고양이 SFTS 중증열성혈소판감소증후군 증상·감염 경로, 치료·예방법 총정리

Feline SFTS (Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome): Symptoms, Infection Route, Treatment, and Prevention Summary

Infection/ParasitesDiseasesMeongsiljang Veterinary Advisory Board

Feline SFTS (Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome) is a fatal viral systemic disease transmitted by the Haemaphysalis longicornis tick. We’ve summarized the infection route, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and precautions for pet owners regarding this zoonotic disease.

What is Feline SFTS (Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome)?

A lethargic cat lying down — Symptoms of SFTS (Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome)

Feline SFTS (Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome) is a viral systemic disease transmitted by ticks, characterized by sudden high fever, severe lethargy, gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea, jaundice, and a decrease in platelets and white blood cells, which can be fatal. The disease progresses rapidly, so early detection can be the difference between life and death. It affects both humans and domestic cats, and as a zoonotic disease, it can be transmitted to owners through direct contact with the blood or bodily fluids of infected animals, requiring special caution. If your cat suddenly develops a high fever and lethargy after going outside, take them to a veterinary clinic immediately.

SFTS Infection Route — How is it Transmitted?

Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (SFTS) virus is known to be transmitted through tick bites. The virus can be passed on when an infected tick feeds on blood. Ticks are most active in spring and autumn, so the risk of being bitten is higher during these seasons. Outdoor cats that frequently visit grassy areas or gardens are particularly at high risk of tick exposure. Additionally, there have been reports indicating that the virus can also be transmitted to humans through direct contact with the blood or bodily fluids of infected cats, so pet owners should also take precautions.

SFTS Key Symptoms Checklist — Suspect SFTS if These Symptoms Appear

Sudden high fever: Body temperature spikes sharply above normal and remains elevated.

Severe lethargy: The pet appears unusually weak, listless, and reluctant to move.

Loss of appetite: Even favorite treats are refused, and food intake drops significantly.

Vomiting and diarrhea: Gastrointestinal symptoms often occur alongside other signs.

Jaundice: The gums and whites of the eyes may take on a yellowish tint.

Thrombocytopenia and leukopenia: Blood tests reveal a marked decrease in platelet and white blood cell counts.

Generalized weakness: Energy levels drop dramatically, with rapid progression of debility.

Sick Cats with Increased Eye and Nose Discharge — SFTS Key Symptom Checklist

Emergency Situations Requiring Immediate Veterinary Care

If your pet develops a sudden, persistent high fever, refuses to eat or drink, or becomes severely lethargic and unresponsive, seek immediate care at a 24-hour emergency animal hospital. SFTS progresses rapidly and can be fatal, so it is crucial to get veterinary attention as soon as possible if you suspect the disease.

Diagnosis — How is it Confirmed?

At the veterinary clinic, SFTS is diagnosed through blood tests and viral testing. If blood tests show a significant decrease in platelet and white blood cell counts, SFTS may be suspected. For confirmation, additional tests such as viral detection or serological tests are conducted. As the condition worsens, platelet counts may drop further, so repeated blood tests are used to continuously monitor the progression. The earlier testing is done after symptoms appear, the faster treatment decisions can be made.

Treatment — Supportive Care is Key

There is currently no specific antiviral treatment for SFTS. The cornerstone of management is supportive care aimed at alleviating symptoms and supporting the immune system as it fights the infection.

Fluid therapy: Prevents dehydration and maintains electrolyte balance.

Blood transfusions: May be necessary if platelet counts drop severely.

Fever management: Antipyretic treatments help stabilize body temperature.

Nutritional support: If appetite is poor, nutrition is provided via a feeding tube or intravenously.

A cat receiving intravenous fluid therapy at a veterinary clinic — Conservative treatment for SFTS

Home Care — How to Manage at Home?

Cats suspected or confirmed to have SFTS must be strictly isolated from other pets. Because the virus is present in bodily fluids such as blood, saliva, and urine, always wear gloves when handling waste and wash your hands thoroughly afterward. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth after handling the cat. Keep the isolation area warm and ensure fresh water is always available. Do not administer any medication without explicit instructions from your veterinarian.

Prevention — Tick Control is the Most Effective Method

The most effective way to prevent SFTS is tick prevention.

Regular use of tick preventatives: Consistently use veterinarian-prescribed tick preventatives during the spring and fall seasons.

Post-outing body checks: Carefully inspect behind the ears, the neck, and between the toes after every outing.

Limit access to tall grass: Avoid areas with dense vegetation during walks.

Indoor stay recommended during high-risk periods: It is advisable to reduce outdoor exposure during spring and fall when tick activity is at its peak.

Currently, there is no SFTS vaccine available specifically for cats.

A pet owner applying flea and tick prevention medication to a cat's neck

Owners Take Note — It Can Be Transmitted to Humans

SFTS is a zoonotic disease, meaning it can be transmitted from animals to humans. Direct contact with the blood or bodily fluids of an infected cat can lead to infection in pet owners. If your cat is diagnosed with SFTS, you should have your own health checked at a nearby clinic or hospital. While caring for your cat, always wear a mask and gloves, and seek immediate medical attention if you develop symptoms such as fever or muscle pain.

Reviewed by a veterinarian

Dr. Tony — Punnawat Phongkittirak

Veterinarian

A veterinarian who majored in veterinary medicine at Khon Kaen University, Thailand, and completed the IVSA program at North Carolina State University in the United States. Drawing on clinical experience at animal hospitals, he works in the pet healthcare field and is dedicated to building a digital care environment that connects pet parents with veterinarians.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can indoor-only cats get SFTS?

Indoor-only cats are at very low risk. However, ticks can still enter through balconies or windows, or be brought in on your clothes after walking in grassy areas, so it’s hard to be completely at ease. From spring to autumn, please also check your home environment regularly.

Should I remove a tick from my cat myself?

We don’t recommend removing it yourself. If you pull it off incorrectly, parts of the tick may remain embedded in the skin, increasing the risk of infection. It’s best to have it safely removed at a veterinary clinic.

Can SFTS be cured?

With early detection and intensive treatment, recovery is possible. However, since this condition can be fatal in many cases, the sooner treatment begins, the better the chances of recovery. If you suspect your pet is showing symptoms, seek veterinary care immediately.

Is there a vaccine to prevent SFTS in cats?

There is currently no SFTS vaccine specifically for cats. Regular use of tick preventatives and careful management of outdoor activities are the most reliable preventive measures at this time.

If I cared for a cat with SFTS and had no symptoms, am I okay?

Even if no symptoms appear right away, keep a close watch for fever, muscle pain, and loss of appetite for the time being. If any symptoms do develop, visit a veterinary clinic immediately and inform the staff that you have been caring for a cat with SFTS.

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References

[1] Matsuu A, Momoi Y, et al. Clinical and pathological findings of severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome in cats, Japan. J Vet Med Sci. 2019;81(6):938-943.

[2] Park SW, Han MG, et al. Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus infection in domestic and wild animals in South Korea. Emerg Infect Dis. 2019;25(9):1737-1740.

[3] Greene CE (ed.), Infectious Diseases of the Dog and Cat, 4th Edition, Chapter: Rickettsial and Viral Zoonoses, Elsevier Saunders, 2012.

[4] 질병관리청. 중증열성혈소판감소증후군(SFTS) 관리 지침 제5판. 2023.