Babesiosis in Pets – what every owner should know

Tick-Borne Disease

Babesiosis is a serious tick-borne disease that develops rapidly and can lead to dangerous complications. Every pet owner with animals that go for walks should know the basics about this disease in order to effectively prevent infections or react quickly if they occur. In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, treatment options, and preventive methods for babesiosis, including correct techniques for removing ticks—the potential carriers of the disease.

What is Babesiosis?

Babesiosis is a parasitic disease caused by protozoa from the Babesia genus, which are transmitted by ticks. Dogs are particularly at risk for this infection, but the disease can also occur in cats and other mammals. After being bitten by an infected tick, the protozoa enter the animal’s bloodstream, where they attack red blood cells. This process leads to anemia, impaired oxygen transport in the body, and damage to organs such as the kidneys and liver. Dogs that spend a lot of time outdoors are most commonly affected by babesiosis, but the disease can also have a severe course in cats. The risk of infection increases during tick activity periods, which are spring and autumn, although mild winters can cause ticks to be a threat year-round.

What symptoms should worry you?

Babesiosis can manifest in various ways, so it’s important to monitor any changes in your pet’s behavior. The most common symptoms include:

  • lethargy and lack of energy,
  • elevated body temperature (fever),
  • loss of appetite,
  • dark-colored urine, often resembling coffee’s colour,
  • pale mucous membranes (e.g., gums),
  • increased heart rate and breathing difficulty
In the advanced stage of the disease, neurological disorders, internal bleeding, and organ failure may occur, potentially leading to the death of the animal. Therefore, it is crucial to recognize the symptoms quickly and seek immediate consultation with a veterinarian.

DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT

The diagnosis of babesiosis is based on the assessment of clinical symptoms and diagnostic test results, such as blood morphology and microscopic examination of a blood smear. The presence of protozoa in red blood cells confirms the diagnosis.

Treatment involves the use of specialized antiprotozoal medicines that eliminate Babesia from the body. Additionally, the animal’s body requires supportive care, such as intravenous fluid administration, medications to support organ function, or blood transfusion.

The success of the therapy depends on how quick the diagnosis is made and fast  treatment initiation, so a visit to the veterinarian should not be delayed.

HOW TO PREVENT BABESIOSIS?

Babesiosis prevention focuses on protecting animals from tick bites Here are some effective methods to prevent babesiosis in pets:

  1. Tick prevention products – There are many tick-preventative products available on the market, including tablets, drops, sprays, and tick-repelling collars. It’s important to choose products that are appropriate for your pet’s species, age, and weight, and to apply them regularly.
  2. Regular coat checks: After every walk, thoroughly inspect your pet’s body, paying close attention to areas where ticks are more likely to attach, such as behind the ears, on the neck, in the groin area, and under the armpits.
  3. Avoid high-risk areas: When walking your pet, try to avoid areas with tall grass, shrubs, or thicket, as these areas tend to have a high concentration of ticks.

GET READY FOR CAREFREE WALKS!

Ectopet TICK REMOVAL KIT
– Innovative tool for safe tick removal

Even with precautions in place, it’s still possible for a tick to latch onto your pet’s skin. In such situations, it is crucial to remove the tick quickly and safely to minimize the risk of infection, such as babesiosis.

ECTOPET TICK REMOVAL KIT

The Ectopet Tick Removal Kit is an innovative solution designed for maximum effectiveness and comfort in tick removal procerdure. It works by freezing the parasite, and by that minimizing the risk of the tick releasing toxic substances and reducing pathogen transmission during removal process. The freezing agent fully coats the tick, preventing damage to its body and lowering the risk of leaving parasite fragments in the skin. The kit includes a specialized device that allows for a secure and safe tick removal process. Using the appropriate tip, firmly grasp the attached tick as close to the skin’s surface as possible. Then, gently twist while pulling the tick upward in a smooth motion. This tool is safe for both animals and humans, eliminating the risk of mistakes that could lead to complications during tick removal.

KNOWLEDGE AND PREVENTION ARE THE KEY TO YOUR PET'S HEALTH

Babesiosis is a serious threat to your pet’s health, but awareness of the risk and proper prevention can effectively minimize it. Using tick prevention products, checking your pet’s fur regularily and taking prompt action if a tick is found on your pet’s body, are essential steps every responsible pet owner should take. Remember, a tool like the Ectopet TICK REMOVAL KIT can be indispensable in emergency situations, allowing for the effective and safe removal of the parasite. Taking care of your pet’s health is an investment in their long, happy life.