ABSTRACT
Small Babesia-like organism in cat RBCs; transmitted by tick bite. PPP= 1 to 3 weeks. Dx: Trophozoites and gametocytes in RBCs; typically only 1% to 4% infected. Habitat: RBCs. Damage due to schizonts in histiocytes may be apparent on bone-marrow aspirates. Similar Species: None. Range: South eastern and south central United States. Clinical Signs: Cats usually are severely debilitated and typically have anemia, depression, high fever, dehydratation, icterus, splenomegaly, and hepatomegally. Cats often die within 9 to 15 days after infection. More recently a less virulent form of the disease has been recognized that appears to be less fatal and not all cats have clinical signs. Tx: Aggressively treat for DIC: isotonic fluids, heparin (150 U/kg, SQ, q8h), plasma. Imidocarb diproprionate has been found to produce a cure rate of 50%.
