Tick fever, gut woes surge among pets during monsoon
Out of every 10 cats or dogs in the clinic, five of them were diagnosed with the disease.
This sudden surge across several veterinary clinics in Pune included pets as well as strays brought in by local feeders.
Tick fever, caused by parasites transmitted through tick bites, has been multiplying rapidly in the city's wet and humid conditions. The symptoms include high fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, and gastrointestinal issues such as bloating, vomiting and diarrhoea.
You Can Also Check:
Pune AQI
|
Weather in Pune
|
Bank Holidays in Pune
|
Public Holidays in Pune
"Dogs or cats can suffer from eight types of tick fever.
The major cause for concern is that many cases progress to kidney and liver failure because the infection goes undetected and becomes dormant, before damaging vital organs," said veterinarian Dr Sagar Bhongale.
"Pet parents notice the issue only when a dog starts sneezing blood, but by that time, the platelets are already below 50,000. Canines may then need transfusion and intensive care," said Bhongale.
Several pets even require IV saline to manage dehydration from fever and digestive problems.
Bhongale also warned that Babesia, a parasite affecting red blood cells, can relapse for years once it reaches the bone marrow. "We are seeing Babesia from flea bites causing jaundice and hepatic failure in cats, too. These cases become critical very quickly. Routine blood checks can save lives," he added.
Veterinarians recommend regular tick checks, thorough cleaning of pet areas, and prompt removal of ticks. While ticks and bigger fleas can be spotted, tiny black fleas hide deep in the undercoat, especially in long-haired breeds such as German Shepherd, Golden Retriever, Lhasa Apso, Maine Coons, Persian and Maine Coon cats, among others.
"Incomplete removal of ticks can also worsen the problem, as embedded heads can still transmit infection and cause swelling or abscesses," said Dr Mahesh Brahmankar from Undri.
Brahmankar advises regular professional grooming for high-risk breeds to detect and remove ticks before they lay eggs and multiply.
Besides tick fever, digestive distress also spiked this monsoon, at times leading to chronic liver issues.
"This often happens when pets lick things they should not, such as snake-repellent chemicals along garden boundaries, frogs, or spoiled food from the roadside. One moment of curiosity for a pet can mean three days of hospital care. Prevention here is about supervision as much as it is about diet," said Dr Shreya Mule from Baner.
"The liver, as the body's detox centre, bears the brunt. Certain chemicals and frog secretions are directly toxic to liver cells, while bacterial toxins from spoiled food can trigger inflammation and jaundice. I have seen gut cases turn into hepatic failure within days. If you notice yellow eyes or gums, then it is an emergency; it means that the liver is already struggling," said Mule.
Stay updated with the latest local news from your
city
on
Times of India
(TOI). Check upcoming
bank holidays
,
public holidays
, and current
gold rates
and
silver prices
in your area.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
6 days ago
- Time of India
Tick fever, gut woes surge among pets during monsoon
Pune: The waiting room at a vet clinic off NIBM Road was overflowing with patients suffering from tick fever in the last few weeks. Out of every 10 cats or dogs in the clinic, five of them were diagnosed with the disease. This sudden surge across several veterinary clinics in Pune included pets as well as strays brought in by local feeders. Tick fever, caused by parasites transmitted through tick bites, has been multiplying rapidly in the city's wet and humid conditions. The symptoms include high fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, and gastrointestinal issues such as bloating, vomiting and diarrhoea. You Can Also Check: Pune AQI | Weather in Pune | Bank Holidays in Pune | Public Holidays in Pune "Dogs or cats can suffer from eight types of tick fever. The major cause for concern is that many cases progress to kidney and liver failure because the infection goes undetected and becomes dormant, before damaging vital organs," said veterinarian Dr Sagar Bhongale. "Pet parents notice the issue only when a dog starts sneezing blood, but by that time, the platelets are already below 50,000. Canines may then need transfusion and intensive care," said Bhongale. Several pets even require IV saline to manage dehydration from fever and digestive problems. Bhongale also warned that Babesia, a parasite affecting red blood cells, can relapse for years once it reaches the