A New Tick in Town: What You Need to Know About the Asian Longhorned Tick and Bob Cat Fever

Ticks are more than just a nuisance, they can carry serious, even deadly, diseases for both pets and people. This summer, Indiana pet owners have more reason than ever to stay alert. New reports show the spread of the Asian Longhorned Tick (ALHT) across the state, along with confirmed cases of cytauxzoonosis (commonly known as Bobcat Fever) in outdoor cats. 

Here’s what you need to know to protect your pets. 

Asian Longhorned Ticks Spreading Across Indiana 

The Asian Longhorned Tick (Haemaphysalis longicornis), first detected in the U.S. in 2017, has recently been identified in Dearborn and Hendricks counties—many miles from previous reporting Southern counties—indicating the tick is spreading across the state. 

Why This Tick Matters to You and Your Pet 

• Female ALHTs can reproduce asexually, laying up to 2,000 eggs at a time. Populations can explode quickly. 
• These ticks feed on a wide range of animals, including dogs, cats, cattle, deer, goats, and even humans. 
• ALHTs thrive in tall grass, wooded areas, and pastures. 
• They can carry serious tickborne illnesses such as Rocky Mountain spotted fever, Heartland virus, Powassan virus, and Theileria orientalis, a pathogen that can cause illness and even death in cattle. 

In a recent case, a cow in Dearborn County died from blood loss due to a heavy ALHT infestation. While most diseases linked to ALHTs have not yet been confirmed in Indiana pets, the threat is growing. 

What ALHTs Look Like 

Asian Longhorned ticks are small (about 2.5 mm), reddish-brown, and unmarked. Engorged ticks may appear pea-sized.  

Cytauxzoonosis (Bobcat Fever) on the Rise in Outdoor Cats 

Veterinarians in southern Indiana have reported several cases of domestic cats presenting with lethargy, fever, poor appetite, and, in some cases, sudden death. Initially, avian influenza (H5N1) was suspected, but test results confirmed that the cats were infected with cytauxzoonosis, also known as “Bobcat Fever”. 

What Cytauxzoonosis Is 

Cytauxzoonosis is caused by the parasite Cytauxzoon felis, which is carried by bobcats and transmitted to domestic cats via the bite of a tick. Bobcats are typically asymptomatic but act as carriers. Cats cannot get the disease from other cats or from eating infected ticks. Transmission to cats requires being bitten by a tick. 

Bob Cat Fever Symptoms to Watch For in Your Cat 

• Symptoms usually appear 5 to 14 days after a tick bite (on average, 10 days), and may include: 
• Lethargy and loss of appetite 
• High fever 
• Labored breathing 
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes) 
• Anemia and seizures 
• Enlarged lymph nodes, spleen, or liver 

If you have concerns, it is important to have your cat seen as soon as possible. Without timely treatment, the condition can become life-threatening.  

Testing and Prevention of Bob Cat Fever in Your Cat 

The Indiana Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory (ADDL) has recently confirmed cases in Greene, Martin, and Monroe counties. 

Pet owners can help prevent cytauxzoonosis by using a veterinarian-recommended flea and tick preventative, especially on cats that spend time outdoors. In high-risk regions, some clinics may also stock medications to begin treatment immediately upon diagnosis of Bob Cat Fever. 

Cytauxzoonosis affects only felines; it is not known to infect dogs or other species. 

How You Can Protect Your Pets 

Tick prevention is the best defense against both ALHT and Bobcat Fever. Here’s what you can do: 

• Use flea and tick prevention year-round, even for indoor pets or pets with occasional outdoor access 
• Check your pet daily for ticks, especially after walks, hikes, or time in the yard 
• Avoid tall grasses, brush, and wooded areas 
• Stay informed with tick activity updates via the Indiana Department of Health’s online dashboard 
• If you find a tick on your pet or notice unusual symptoms, don’t wait, contact us at (317) 248-0832 for guidance and care

Airport Animal Emergi-center is Here to Help

Our veterinary teams are closely monitoring tick-related disease activity across Indiana and are prepared to help you protect your pets. If you have questions or concerns about any symptoms, we’re here for you.