Deadly Cat Fever on the Rise in Indiana: Are Your Clients at Risk?
In a recent study published by a team of researchers, including Mason V. Reichard and colleagues, a disturbing trend has emerged in Indiana that has cat owners and veterinarians on high alert. Between 2018 and 2022, seven domestic shorthair cats were naturally infected with Cytauxzoon felis, the parasite responsible for the deadly disease known as bobcat fever. This marks the first confirmed cases of both acute and chronic Cytauxzoonosis in the state, indicating a worrying expansion of this tick-borne disease.
Cytauxzoonosis: A Growing Threat The infected cats, ranging in age from 2 to 9 years, hailed from five different counties in southwestern Indiana, underscoring the widespread nature of the threat. Typically transmitted by ticks, including the American dog tick and the lone star tick, Cytauxzoonosis is notoriously difficult to treat and often fatal in domestic cats. The study highlighted the clinical signs that led to the diagnosis: fever, inappetence, lethargy, depression, dehydration, dyspnea, hemolytic crisis, anorexia, and icterus.
Clinical Insights and Survival Of the seven cases reported, six cats presented with acute symptoms of the disease, characterized by severe clinical signs and visible pathological lesions, along with the presence of C. felis in tissue samples or DNA detection. Notably, one cat survived without showing clinical signs, labeled as a subclinical survivor, raising questions about potential immunity and resistance factors.
Implications for Pet Owners and Veterinarians The emergence of Cytauxzoonosis in Indiana represents a significant shift in the geographic spread of this disease, traditionally seen in southern states where bobcats, the natural reservoir for C. felis, are more common. This expansion highlights the need for increased vigilance among pet owners and veterinarians in the region. The study emphasizes the importance of considering C. felis infection in differential diagnoses for cats exhibiting related symptoms.
Prevention and Protection Currently, the best defense against Cytauxzoonosis is the proactive use of approved acaricides on cats, which can help prevent tick infestations and thereby reduce the risk of this deadly disease. Regular tick checks and prompt removal are also critical steps in protecting pets from tick-borne illnesses.
As Cytauxzoonosis continues to pose a lethal threat to cats in Indiana and potentially beyond, understanding and awareness of the disease are crucial. For cat owners, recognizing the early signs and seeking timely veterinary care can make a life-saving difference. This study not only sheds light on the rise of a deadly disease but also serves as a call to action for preventive measures to protect our feline friends. Read the full study here: Cytauxzoonosis in Indiana, USA: a case series of cats infected with Cytauxzoon felis (2018-2022)
