Vets warn pet owners ‘bobcat fever’ is now affecting domestic cats. Here’s what to know

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (KFSM) - As summer approaches, vets are warning pet owners about “bobcat fever,” a deadly tick-borne disease that can infect domestic cats.

Originally hosted by bobcats, the disease can now affect domestic cats.

“Most folks that we diagnose it in are going to be your domestic cats, because those are the ones we’re bringing to the vet clinic,” Dr. Carley Allen of All Cats Clinic said.

Allen said once infected, the disease can progress quickly.

“Even just a few hours with that tick on them can transmit that to them,” Allen said.

While not every animal shows symptoms, there are signs to look out for.

“They’re just not feeling well, not feeling themselves, they don’t want to eat,” Allen said. “A lot of times they run a really high fever, and then as the disease progresses, we oftentimes will see that they’ll start getting icteric or yellowing of the skin.”

Allen said treatment often includes several medications.

“Appetite stimulants, anti-nausea meds, antiprotozoals and antibacterials to try to get them through that, get their immune system going,” Allen said.

But she said the best defense is prevention, through flea and tick medications that kill ticks quickly.

“Bravecto, Revolution Plus, any of those flea and tick treatments should keep the cat from getting infected,” Allen said.

With about a 60% survival rate, Allen said early detection can make all the difference.

Most importantly, she urged pet owners not to wait if their cat seems sick.

“If you’re noticing any sort of concerning clinical signs of your kitty not feeling well, getting them to a vet ASAP to get them checked out,” Allen said.