Anaplasmosis (rare in cats)

Anaplasmosis is a tick-borne bacterial infection caused by organisms in the Anaplasma genus, most commonly Anaplasma phagocytophilum in cats. While this disease is well-documented in dogs and humans, it occurs only rarely in domestic cats. When infection does occur, the bacteria target specific white blood cells called granulocytes, leading to a condition sometimes referred to as feline granulocytic anaplasmosis. Cats living in or traveling to regions with high tick populations face the greatest risk of exposure to this uncommon but potentially serious infection.

The infection develops when an infected tick, typically from the Ixodes genus (commonly known as deer ticks or black-legged ticks), attaches to a cat and feeds for a sufficient period, usually at least 24 to 48 hours. During this feeding process, the Anaplasma bacteria are transmitted from the tick's salivary glands into the cat's bloodstream. Once inside the body, the bacteria invade neutrophils and other granulocytes, replicating within these immune cells and causing dysfunction in the cat's ability to fight infections and maintain normal blood cell function.

The impact of anaplasmosis on affected cats can range from subclinical infection with no apparent symptoms to significant illness characterized by fever, lethargy, joint pain, and various blood abnormalities. Because cats are considered relatively resistant to clinical disease from Anaplasma species compared to dogs, many infected cats may never show obvious signs of illness. However, when clinical disease does develop, it can affect the cat's overall wellbeing and potentially lead to secondary complications if left untreated.

Anaplasmosis in cats is generally treatable with appropriate antibiotic therapy, and most cats respond well to treatment when the condition is identified early. The relative rarity of this disease in cats means that awareness among cat owners is often limited, yet understanding the potential for tick-borne infections remains important for cats with outdoor access. Early veterinary intervention is essential for the best outcomes, and regular tick prevention measures represent the most effective strategy for protecting cats from this and other tick-transmitted diseases.

The primary cause of anaplasmosis in cats is infection with bacteria belonging to the Anaplasma genus, with Anaplasma phagocytophilum being the most commonly implicated species in feline cases. These obligate intracellular bacteria cannot survive outside of host cells and specifically target granulocytes, a type of white blood cell essential for the immune system's function. The bacteria are transmitted exclusively through the bite of infected ticks, making tick exposure the fundamental requirement for disease development. Without tick transmission, cats cannot contract anaplasmosis through casual contact with infected animals or environmental contamination.

Genetic and hereditary factors do not play a direct role in causing anaplasmosis, as any cat can potentially become infected if bitten by an infected tick. However, individual variations in immune system function may influence whether an exposed cat develops clinical disease or remains asymptomatic. Some cats may possess immune responses that effectively control the infection before significant illness develops, while others may be more susceptible to symptomatic disease. There is no known breed predisposition to anaplasmosis infection, though cats with compromised immune systems from other conditions may experience more severe disease.

Environmental and lifestyle factors significantly influence the risk of anaplasmosis exposure. Cats with outdoor access in regions where Ixodes ticks are prevalent face substantially higher risk than strictly indoor cats. Geographic location plays a crucial role, as anaplasmosis is more common in the northeastern, upper midwestern, and Pacific coastal regions of the United States, as well as parts of Europe where appropriate tick vectors are established. Seasonal factors also matter, with tick activity typically peaking during spring and fall months when environmental conditions favor tick survival and host-seeking behavior.

Several risk factors increase the likelihood of anaplasmosis exposure and infection in cats. Age does not appear to be a significant factor, as cats of any age can become infected. Outdoor lifestyle represents the most important risk factor, particularly for cats that roam in wooded areas, tall grasses, or other tick habitats. Lack of regular tick prevention treatment dramatically increases risk, as does living in multi-pet households where other animals may bring ticks into the home environment. Cats in rural or semi-rural settings with abundant wildlife populations that serve as tick hosts face elevated exposure risk.

The mechanism of disease development begins when an infected tick attaches to a cat and begins feeding. The Anaplasma bacteria reside in the tick's salivary glands and are transmitted into the cat's bloodstream during the feeding process. Transmission typically requires the tick to be attached for at least 24 to 48 hours, providing a window of opportunity for tick removal before infection occurs. Once in the bloodstream, the bacteria seek out and invade neutrophils and occasionally other granulocytes. Inside these cells, the bacteria form characteristic clusters called morulae and begin replicating. As infected cells circulate throughout the body, the bacteria spread to various tissues, triggering inflammatory responses and disrupting normal immune function.

