A Tickborne Illness That’s Lethal to Cats in TN, KY, and IL is Now in Reported in Indiana

Dear Universe,

I had enough to worry about. Now I have to stress about my cat dying from a tick bite? Can we please just not?

Sincerely,
Me

New Tick-Borne Illness Lethal to Cats Found in Indiana

Last night, I was scrolling Facebook (my first mistake) when I saw that Martin County Animal Shelter in Loogootee, Indiana, posted a warning about a newly detected tick-borne illness that is lethal to cats.

The illness is called Cytauxzoon felis but is more commonly known as Bobcat Fever. It's primarily spread by the lone star tick, the same disease responsible for Alpha-gal syndrome in humans, which causes red meat and dairy allergies.

What is Cytauxzoon felis (Bobcat Fever)?

When an infected lone star tick bites, it can transmit parasites or molecules into the bloodstream. In cats, the deadly microscopic tick-borne parasite Cytauxzoon felis causes Cytauxzoonosis, an often fatal disease.

According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, Cytauxzoon felis was first identified in Missouri in the 1970s. Since then, it has spread to:

Missouri, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma, Texas, Kentucky, Kansas, Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina, Nebraska, Iowa, Virginia, and Illinois.
Now, Indiana can be added to that growing list.

Veterinarians Issue Warning for Indiana Cat Owners

The Facebook page Public Vet shared a warning for cat owners in southern Indiana. Both acute and chronic cases of Cytauxzoon felis have now been confirmed in domestic cats in the state. This marks a troubling expansion of the disease’s known range.

Veterinarians and cat owners across Indiana, especially in the southwestern region, are urged to stay alert.

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Symptoms of Bobcat Fever in Cats

Once bitten by an infected tick, a cat can develop symptoms rapidly, within a few days. The disease can be fatal if not treated quickly.

Watch for these symptoms:

• High fever
• Lethargy or depression
• Loss of appetite
• Rapid or labored breathing
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
• Enlarged lymph nodes or spleen
• How to Protect Your Cat from Tick-Borne Illnesses

How to Keep Your Cat Safe from Bobcat Fever

There is no vaccine for Cytauxzoon felis, but there are important steps you can take:

1. Keep your cat indoors during tick season.
Indoor cats are still at risk, but the risk is much lower than for outdoor cats.

2. Use veterinarian-approved tick prevention.
Don’t grab just anything off the shelf, ask your vet what’s best.

3. Check your cat for ticks regularly.
Especially if they go outside or live near wooded areas. If you find a tick, remove it carefully and consider keeping it in case testing is needed.

Read More: Here's What To Do If You Find a Tick Nest In Your Yard

Early Treatment Can Save Your Cat’s Life

If your cat begins to show symptoms, time is critical. Bobcat Fever can be fatal within 24–72 hours of symptom onset. Immediate veterinary care is essential.

While the mortality rate is high, treatment is available. The sooner it's started, the better the chance your cat has to survive.