Hematologic profile of tick paralysis in a domestic cat

Abstract

Tick paralysis is a toxicosis in animals caused by the infestation of ectoparasites, such as lice or ticks, which secrete neurotoxins that lead to muscle paralysis. This article reports the haematology findings of a 2-year-old male domestic cat diagnosed with tick paralysis at the West Java Provincial Veterinary Hospital. The cat, recently adopted as a stray, presented with hind limb incoordination, Ctenocephalides felis infestation, decreased appetite, constipation, and dehydration. Physical examination revealed the cat was severely underweight (BCS 1/5) with abnormal vital signs, including a rectal temperature of 37°C, respiration rate of 10 bpm, and pulse rate of 260 bpm. Haematological analysis showed granulocytosis, macrocytic anaemia, and thrombocytopenia. The cat was treated with doxycycline, cyproheptadine, vitamin and mineral supplements, iron dextran, NaCl 0.9%, and tick removal. This case underscores the importance of haematological monitoring in managing tick paralysis and ensuring an adequate treatment response.