Early warning signs of anaplasmosis in cats can be subtle and easily overlooked, particularly given the cat's natural tendency to hide illness. In the initial stages following infection, cats may display mild lethargy or a slight decrease in their usual activity levels. Some cats become less interested in play or social interaction without showing dramatic changes in behavior. A mild fever may be present but is often not detectable without veterinary examination. Decreased appetite might manifest as the cat eating smaller portions or showing less enthusiasm at mealtimes. These early signs typically develop within one to two weeks after the initial tick bite, though the incubation period can vary.

The most commonly observed symptoms in cats with clinical anaplasmosis include fever, lethargy, and decreased appetite. Affected cats often appear tired and spend more time sleeping or resting in secluded locations. The fever associated with anaplasmosis can be intermittent, making it challenging to detect during casual observation. Weight loss may occur if the infection persists or if appetite suppression is significant. Some cats develop enlarged lymph nodes that may be palpable during physical examination. Joint pain and stiffness, while more commonly reported in dogs with anaplasmosis, can occasionally occur in cats and may manifest as reluctance to jump or climb.

Behavioral changes associated with anaplasmosis reflect the cat's overall feeling of malaise and discomfort. Infected cats often become withdrawn and may hide more frequently than usual. A normally social cat might avoid interaction with family members or other pets. Activity levels typically decrease noticeably, with affected cats showing little interest in toys, hunting behaviors, or exploration. Changes in grooming habits may occur, with cats either grooming less frequently, leading to an unkempt appearance, or occasionally over-grooming certain areas. Appetite changes can range from mild disinterest in food to complete anorexia in severe cases.

Physical signs that owners or veterinarians may observe include pale mucous membranes, which can indicate anemia if significant red blood cell destruction has occurred. Some cats develop petechiae, which are small red spots on the gums or skin resulting from low platelet counts or platelet dysfunction. Swollen joints may be visible or palpable in cats experiencing joint involvement. Respiratory changes such as increased breathing rate or effort might occur in cats with more severe systemic illness. Muscle pain can cause cats to vocalize when handled or resist being picked up. Nasal discharge or ocular discharge has been reported in some cases.

Symptom progression in anaplasmosis can vary considerably between individual cats. Some cats experience a self-limiting infection where symptoms resolve spontaneously as the immune system controls the bacteria. Others may develop chronic or relapsing illness with periods of apparent improvement followed by recurrence of symptoms. Without treatment, the disease can persist for weeks to months, with symptoms waxing and waning. In cats with compromised immune systems, the infection may progress more rapidly and cause more severe disease. Concurrent infections with other tick-borne organisms can complicate the clinical picture and lead to more severe illness.

Emergency symptoms requiring immediate veterinary attention include severe lethargy where the cat is unresponsive or difficult to rouse, complete refusal to eat or drink for more than 24 hours, difficulty breathing or rapid labored respirations, pale or white gums indicating severe anemia, obvious bleeding from the gums, nose, or in the urine or stool, collapse or inability to stand, and high fever accompanied by severe depression. Signs of neurological involvement such as seizures, disorientation, or severe incoordination warrant emergency care. Any cat showing multiple symptoms or rapidly deteriorating condition should receive immediate veterinary evaluation, as severe anaplasmosis can become life-threatening without prompt intervention.

The initial veterinary examination for suspected anaplasmosis begins with a thorough history-taking and physical assessment. The veterinarian will ask about the cat's lifestyle, including outdoor access, recent travel to tick-endemic areas, and any known tick exposure or recent tick removal. Questions about the timeline and progression of symptoms help establish the duration of illness. During the physical examination, the veterinarian will assess vital signs including temperature, heart rate, and respiratory rate. Careful evaluation of mucous membrane color, lymph node size, and joint condition provides important diagnostic clues. The presence of ticks or evidence of recent tick attachment may be noted.

