04/09/2026
Bravecto Feline
🚨 URGENT PSA: Deadly Tick-Borne Disease in Oklahoma Cats Running Rampant 🚨
As the weather warms up here in Oklahoma, ticks become more active—and with them comes a serious (often fatal) threat to cats called Cytauxzoonosis (also known as bobcat fever).
In just 2 weeks…we’ve been alerted to 5 cases and sadly 5 lives lost.
🐾 What is Cytauxzoonosis?
Cytauxzoonosis is a life-threatening disease caused by a parasite spread through tick bites—most commonly by the Lone Star tick. Bobcats are the natural carriers, but domestic cats can become infected when bitten by an infected tick.
⚠️ Why it’s so serious:
Rapid onset and progression
High fatality rate if not treated immediately
Many cats die within days of showing symptoms
🚨 Symptoms to watch for:
Lethargy or sudden weakness
Loss of appetite
High fever
Pale or yellow gums (jaundice)
Difficulty breathing
If you notice these signs, seek EMERGENCY veterinary care immediately—early treatment is critical.
🌿 Why Oklahoma cats are at risk:
In areas like Oklahoma, tick populations thrive in warm months, especially in grassy, wooded, and rural environments. Outdoor cats—and even indoor/outdoor cats—are at high risk of exposure.
🛡️ Prevention is everything:
There is no vaccine, so prevention is key:
-Keep cats indoors when possible
-Use YEAR-ROUND flea & tick prevention prescribed by your vet
-Avoid over-the-counter products not labeled for cats (some are toxic and will kill your cat!)
-Check pets regularly for ticks
❤️ Protect your pets:
Even one tick bite can be deadly. Keeping your cat on a consistent, vet-approved and prescribed preventative could save their life.
🐱 Bottom line: If your cat goes outside in Oklahoma—even occasionally—they should be on flea/tick prevention year-round. This disease moves fast, but it is preventable.
Please share to help protect cats in our community.
