Fleas and ticks are external parasites that can cause a variety of health issues for our pets. Fleas can cause general annoyance from itching, while heavier infestations can cause an anemia (low red blood cell count) which may be fatal to young or small pets. Fleas can also carry diseases such as the plague, cat scratch fever, and can transmit tapeworms. Pets can also become allergic to fleas, which can lead to secondary skin issues. Ticks can carry diseases that are much more severe in nature. Lyme disease is a bacterial infection carried by ticks. Ehrlichia is a white blood cell parasite. Anaplasma is a platelet (clotting cell) parasite. Babesia is a red blood cell parasite in dogs, and Hepatozoonosis is a white blood cell parasite in dogs. Cytauxzoonosis is a red blood cell parasite in cats. These many different diseases carried by ticks can cause a variety of signs in our pets. Polyarthritis (pain in multiple joints) which can present as reluctance to move, difficulty getting up and down stairs, on and off furniture, or standing or laying down, swollen lymph nodes, decreased appetite, dehydration, fever, weakness, muscle loss or wasting, and generalized pain or increased sensitivity are a few of the symptoms. More include hypothermia, difficulty breathing, edema (buildup of fluids), weight […]
Providing the best possible veterinary care for your pet.
Heritage Animal Hospital is a full-service veterinarian clinic that provides examinations, diagnostic services, dental care, surgical services, medicine, grooming and boarding services in Maple Grove, Minnesota. We are dedicated to providing the highest level of pet care possible and facilitating an environment where client communication and education are at the forefront of our practice.