Diagnostic testing for anaplasmosis involves several laboratory approaches. A complete blood count frequently reveals thrombocytopenia, which is a decrease in platelet numbers, and this finding is often the first laboratory clue suggesting tick-borne infection. Anemia may be present in some cases, ranging from mild to severe. Changes in white blood cell counts can include decreased neutrophil numbers or the presence of reactive lymphocytes. Blood smear examination by an experienced technician or pathologist may occasionally reveal morulae, which are clusters of Anaplasma organisms visible within neutrophils, though this finding is uncommon in cats. Serum chemistry panels help assess organ function and identify complications. Polymerase chain reaction testing provides the most sensitive and specific method for detecting Anaplasma DNA in blood samples. Serologic testing can detect antibodies against Anaplasma organisms, though interpretation requires consideration of timing and potential cross-reactivity.

Differential diagnosis for anaplasmosis includes other conditions that produce similar clinical signs. Other tick-borne diseases such as ehrlichiosis, cytauxzoonosis, and hemotropic mycoplasmosis must be considered, particularly in endemic areas. Feline leukemia virus and feline immunodeficiency virus infections can cause similar hematologic abnormalities and should be ruled out. Immune-mediated conditions including immune-mediated hemolytic anemia and immune-mediated thrombocytopenia can produce overlapping clinical and laboratory findings. Infectious causes of fever such as bacterial infections, fungal diseases, and other viral infections enter the differential list. Neoplastic conditions affecting the blood or bone marrow may cause similar symptoms. Accurate diagnosis matters tremendously because treatment approaches differ significantly between these conditions.

Diagnosis confirmation typically relies on a combination of clinical findings, laboratory abnormalities, and specific testing results. A positive PCR test for Anaplasma DNA in the presence of compatible clinical signs provides strong evidence for active infection. Serologic testing showing rising antibody titers between acute and convalescent samples supports the diagnosis but is less commonly performed in clinical practice. In some cases, a presumptive diagnosis based on clinical presentation and response to appropriate antibiotic therapy may be made when definitive testing is not available or practical. The relative rarity of feline anaplasmosis means that veterinarians may need to consult with specialists or reference laboratories for guidance on testing and interpretation. Once diagnosis is confirmed, the veterinarian will discuss disease severity, treatment options, and expected outcomes with the cat's owner.

Emergency and immediate treatment for cats with severe anaplasmosis focuses on stabilization and supportive care while initiating specific antimicrobial therapy. Cats presenting with severe anemia may require blood transfusions to restore adequate oxygen-carrying capacity. Intravenous fluid therapy addresses dehydration and supports cardiovascular function in cats with systemic illness. Anti-nausea medications and appetite stimulants may be administered to encourage eating in anorexic patients. Pain management is provided for cats experiencing joint discomfort or generalized pain. Monitoring vital signs and laboratory parameters guides ongoing intensive care decisions.

Medical management of anaplasmosis centers on antibiotic therapy targeting the causative bacteria. Doxycycline represents the treatment of choice for feline anaplasmosis and is typically administered orally twice daily for a minimum of two to four weeks. This tetracycline-class antibiotic achieves excellent intracellular penetration, which is essential for eliminating organisms that live inside blood cells. The medication should be given with food or followed by water or a small amount of food to prevent esophageal irritation, which can be a concern in cats receiving doxycycline. Clinical improvement is often observed within 24 to 72 hours of starting treatment, though the full course must be completed to prevent relapse. Alternative antibiotics such as other tetracyclines or fluoroquinolones may be considered in cats that cannot tolerate doxycycline.

Surgical intervention is not applicable to anaplasmosis treatment, as this bacterial infection does not produce conditions requiring surgical correction. The disease affects blood cells and systemic tissues rather than creating masses, obstructions, or structural problems amenable to surgery. Treatment remains entirely medical in nature, focused on eliminating the bacterial infection and providing supportive care for affected organ systems. In rare cases where complications such as severe joint effusion develop, joint aspiration might provide diagnostic information and temporary comfort, but this does not address the underlying infection.

Supportive care plays an important role in helping cats recover from anaplasmosis. Nutritional support ensures adequate caloric intake during recovery, with appetite-stimulating medications or assisted feeding provided as needed. Comfortable rest in a quiet, warm environment reduces stress and allows the immune system to focus on fighting infection. Pain management through appropriate analgesics improves comfort and encourages normal activities like eating and grooming. Subcutaneous or intravenous fluids may be continued at home in some cases to maintain hydration. Close monitoring for complications guides adjustments to the supportive care plan throughout recovery.

