In addition to the discomforts: see serious diseases fleas and ticks transmit to pets (Daniele Franchi / Unsplash)
Ticks and fleas cause visible discomfort for dogs and cats, but what many pet owners don’t know is that these parasites can also transmit microorganisms capable of causing serious diseases, such as ehrlichiosis and mycoplasmosis.
“In these conditions, symptoms such as fever, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and mucous membranes), apathy, anemia, and in more severe cases, even bleeding can arise,” explains veterinarian Marcella Vilhena, marketing manager at Syntec.
She adds that it is essential to seek veterinary guidance as soon as these signs appear.
Ehrlichiosis and mycoplasmosis are serious diseases transmitted by these ectoparasites. “Ehrlichiosis, which is very common in dogs, is transmitted by ticks and can present three stages: acute, chronic, or asymptomatic, and the symptoms tend to be nonspecific, making the diagnosis difficult,” warns veterinarian Marcella Vilhena. On the other hand, mycoplasmosis primarily affects cats and is mainly transmitted by flea bites. “This infection can lead to hemolytic anemia, compromising the animal’s health and increasing its vulnerability to other diseases.”
Both conditions can be diagnosed through laboratory tests. Treatment usually involves the use of antibiotics and supportive care, with recovery varying based on the severity and overall health of the animal. Marcella emphasizes that the key point is prevention with ectoparasiticides, respecting the application period, as well as regular visits to the veterinarian. “In cases of infection, early detection and proper treatment are essential to prevent complications and promote recovery of sick animals,” highlights the specialist.
This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
