Ticks in dogs and cats in 2025 – how to protect your pet from tick-borne diseases?

With the arrival of spring 2025, we are seeing an exceptionally large outbreak of ticks. These dangerous parasites pose a real threat not only to humans, but also to our pets. Dogs and cats are particularly vulnerable because they are often outdoors – in gardens, meadows, during walks or play.

Why are there so many ticks in 2025?

Mild winters, a lack of prolonged frosts, and high air humidity are conducive to the survival and reproduction of ticks. The lack of natural temperature barriers has meant that ticks have been exceptionally active throughout Poland since March – also in cities and housing estates.

Tick life cycle – when is it most dangerous?

Ticks go through four stages of development:

• egg,

• larva,

• nymph,

• adult individual.

Each stage, beyond the egg, requires a host to survive and move on to the next stage. Larvae and nymphs often feed on small mammals and birds, while adults attack larger animals, including dogs and cats. The greatest risk of contact with a tick occurs in spring and fall.

Where do ticks most often live?

Ticks prefer moist, shaded environments. They are most often found:

• in the tall grass,

• on the edge of the forests,

• in bushes and thickets,

• in city parks,

• in gardens and on allotments.

Interestingly, ticks do not freeze in winter – they can hibernate and become active at temperatures above 5°C.

Tick-borne diseases in dogs and cats - symptoms and threats

The presence of a tick can result in serious health problems. In 2025, the following are particularly common:

Babesiosis in dogs - symptoms and treatment

Babesiosis (Babesia canis) – particularly dangerous, can lead to death within a few days.

• Symptoms: high fever, apathy, dark urine (Cola color), rapid heart rate and breathing, loss of appetite, dehydration. Jaundice and pale mucous membranes are also common.

Anaplasmosis in dogs and cats - symptoms

Anaplasmosis – attacks white blood cells, weakening immunity.

• Symptoms in dogs: fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, muscle and joint pain, lameness, enlarged lymph nodes, blood clotting problems.

• Symptoms in cats: apathy, high temperature, decreased appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, joint pain, lameness.

Lyme disease in dogs and cats – is it dangerous?

Lyme disease – although rarer than in humans, still dangerous.

• Symptoms in dogs: lameness (even moving between limbs), stiffness, fever, loss of appetite, weakness, enlarged lymph nodes, sometimes neurological problems.

• Symptoms in cats (rare): lethargy, fever, joint pain, loss of appetite.

Ehrlichiosis in dogs – symptoms

Ehrlichiosis – causes fever, weakness and problems with blood clotting.

• Symptoms: nose bleeds, bruising, lethargy, loss of appetite, weight loss, fever, enlarged spleen or liver.

Cytauxosis in cats – a fatal threat

Cytauxosis – currently mostly in the US, but worth knowing; often fatal.

• Symptoms: severe anemia, fever, weakness, rapid breathing, jaundice. Requires immediate veterinary intervention.

General symptoms of tick-borne diseases in animals:

• apathy, loss of appetite,

• fever,

• vomiting or diarrhea,

• paleness of mucous membranes (e.g. gums),

• problems with movement,

• dark urine.

If you suspect anything, contact your vet immediately. Early detection increases the chances of a full recovery.

How to check your dog or cat's fur for ticks?

After each walk, carefully inspect your pet – ticks often choose warm, moist places:

• behind the ears,

• on the neck and nape,

• in the groin,

• between the fingers,

• under the tail,

• at the muzzle and around the eyes.

Run your hand against the grain, looking for lumps or black dots. If you notice a tick embedded in the skin, remove it with tweezers or a special hook as close to the skin as possible, without twisting. Then disinfect the area and observe for any symptoms of the disease.

Effective methods of protection against ticks – prevention

1. Anti-tick preparations
   Collars, spot-on drops, sprays or oral tablets (for dogs). Make sure the product is safe for the species and weight of the animal.

2. Avoid risky places
   Walk your dog on well-trodden paths, avoiding tall grass and undergrowth. It is a good idea to limit outdoor cats to a secured garden or run.

3. Take care of your surroundings Trim grass and shrubs regularly. Remove fallen leaves and waste. This reduces the tick population around the house.

4. Regular check-ups and baths
   Washing and combing the fur after a walk makes it easier to quickly detect an intruder. Also use natural repellents, e.g. those based on essential oils (lavender, geranium, eucalyptus).

Natural methods of protection against ticks

If you are looking for an alternative to chemical products, it is worth considering natural methods of repelling ticks. Although their effectiveness may be lower than in the case of pharmaceuticals, they can be a good addition to everyday prevention.

• Tea tree oil, lavender oil, eucalyptus oil or geranium oil – used carefully (always diluted and after consultation with a veterinarian), they may repel ticks with their smell.
• Apple cider vinegar – added to a bowl of water (in very small amounts) or as an ingredient in natural sprays, it can also act as a repellent.
• Herbal collars or sprays – there are ready-made, natural products available containing mixtures of oils and herbs safe for animals.
• Rock Rose (Cistus Incanus) – used as a dietary supplement, it can support immunity and affect the smell of the skin, making the pet less attractive to ticks.

Remember, however, that natural methods do not provide 100% protection. They are best used as a supplement to standard prevention – especially during the season of the highest tick activity.

What about the caregiver?

After walking your dog or returning your cat from the garden, it is worth checking not only the animal, but also... yourself!

 The tick may have moved from the animal's fur to clothing, a bag or directly to the skin.

It often attaches around the legs, waist, neck and behind the ears.

Untreated tick-borne diseases in humans – such as Lyme disease or tick-borne encephalitis – can be very dangerous.

After each walk, it is worth taking a shower and examining the body carefully. Clothes should be washed at a high temperature, and fabric items (e.g. a blanket in the car) should be shaken out and exposed to the sun.

What to do if your dog or cat gets a tick?

• Remove ticks quickly and safely.

• Disinfect the injection site.

• Write down the date and place – it may be important for possible diagnosis.

• Observe your pet over the next few days.

• If you notice any disturbing symptoms, consult a vet immediately.

Summary: Ticks – Your Pet's Silent Enemy

In 2025, the threat associated with ticks is exceptionally high. Proper prevention, regular fur checks and quick response to disturbing symptoms are key to protecting the health of your dog or cat.

At Lillabel we believe that caring for your pet is not only about comfort, but also safety.