Tick fever is becoming increasingly common in India, especially during the monsoon and post-monsoon seasons, when humidity, tall grass, and stray tick carriers peak. Many pets fall sick during these months because ticks thrive in warm, moist weather and easily latch onto dogs during daily walks or outdoor play.

The biggest challenge? Tick fever symptoms often look like “normal sickness” in the early stage. By the time the signs become obvious, the infection may already be severe.

This guide helps you understand what tick fever is, the earliest symptoms, advanced warning signs, and when to seek veterinary attention. Detecting it early can make all the difference.

What Is Tick Fever in Dogs?

Tick fever in dogs is a serious vector-borne disease caused by blood parasites (like Ehrlichia or Babesia) transmitted through the bite of an infected tick. These parasites attack the dog’s blood cells, leading to fever, anemia, and potential organ failure if untreated.

In India, the main organisms responsible include:

• Ehrlichia canis → causes Canine Ehrlichiosis
• Babesia gibsoni / Babesia canis → causes Canine Babesiosis
• Anaplasma species → causes Anaplasmosis

These parasites enter a dog’s bloodstream after a tick bite and begin affecting blood cells, the immune system, and sometimes vital organs.

For general wellness understanding, you may explore dog care basics for Indian pet parents.

What are the first signs of tick fever in dogs? (Early Symptoms)

Tick fever symptoms often appear 1-3 weeks after a tick bite, especially during monsoon and post-monsoon months. Catching these early signs is critical because treatment works best at this stage.

Early symptoms include:

1. Sudden Fever (High Temperature)

A dog’s temperature may rise above 103°F (39.4°C). Their ears, nose, and belly may feel unusually warm.

2. Extreme Lethargy & Tiredness

An otherwise active dog becomes dull, sleeps for long hours, refuses walks, or seems emotionally low.

3. Loss of Appetite (Inappetence)

Skipping meals, eating very little, or refusing favourite treats due to nausea or fever.

4. Swollen Lymph Nodes

You may notice swelling in the lymph nodes (like under the jaw, around the shoulders or behind the knees) as your dog’s immune system fights the infection.

5. Stiffness or Limping

Inflammation in the joints can cause pain, slow walking, limping, or hesitation to jump or climb.

If your dog shows more than one of these signs during monsoon or after tick exposure, contact a veterinarian promptly.

Advanced Symptoms of Tick Fever in Dogs (Require urgent veterinary intervention)

When the disease progresses, symptoms may intensify because the parasites directly affect blood cells and organ function.

6. Pale Gums or Pale Tongue

Low red blood cell count causes the gums to appear light pink, white, or greyish.

7. Unusual Bleeding or Nosebleeds

Reduced platelets (common in Ehrlichiosis) may lead to nosebleeds or minor bleeding.

8. Vomiting or Diarrhea

Digestive issues appear as the liver and stomach get affected.

9. Orange, Brown, or Dark-Coloured Urine

A serious warning sign caused by red blood cell breakdown. Needs immediate medical attention.

10. Breathing Difficulty

Dogs may pant excessively or struggle to breathe due to anemia or fluid buildup.

11. Neurological Changes (Seizures/Disorientation)

Seen in severe or prolonged cases where the infection affects the nervous system.

Any combination of advanced symptoms means immediate examination by a qualified veterinarian is necessary.

How Tick Fever Spreads in Dogs

Tick fever spreads primarily through:

• A bite from an infected tick
• Ticks moving from one infected dog to another can spread infection. (especially in multi-pet households)
• Outdoor environments with dense vegetation (parks, gardens, fields)
• Monsoon and post-monsoon seasons, when ticks reproduce rapidly
• Community/stray dogs in housing societies, who often carry ticks into shared spaces

If you regularly feed or interact with stray dogs, check them for ticks too, they may unintentionally bring ticks into residential areas.

For seasonal health risks, you can explore monsoon pet care tips.

What to Do if You Suspect Tick Fever

1. Visit a Veterinarian Immediately

Tick fever diagnosis may include:

• Blood smear
• CBC (Complete Blood Count)
• PCR test
• Platelet count
• Liver & kidney health checks

2. Follow the prescribed treatment plan

Early-stage tick fever often responds well to antibiotics prescribed by a vet. Babesiosis may require antiprotozoal medication based on the vet’s judgement.

3. Supportive care is important

Hydration, rest, electrolytes, immune support, and liver support supplements may be recommended based on your dog’s condition.

For hydration guidance, refer to how to keep your pet hydrated and healthy.

Prevention: How to Protect Your Dog from Tick Fever (Monsoon-Focused India Edition)

• Use tick-prevention medication (oral or topical).
• Check your dog’s ears, neck, belly, and paws daily, these are common tick spots.
• Bathed and groom regularly.
• Wash bedding often.
• Keep balconies, gardens, and housing society areas clean.
• Avoid tall grass during monsoon and post-monsoon, when tick activity peaks.
• Check stray/community dogs you feed, they may carry ticks.

Supporting your dog’s immunity is equally important. Read more aboutwhy gut health is important for dogs.

Regular grooming, daily tick checks, and consistent nutrition play a major role in keeping dogs protected during monsoon months.

As a brand serving Indian pets for over 15 years, Drools has seen how preventive care and awareness reduce the risk of tick-related health issues throughout the year.

If your dog is recovering from illness or has a reduced appetite, balanced diet forms an essential part of healing. Here’s more on the benefits of Drools wet dog food.

FAQ: People Also Ask

1. What is tick fever in dogs?

   Tick fever is a vector-borne disease caused by parasites like Ehrlichia and Babesia transmitted through infected tick bites.

2. What are the symptoms of tick fever in dogs?

   Early symptoms include fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, swollen lymph nodes, and limping. Severe symptoms include pale gums, bleeding, dark urine, vomiting, and seizures.

3. Can tick fever kill a dog?

   Yes, untreated tick fever can become life-threatening. Early detection significantly improves recovery chances.

4. How long does it take for tick fever symptoms to appear?

   Symptoms typically appear 1-3 weeks after a tick bite but may vary depending on the organism.

5. Is tick fever contagious to humans?

   Dogs cannot directly infect humans, but ticks can bite both. Preventing ticks protects your entire family.

6. How is tick fever diagnosed?

   Veterinarians use blood tests such as CBC, blood smears, PCR tests, and organ function tests.

7. Can vaccinated dogs still get tick fever?

   There is no universal tick fever vaccine in India. Prevention is the best defence.

8. How long does recovery take?

   Mild cases may recover in 2-4 weeks. Severe cases may take longer depending on organ involvement.

Conclusion

Tick fever is serious but manageable when detected early. By recognizing symptoms like fever, lethargy, swollen lymph nodes, and dark urine, especially during India’s monsoon and post-monsoon seasons, you can act before the disease becomes severe.

Daily tick checks, preventive grooming, and regular veterinary care remain the best protection. A healthy routine and mindful care help your dog stay safe, comfortable, and happy all year round.