, and avoiding tick-rich areas during peak activity times.
For animals that have gone through a tick-borne disease, special caution is required, as complete immunity does not develop and reinfections are possible. Additionally, some pathogens like Borrelia can persist in the body despite adequate therapy and may be reactivated during periods of immunosuppression.
Summary
Ticks pose a significant health threat to dogs and cats, not primarily due to blood loss, but especially as carriers of various pathogens. Several tick species are widespread in Germany, with the castor bean tick (Ixodes ricinus) being the most common and mainly transmitting Borrelia. Other relevant species include the ornate cow tick (Dermacentor reticulatus) as a carrier of babesiosis and the brown dog tick (Rhipicephalus sanguineus), which can transmit Ehrlichia, among others.
The main tick-borne diseases in pets are Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and babesiosis. The symptoms of these diseases are often non-specific and may include fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, and lameness. Lyme disease is characterized by shifting lameness and joint swelling, while babesiosis is marked by anemia and jaundice.
Diagnosis is made through a combination of clinical examination, medical history, and specific laboratory tests such as serological tests, PCR, and blood analysis. Treatment depends on the specific infection, with Lyme disease and anaplasmosis treated with antibiotics (primarily doxycycline) and babesiosis treated with antiprotozoal agents.
The prognosis is generally good with early detection and adequate treatment; however, chronic damage may remain if therapy is delayed. Prevention is particularly important through regular use of tick repellents, daily inspection of the fur, and in certain cases, vaccinations against tick-borne diseases.
Daily inspection of the fur, even for outdoor cats, significantly reduces the risk of Lyme disease. When removing ticks, correct procedure should be followed: The tick should be grasped close to the skin with tick tweezers or a tick removal card and removed with a gentle pull, without squeezing or twisting, to minimize the transmission of pathogens.
Climate change is leading to an expansion of activity periods and geographical distribution of ticks, increasing the risk of tick-borne diseases. Therefore, preventive measures and awareness of these diseases are becoming increasingly important.
Outlook on current research
Research on tick-borne diseases in pets is a dynamic field with numerous current developments. Several focus areas are emerging that could improve the management and prevention of these diseases in the future.
A significant area of research concerns the development of new vaccines against tick-borne pathogens. While vaccines against certain Borrelia strains are already available for dogs, scientists are working on vaccines with a broader spectrum of action that cover multiple Borrelia species. Additionally, vaccines against anaplasmosis and babesiosis, which cannot currently be prevented by vaccination, are being developed. A promising approach is “anti-tick vaccines” that target proteins in tick saliva rather than the pathogens themselves, potentially preventing the transmission of various pathogens simultaneously.
Molecular diagnostics are continuously being refined. Multiplex PCR methods allow for the simultaneous detection of multiple pathogens in a single sample, which is particularly relevant for co-infections. Point-of-care tests are being developed to allow faster diagnosis directly in veterinary practices. New serological tests with higher specificity help to better distinguish active infections from past illnesses or vaccination reactions.
In the field of tick control, new active ingredients and formulations are being researched that offer longer duration of action, better tolerability, and reduced environmental impact. Particular attention is being paid to preparations that are safe for cats, as many conventional tick treatments can be toxic to them. Biological control methods are also being investigated, such as natural enemies of ticks or fungi that infest ticks.
Research into the transmission mechanisms of pathogens by ticks has led to new insights. Contrary to earlier assumptions, some pathogens can be transmitted within a few hours after a tick bite. These findings underscore the importance of quick tick removal and continuous tick prophylaxis.
Epidemiological studies are investigating the spread of tick species and tick-borne pathogens due to climate change. Warmer winters and longer vegetation periods are changing the activity patterns and distribution areas of ticks, leading to new risk areas. Surveillance programs and tick monitoring systems help to capture these changes and adapt prevention strategies.
The One Health perspective is gaining increasing importance, as many tick-borne pathogens can affect both humans and animals. Interdisciplinary research approaches that combine veterinary medicine, human medicine, and ecology promise a more comprehensive understanding and better control strategies for these diseases.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
- Why is a tick bite dangerous for my pet?