Alternative and complementary treatments have limited evidence supporting their use in anaplasmosis specifically, though general supportive measures may provide benefit. Probiotics may help maintain gastrointestinal health during antibiotic therapy. Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation might provide anti-inflammatory benefits, though this is not a substitute for appropriate antibiotic treatment. Some practitioners incorporate traditional Chinese veterinary medicine or homeopathic approaches as adjuncts to conventional therapy. Physical therapy or massage may help cats experiencing joint stiffness or muscle discomfort. Any complementary approaches should be discussed with the treating veterinarian to ensure they do not interfere with primary treatment.

Treatment decisions for anaplasmosis consider several factors including disease severity, overall cat health, and practical considerations. Mild cases in otherwise healthy cats may be managed on an outpatient basis with oral antibiotics and home monitoring. More severe cases require hospitalization for intensive support and closer monitoring. The duration of antibiotic therapy may be extended in cats with severe disease or slow clinical response. Cost considerations include diagnostic testing, medications, and potentially hospitalization. Most cats with anaplasmosis respond well to appropriate treatment, with clinical improvement expected within days and complete resolution typically achieved with full antibiotic courses. Owners should understand the importance of completing prescribed treatment even after symptoms resolve.

The recovery timeline for cats with anaplasmosis varies depending on disease severity and promptness of treatment initiation. Most cats show noticeable clinical improvement within 24 to 72 hours of starting appropriate antibiotic therapy. Fever typically resolves within the first few days of treatment, and appetite usually begins returning shortly thereafter. Energy levels gradually improve over the first week, with cats becoming more active and interactive as they feel better. Complete recovery may take two to four weeks, corresponding with the recommended duration of antibiotic therapy. Cats with more severe disease or delayed treatment may require longer recovery periods.

Post-treatment care involves several important elements to ensure complete recovery and prevent relapse. Completion of the full antibiotic course is essential, even if the cat appears fully recovered before all medication is given. Follow-up veterinary visits allow assessment of clinical response and any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan. Repeat laboratory testing may be recommended to confirm resolution of hematologic abnormalities such as thrombocytopenia. Activity should be gradually increased as the cat regains strength, avoiding strenuous activity during the initial recovery period. Monitoring for any recurrence of symptoms in the weeks following treatment completion helps catch potential relapse early.

Prognosis factors for anaplasmosis include the severity of initial disease, speed of diagnosis and treatment initiation, presence of concurrent conditions, and overall immune function. Cats diagnosed and treated early in the disease course typically have excellent prognosis with complete recovery expected. Cats with severe anemia, significant organ involvement, or concurrent infections may face more guarded prognosis. Immunocompromised cats, including those with feline leukemia virus or feline immunodeficiency virus infection, may experience more complicated disease courses. The best-case scenario involves rapid diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and full recovery with no long-term effects. Worst-case scenarios, though uncommon, include treatment failure, chronic infection, or death in severely affected cats.

Long-term outlook for cats that recover from anaplasmosis is generally positive. Most cats achieve complete elimination of the infection with appropriate antibiotic therapy and experience no lasting effects from the disease. Unlike some other tick-borne infections, anaplasmosis does not typically establish persistent carrier states in cats, though this remains an area of ongoing research. The risk of reinfection exists if cats continue to be exposed to infected ticks, emphasizing the importance of ongoing tick prevention. Regular veterinary check-ups help monitor for any delayed complications and maintain overall health. Cats can return to their normal lifestyle and activities once recovery is complete, though implementing consistent tick prevention measures is strongly recommended to prevent future infections.

Primary prevention of anaplasmosis focuses on preventing tick attachment and transmission, as there is no vaccine available for this disease in cats. Year-round tick prevention using veterinary-approved products represents the most effective strategy for protecting cats from anaplasmosis and other tick-borne diseases. Several safe and effective tick preventive products are available for cats, including topical spot-on treatments, oral medications, and tick collars. Product selection should be made in consultation with a veterinarian, as some products safe for dogs are toxic to cats. Regular and consistent application according to product directions ensures continuous protection.

