Ticks and Kidney Disease

Can ticks cause kidney disease in your pet

Ticks can be killed using various methods and as technology advances, better ways of eliminating the parasites keep surfacing. However, the focus should be on stopping ticks from biting any pet because new research indicates they can cause kidney disease as well. Ticks can transmit multiple infectious agents and are harder to track seeing they can embed themselves in your dog’s skin and remain unnoticed. 

A new study by IDEXX claims there is a connection between dogs exposed to infected ticks and kidney disease. However, the infected ticks are only found in areas where Borrelia Burgdorferi and E. Canis are prevalent. The former is a Lyme disease causing agent and increases the chances of kidney disease in dogs by up to 43%. If a dog is exposed to Ehrlichia in an area known to have E. Canis, the risk of exposure to kidney disease spikes to 300%. 

Ask for screening from your vet

To prevent ticks from transmitting any infections that can have adverse effects on your pet’s organs, ask for tick screening every time you visit your vet. Every dog should have an annual screening because they can be affected and the owner will not notice until symptoms of kidney disease start showing. If you live in a tick-infested area, consider having regular screenings and checkups too ensure your pet is healthy and safe. 

Your vet can use the IDEXX SNAP® 4Dx® Plus Test, which provides a comprehensive report regarding your pet’s health and the effect ticks have on its body if any. The test also shows any mosquito-transmitted infections. 

What if my dog has a tick infection or has developed a condition after tick exposure?

The IDEXX SNAP® 4Dx® Plus Test shows how much ticks have affected your pet through a blue dot. If your pet has been bitten by infected ticks, the veterinarian should carry out routine blood work merged with urinalysis. These two tests will help determine the extent of the infected tick’s damage on your pet as well as any underlying diseases brought about by the same. 

Your vet should also carry out a test to monitor your pet’s kidney function while looking out for early signs of kidney infection.

Conclusion

After the results are out, your vet will determine the best course of action for your pet regarding its treatment. If the results are negative, do not miss the next test assuming you live in a safe area. Remember, ticks can find their way into every homestead especially if the home has a furry friend for a pet. Keep your canine friend safe and healthy by following the tips above.

Sources 

Pet Health Network, Mercola