Ticks can transmit various pathogens such as Borrelia, Anaplasma, or Babesia. These can cause serious diseases that, if left untreated, can lead to chronic damage or even death. - How do I recognize a tick bite on my pet?
Usually, the tick itself is visible when it’s still feeding on the animal. After falling off, a small puncture site or red dot often remains. Sometimes local swelling or redness may occur. - How do I properly remove a tick from my dog or cat?
Use a special tick tweezer or tick removal card, grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, and pull it out with a gentle tug. Avoid twisting, squeezing, or applying oil, as this increases the risk of infection. - When should I go to the vet after a tick bite?
If you can’t remove the tick completely, if the bite site becomes inflamed, or if your pet shows symptoms such as fever, lameness, or loss of appetite in the weeks following the bite. - Can cats also suffer from tick-borne diseases?
Yes, cats can also be infected through tick bites, with Lyme disease and anaplasmosis being possible. However, cats often show less obvious symptoms than dogs. - How can I protect my pet from ticks?
Use appropriate tick protection products (spot-ons, collars, tablets), thoroughly check your pet’s fur after walks, and avoid tick-rich areas such as tall grass and undergrowth during peak activity times. - Is vaccination against tick-borne diseases useful?
For dogs, there are vaccinations against certain Borrelia strains. The usefulness depends on the individual risk. It may be particularly recommended for hunting dogs or animals in high-risk areas. Discuss the options with your veterinarian. - How long does it take for disease symptoms to appear after a tick bite?
The incubation period varies depending on the pathogen. With Lyme disease, symptoms typically appear after 1-4 weeks, with anaplasmosis after 1-2 weeks, and with babesiosis after 10-21 days. - Can tick-borne diseases be completely cured?
With early diagnosis and adequate treatment, complete recovery is often possible. However, if therapy is delayed, chronic damage may remain, especially with Lyme disease. - Are certain dog or cat breeds more susceptible to tick infestation or tick-borne diseases?
There are no clear breed-dependent predispositions for tick infestation. However, long-haired breeds may harbor more ticks that are harder to detect. Certain dog breeds such as Bernese Mountain Dogs, Golden Retrievers, and Labrador Retrievers seem to be more susceptible to clinical manifestations of Lyme disease.
Literature
- Lyme disease (Lyme borreliosis, Lyme disease). In: Kohn B, Schwarz G, eds. Practical Course in Dog Clinic. 12th, updated edition. Stuttgart: Enke Verlag; 2017
- Littmann, M P, B Gerber, R E Goldstern, M A Labato et al.: ACVIM consensus update on Lyme borreliosis in dogs and cats. J Vet Intern Med. May;32(3):887-903, 2018
- Löwe, G. and Löwe, O. (2021). Emergencies in Dogs and Cats – A Veterinary Guide. Kreuztal: Kynos-Verlag. 208 p.
- Straubinger RK, Pantchev N. Tick-borne infectious diseases in dogs: Current situation in Germany. Veterinary Practice Small Animals. 2020;48(2):132-144.
- Schreiber C, Krücken J, Beck S, Maaz D, Pachnicke S, Krieger K, et al. Pathogens in ticks collected from dogs in Berlin/Brandenburg, Germany. Parasites & Vectors. 2019;12(1):332.
- Littman MP, Gerber B, Goldstein RE, Labato MA, Lappin MR, Moore GE. ACVIM consensus update on Lyme borreliosis in dogs and cats. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine. 2018;32(3):887-903.
- Baneth G, Thamsborg SM, Otranto D, Guillot J, Blaga R, Deplazes P, et al. Major parasitic zoonoses associated with dogs and cats in Europe. Journal of Comparative Pathology. 2016;155(1):S54-S74.
- Otranto D, Dantas-Torres F, Breitschwerdt EB. Managing canine vector-borne diseases of zoonotic concern: part two. Trends in Parasitology. 2021;37(3):247-257.
