05/27/2026
We want to remind our clients and friends of the importance of using a tick prevention that covers the lone star tick in all outside cats in Middle Tennessee. We have had a large uptick in Bobcat Fever (aka cytaux or cytauxzoonosis) cases over the past few weeks. This is a deadly disease in domestic cats that is spread by the lone star tick.
Once the cyatuzoan protozoa enters the cat’s blood stream, it quickly causes the red blood cells to be destroyed. Most cats will present for being lethargic, anorexic, febrile, and possibly jaundiced. There is a treatment, but unfortunately by the time many cats present to our office it is too late for the medication to work.
If you are concerned your cat might be showing signs of bobcat fever, we recommend bringing them in so we can do blood work and a blood smear to see if they are infected. If we find your cat does have cytaux, we will recommend hospitalization to offer them the highest chance of survival.
It is very important to make sure that your flea and tick prevention is labeled for the lone star tick because not all preventions do. Here at CVH, we carry Nexgard Combo which is labeled for the prevention of the lone star tick for 30 days. Please feel free to call the office if you have any questions or concerns!