bone marrow. "We are seeing Babesia from flea bites causing jaundice and hepatic failure in cats, too. These cases become critical very quickly. Routine blood checks can save lives," he added. Veterinarians recommend regular tick checks, thorough cleaning of pet areas, and prompt removal of ticks. While ticks and bigger fleas can be spotted, tiny black fleas hide deep in the undercoat, especially in long-haired breeds such as German Shepherd, Golden Retriever, Lhasa Apso, Maine Coons, Persian and Maine Coon cats, among others. "Incomplete removal of ticks can also worsen the problem, as embedded heads can still transmit infection and cause swelling or abscesses," said Dr Mahesh Brahmankar from Undri. Brahmankar advises regular professional grooming for high-risk breeds to detect and remove ticks before they lay eggs and multiply. Besides tick fever, digestive distress also spiked this monsoon, at times leading to chronic liver issues. "This often happens when pets lick things they should not, such as snake-repellent chemicals along garden boundaries, frogs, or spoiled food from the roadside. One moment of curiosity for a pet can mean three days of hospital care. Prevention here is about supervision as much as it is about diet," said Dr Shreya Mule from Baner. "The liver, as the body's detox centre, bears the brunt. Certain chemicals and frog secretions are directly toxic to liver cells, while bacterial toxins from spoiled food can trigger inflammation and jaundice. I have seen gut cases turn into hepatic failure within days. If you notice yellow eyes or gums, then it is an emergency; it means that the liver is already struggling," said Mule. Stay updated with the latest local news from your city on Times of India (TOI). Check upcoming bank holidays , public holidays , and current gold rates and silver prices in your area.
Time of India
04-08-2025
- Time of India
6 Powerful herbs for Lyme Disease: Natural remedies that support recovery from tick-borne infections
Lyme disease is a tick-borne illness that can be difficult to treat, especially when symptoms linger after antibiotics. Many individuals also face co-infections like Bartonella and Babesia, which complicate recovery. While antibiotics remain essential, certain medicinal herbs are gaining recognition for their ability to support healing. These herbs may help reduce inflammation, enhance immune response, and combat persistent infections. Backed by traditional use and emerging lab studies, they're increasingly used as complementary tools in Lyme protocols. This guide explores six powerful herbs that may aid recovery when used alongside medical care and under professional supervision. Always consult your healthcare provider. 6 Herbs for Lyme Recovery: Natural support for symptoms and immune health Japanese Knotweed (Polygonum cuspidatum) This herb contains high levels of resveratrol, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective effects. In Lyme disease, Japanese knotweed is valued for its ability to support blood flow, especially to the joints and brain, where Lyme bacteria often cause symptoms. Laboratory research suggests it can suppress multiple forms of Borrelia burgdorferi, including its more persistent shapes. Additionally, it may be helpful against Bartonella species. Its antioxidant properties may also protect tissues from damage during long-term infections. However, it can thin the blood, so individuals on anticoagulants or pregnant women should avoid it. Cat's Claw (Uncaria tomentosa) Traditionally used in South American medicine, cat's claw has become a staple in herbal Lyme protocols for its immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory effects. One of its key benefits is the stimulation of CD57 natural killer cells, which are often found in low numbers in people with chronic Lyme. These immune cells help the body target and clear lingering infections. Cat's claw may also aid in reducing symptoms like joint pain and fatigue. It should be taken with food, and those taking acid blockers or with autoimmune conditions should use it with caution. Reishi Mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum) Reishi is a medicinal mushroom with powerful adaptogenic and immune-modulating properties. It doesn't directly kill Lyme bacteria, but it helps regulate the immune system, reduce inflammation, and protect against oxidative stress caused by chronic infections. Reishi can support the recovery of organs affected by Lyme, such as the heart and liver, and is also believed to help improve sleep and emotional resilience. It is generally well tolerated, even with long-term use, and is considered safe for most people. Turmeric (Curcuma longa) Turmeric is widely known for its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, mainly due to its active compound, curcumin . In Lyme treatment, turmeric helps reduce joint pain, stiffness, and neuroinflammation, all of which are common in chronic cases. It also supports liver function and detoxification, which is particularly important for individuals undergoing antibiotic or herbal therapy. Standardised turmeric extracts are often used to ensure a therapeutic dose of curcuminoids. It's safe for most people but may interact with blood thinners. Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea) Rhodiola is an adaptogen, meaning it helps the body adapt to physical and mental stress. Lyme disease often takes a toll on energy levels, sleep, and mental clarity, areas where Rhodiola excels. It supports mitochondrial function, boosts stamina, and enhances cognitive performance. Some evidence also suggests immune-enhancing and mild antimicrobial properties. It is mildly stimulating, so it's best taken in the morning or early afternoon. Those with anxiety or sleep difficulties should monitor their response when starting this herb. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) Ashwagandha is another adaptogen that helps balance cortisol levels and reduce the stress response, which is often overactive in people with Lyme. Unlike Rhodiola, ashwagandha has a more calming effect on the nervous system, promoting restful sleep and emotional balance. It also supports thyroid and immune health and has anti-inflammatory actions that make it useful for joint pain and fatigue. It's generally safe but should be avoided in individuals with iron overload or certain autoimmune conditions unless advised by a doctor. While no herbal treatment should replace antibiotics in the early stages of Lyme disease, these natural remedies may provide important support during recovery, especially when symptoms persist or recur. They can aid the immune system, reduce inflammation, and support detoxification pathways that help the body clear infections more effectively. It's essential to use these remedies under the guidance of a healthcare provider, ideally one experienced in treating tick-borne illnesses. Dosage, timing, and potential interactions with other medications must be considered carefully. With the right combination of conventional and natural therapies, many individuals find meaningful relief and long-term recovery. Also Read: Kidney stone sizes and their health risks: What you need to know, and what size of kidney stone requires surgery?
Time of India
23-07-2025
- Time of India
Dogs can detect Parkinson's disease through smell, study reveals
Dogs' incredible sense of smell has long been used to track fugitives, find human remains, and uncover hidden drugs, but now, researchers say they can also detect Parkinson's disease with remarkable accuracy. In a recent study published in the Journal of Parkinson's Disease, two specially trained dogs identified the condition using skin swabs, with up to 80% success in detecting confirmed Parkinson's cases and up to 98% accuracy in ruling out healthy individuals. Scientists believe this discovery could pave the way for a quick, non-invasive, and cost-effective method for early diagnosis. Dogs trained to sniff out Parkinson's symptoms Parkinson's disease is a progressive brain disorder that affects movement, often causing tremors, stiffness, and coordination problems. One little-known symptom is the overproduction of sebum, an oily substance secreted by the skin. Researchers believe this excess sebum emits a distinct odour that dogs can be trained to recognise. Five dogs initially began training, but only two passed the rigorous selection process: Bumper, a 2-year-old Golden Retriever, and Peanut, a 3-year-old Black Labrador. These dogs trained on over 200 skin swab samples from both Parkinson's patients and healthy individuals, learning to identify the disease through scent alone. Promising accuracy in early diagnosis During double-blind testing, where researchers did not know which samples were from Parkinson's patients, the dogs demonstrated impressive accuracy. Bumper and Peanut correctly identified Parkinson's samples about 80% of the time and avoided false positives with 98% accuracy, even when other health conditions were present. Lead researcher Dr. Nicola Rooney of the University of Bristol said dogs could help develop early detection tools for Parkinson's, a disease that often goes undiagnosed for years. Claire Guest, CEO of Medical Detection Dogs, emphasised that early diagnosis could allow for interventions to slow disease progression and improve quality of life.