Environmental prevention strategies reduce tick exposure risk for cats with outdoor access. Keeping grass mowed short and removing leaf litter and brush piles eliminates tick habitat near homes. Creating buffer zones of wood chips or gravel between lawns and wooded areas reduces tick migration into yards. Discouraging wildlife that serve as tick hosts, such as deer and rodents, through fencing or habitat modification decreases local tick populations. For cats that venture outdoors, keeping them away from tall grasses, wooded areas, and dense vegetation reduces encounter rates with questing ticks. Indoor-only lifestyle eliminates tick exposure risk almost entirely and represents the most effective environmental prevention.

Dietary approaches do not directly prevent anaplasmosis, though optimal nutrition supports overall immune function. Feeding a complete and balanced diet appropriate for the cat's life stage maintains general health and immune competence. Some pet owners explore natural tick repellent supplements, though scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness is limited. Adequate hydration and good body condition support the cat's ability to respond to infections if exposure occurs. No specific foods or supplements have been proven to prevent tick-borne disease transmission, making physical tick prevention methods essential.

Health maintenance practices contribute to anaplasmosis prevention and early detection. Regular veterinary wellness examinations provide opportunities to assess tick prevention compliance and discuss exposure risks. Daily tick checks for cats with outdoor access allow prompt tick removal before disease transmission occurs. Learning proper tick removal technique ensures complete removal without leaving mouthparts embedded in the skin. Maintaining records of tick exposures and any symptoms helps veterinarians assess risk and make diagnostic decisions. Vaccination against other preventable diseases keeps the immune system focused on novel threats like tick-borne infections.

Early intervention strategies help minimize disease impact when prevention fails. Immediate veterinary consultation following known tick exposure in endemic areas allows discussion of monitoring strategies. Awareness of anaplasmosis symptoms enables cat owners to recognize early signs and seek prompt veterinary care. Keeping cats current on preventive care ensures baseline health parameters are established for comparison if illness develops. In high-risk areas, some veterinarians may recommend baseline tick-borne disease testing or screening for at-risk patients. Working closely with a veterinarian to develop a comprehensive parasite prevention plan tailored to the individual cat's lifestyle and geographic risk provides the best protection against anaplasmosis and other tick-borne diseases.

Daily management for cats recovering from or living with anaplasmosis involves consistent attention to medication administration and monitoring for clinical changes. During active treatment, oral antibiotics must be given as prescribed, typically twice daily with food to minimize gastrointestinal upset. Establishing a routine for medication administration helps ensure compliance and reduces stress for both cat and owner. Monitoring appetite, energy level, and general demeanor provides valuable information about treatment response. Keeping a simple daily log of observations helps track progress and identify any concerning trends. Once treatment is complete, daily management shifts to prevention and monitoring for any recurrence.

Home environment considerations for cats with anaplasmosis center on providing comfort during recovery and reducing future tick exposure risk. A warm, quiet resting area allows recuperating cats to rest undisturbed. Easy access to food, water, and litter boxes reduces effort required for basic activities during recovery. For cats that will continue outdoor access after recovery, inspecting and treating the yard environment for ticks reduces re-exposure risk. Creating tick-free zones immediately around the home provides safer outdoor areas. Indoor cats require no specific environmental modifications but benefit from enrichment activities as they regain energy.

Quality of life for cats recovering from anaplasmosis typically returns to normal within weeks of successful treatment. During recovery, gentle interaction and low-key activities appropriate to the cat's energy level prevent boredom without causing exhaustion. As cats improve, gradually reintroducing favorite toys, climbing opportunities, and play sessions supports physical and mental recovery. Maintaining normal household routines provides comfort and security during recovery. Most cats return to their previous activity levels and enjoy all normal feline activities once fully recovered. Cats that had outdoor access may need adjustment to any new restrictions implemented for tick prevention purposes.

Ongoing monitoring and care following anaplasmosis recovery involves attention to both potential recurrence and general health maintenance. Awareness of anaplasmosis symptoms allows prompt recognition if infection recurs or was incompletely eliminated. Regular veterinary check-ups, typically annually for healthy adult cats, provide professional assessment of overall health. Laboratory testing may be recommended periodically for cats in endemic areas or those with known tick exposure. Consistent tick prevention year-round protects against reinfection with anaplasmosis and other tick-borne diseases. Reporting any symptoms promptly to the veterinarian enables early intervention if problems develop.

