The tick is a parasite that feeds on the blood of its host and when active, it likes to sit on a blade of grass and wait patiently for a suitable mammal to pass by. Unfortunately, our four-legged friends, dogs and cats, are particularly susceptible to tick bites due to their frequent travel off the beaten path.
Ticks are found all over the world and scientists have so far identified more than 900 different species. These many tick species have different geographical distributions, but in Norway there is one species in particular that is important to be aware of – the castor bean tick (Ixodes ricinus). This tick also has several other names such as male tick, skaubjønn or tege.
What makes the wood tick particularly problematic is its ability to carry a number of bacteria and viruses that can be transmitted to both animals and humans. When the tick sucks blood, it can in this way transmit infectious agents to its host animal. One of the most well-known and serious diseases that can be transmitted via tick bites is Lyme borreliosis. This is a disease that can have serious consequences for animals that become infected and symptoms such as rash, fever, fatigue and joint pain can occur.
It is therefore important to be aware of tick bite symptoms and take the necessary precautions to avoid infection. After outdoor activities, it is important to thoroughly inspect your dog or cat's body for ticks, especially in areas that are difficult to see such as the scalp, ears and groin. If a tick is discovered, it should be removed as soon as possible using tweezers or a tick remover to reduce the risk of infection.
If you suspect a tick bite or have symptoms following a tick bite, such as fever, rash, or general malaise, it is important to consult a veterinarian for advice and possible treatment. With the right attention and measures, you can reduce the risk of tick-borne diseases and protect your pets.
What tick-borne diseases can dogs and cats get?
The most common is the Borrelia bacterium which causes Lyme disease (LB). Ticks can also be infected with other infectious agents that can cause the diseases babesiosis ("blood piss"), anaplasmosis ("sjodog") and tick-borne encephalitis (TBE). A number of factors, including increased occurrence of deer, overgrowth of vegetation and climate change, have led to an increase in the number of ticks in recent decades. There are also indications that ticks are establishing themselves in new places in the country. This has led to an increase in the number of cases of both LB and other tick-borne diseases.
Remove the tick quickly
Very few tick bites result in disease, but both dogs and cats bitten by ticks can become infected with a tick-borne disease. The sooner a tick that has attached itself to an animal is removed, the less risk there is of transmission from the tick.
In humans, 1–2 out of 100 tick bites cause disease. Approximately 10% of dogs with tick bites can develop disease. The more tick bites they receive, the greater the risk. We have found that unprotected farm dogs are at the greatest risk of developing tick-borne diseases. A study showed that a dog with approximately 150 tick bites developed disease in 75% of cases.
Preventive tick agent for dogs and cats
Here in Vestfold we unfortunately have a lot of ticks, so we recommend that you use a preventive tick remedy for dogs and cats. Even if you use a tick remedy, it is important that you check your animal for ticks often, as this gives you a good chance of removing the tick before it has had time to attach. Preventive tick remedies for dogs are available over the counter at pharmacies. You need a prescription from a veterinarian for all types of preventive tick remedies for cats.
Preventive vaccine against Lyme disease
We recommend our customers to take The Lyme disease vaccine. Lyme disease is a serious bacterial disease transmitted by tick bites. Borrelia can develop into Lyme disease, which can cause joint inflammation, muscle pain, fever, and decreased appetite. In chronic cases, the skin, heart, kidneys, and nervous system can be affected. Patients who come in too late for treatment can experience organ failure.
Symptoms of tick bites
There are several different symptoms of a tick bite. Joint inflammation, fever, fatigue, and decreased performance are the most common symptoms in dogs.
A tick bite can leave a hard lump and a small wound. Treatment of the wound may be necessary if it has occurred in a sensitive area, such as around the eye. Treatment will shorten the healing process and relieve itching that can cause irritation.
When should you contact a veterinarian?
- If you wish preventive Tick repellent for dogs or cats.
- If you wish to vaccinate your dog against Lyme disease.
- If you suspect the tick carrier disease in a dog or cat.