Tick Fever: A Quick Guide

What is Tick Fever?  

It is caused by a bacteria called Babesia. There are two main types of Babesia in HK- Babesia gibsoni and Babesia canis. Transmitted through the bite of infected ticks or bites from infected dogs.  

Symptoms of Tick Fever in Dogs 

- Lethargy Fever 

- Jaundice (yellowing of the whites of the eyes and skin) 

- Decreased appetite 

- Bruising due to low platelets Anemia 

- Red or dark orange urine 

Diagnosing Tick Fever 

- Common signs on blood work - low platelets, low red blood cells 

- Blood test PCR (tick fever panel)  

- Sometimes seen in red blood cells under the microscope 

Tick Fever Treatment in Dogs 

- Many dogs need blood transfusions  

- Babesia canis - imidocarb, 2 injections given 2 weeks apart  

- Babesia gibsoni - atovaquone (liquid gold) and azithromycin given for 10 days 

- Resistent B. gibsoni - doxycycline, metronidazole, & clindamycin for 3 months 

- Retest PCR 5- 6 weeks later to confirm that the infection is cleared 

Prevention against Tick Fever 

- Every dog is at risk but especially those who don’t have a spleen, are otherwise sick, and pitbulls 

- Prevention is the best option 

- Follow your veterinarian’s recommendations regarding good flea and tick control year round