Caregiver support resources help cat owners manage the challenges of diagnosis and treatment. Veterinary team members can answer questions about medication administration, expected recovery, and warning signs. Pet insurance, if held before diagnosis, may offset treatment costs for tick-borne diseases. Online support communities connect owners of cats with various health conditions, including tick-borne diseases. Educational resources from veterinary schools, professional organizations, and reputable pet health websites provide additional information. Financial assistance programs may be available through nonprofit organizations for owners facing economic barriers to treatment. Discussing concerns about caregiving burden, treatment costs, or prognosis with the veterinary team helps address practical and emotional challenges associated with managing feline anaplasmosis.

Anaplasmosis does not show significant breed predisposition in cats, as susceptibility to tick-borne infection is influenced more by environmental exposure than genetic factors. All cat breeds face equivalent risk when exposed to infected ticks, making lifestyle rather than genetics the primary determinant of infection risk. Purebred cats are no more or less susceptible than mixed-breed cats to anaplasmosis infection or clinical disease. The rarity of feline anaplasmosis overall means that breed-specific prevalence data is extremely limited, and no authoritative studies have identified particular breeds at elevated risk.

Certain cat populations may face moderately increased exposure risk based on lifestyle correlations rather than direct breed susceptibility. Active, adventurous cats that spend significant time outdoors in tick habitats encounter more opportunities for tick attachment. Cats in rural or semi-rural settings with access to fields, forests, or brushy areas face higher tick encounter rates than urban indoor cats. Working cats such as barn cats or mousers often have extensive outdoor exposure in tick-favorable environments. Mixed-breed cats may be overrepresented in outdoor and working cat populations, potentially creating apparent breed associations that actually reflect lifestyle differences rather than genetic susceptibility.

Screening recommendations for anaplasmosis apply to all cats based on geographic location and lifestyle rather than breed status. Cats living in or traveling to tick-endemic regions should receive consistent tick prevention regardless of breed. Veterinarians may recommend baseline or periodic tick-borne disease testing for cats with significant outdoor exposure in endemic areas. Breeders should focus tick prevention efforts based on their geographic location and whether breeding cats or kittens have outdoor access. New cat owners should discuss tick exposure risk with their veterinarian based on their specific location and planned lifestyle for the cat, with prevention recommendations made without regard to breed status.

Several conditions commonly co-occur or share associations with anaplasmosis in cats. Co-infection with other tick-borne diseases is possible when cats are bitten by ticks carrying multiple pathogens. Ehrlichiosis, caused by related bacteria, may occasionally occur alongside anaplasmosis. Hemotropic mycoplasmosis, another blood cell infection, can complicate the clinical picture. Cytauxzoonosis, a serious protozoal infection transmitted by ticks in certain regions, may share geographic overlap with anaplasmosis risk areas. Cats with tick exposure sufficient to contract anaplasmosis may also harbor heavy tick burdens causing anemia from blood loss or carry tick-borne viruses. Managing co-infections requires identification of all pathogens present and appropriate treatment for each.

Conditions with similar symptoms to anaplasmosis require differentiation during diagnostic workup. Immune-mediated thrombocytopenia produces low platelet counts similar to those seen in anaplasmosis but requires different treatment. Immune-mediated hemolytic anemia causes weakness and pale gums that may mimic anaplasmosis presentation. Feline leukemia virus and feline immunodeficiency virus infections can cause fever, lethargy, and blood abnormalities overlapping with tick-borne disease. Lymphoma and other cancers affecting blood cells may produce similar clinical signs. Systemic infections from various bacterial, viral, or fungal pathogens can cause nonspecific illness resembling anaplasmosis. Accurate diagnosis distinguishes anaplasmosis from these conditions and guides appropriate treatment selection.

Potential complications from anaplasmosis, while uncommon in cats, include secondary effects of severe disease. Profound thrombocytopenia can lead to spontaneous bleeding, causing bruising, nosebleeds, or blood in urine or stool. Severe anemia may result in weakness, collapse, or cardiac stress if red blood cell numbers drop critically low. Joint involvement can cause lasting discomfort or mobility changes if not adequately treated. Secondary bacterial infections may develop in severely immunocompromised cats. Organ damage from severe systemic illness, though rare, can affect long-term health. Prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment minimize complication risk, while delayed or inadequate treatment increases the likelihood of severe outcomes. Prevention through tick control remains the most effective strategy for avoiding anaplasmosis and its potential complications.