May is
World Lyme Disease Month.
Pets are suseptible, too, probably more so than their human companions. We can not see a rash on their skin however, so diagnosis takes much longer. Symptoms include stiffness and inflammation, loss of appetite, lethargy. swollen lymphnodes, labored breathing, fever, dehydration and sudden loss of consciousness. If left untreated, kidney and heart problems can occur.
For feral cats, ticks abound. There is not much a caretaker can do and it is painful to see our babies suffer
with ticks, fleas, worms and other parasites. If you can not sneak medication (like advantage or revolution) on them while they are eating, what else can you do?
Home remedies abound, but please be careful when administering them. Garlic, for example, causes red blood cell damage in cats, so please, do not use this one. You may try to mix 1 part apple cider vinegar to 6 parts water, for their drinking water, but cats are notorious for avoiding water with powerful smells. If they will drink it, it may halp in keping ticks and fleas off your crew. You may also find that diatomaceous eath around and in shelters will help, but be certain to buy "Food Grade".
It is always best to seek the advice of a professional if you have any questions. I hope this helps keep you all safe and happy!
