Jefferson County Public Health (JCPH) has confirmed the first plague case of the year in a domestic cat located in Evergreen near Cub Creek Park. This is the first confirmed plague case in an animal in Jefferson County since 2023. The cat did not survive the illness.
Plague is a disease caused by a bacteria called Yersinia pestis. People and pets can get it from flea bites or direct contact with infected animals. While human cases of plague are rare, it can be life-threatening without prompt treatment. Plague can be effectively treated with antibiotics if caught early. Symptoms in humans may include sudden high fever, chills, headache, nausea and swollen lymph nodes. In pets, symptoms can include fever, low energy, loss of appetite and swollen lymph nodes.
“It’s not uncommon to see a few animal cases of plague in the warmer months in Colorado,” said Jim Rada, Jefferson County Environmental Health Director. “Like with this case, sometimes our local veterinarians are the first to see plague when our pets get sick. In many ways, they are a first line of defense both in helping keep our pets safe from fleas that could make our pets sick and in treating them if they are exposed to plague.”
Reduce the risk of plague for yourself and your pets:
- Stay away from wild animals.
- Never touch sick or dead animals.
- Keep pets on a leash and away from wildlife.
- Don’t let pets roam freely outside.
- Talk to your vet about flea prevention for pets.
- Watch for signs of illness in pets and seek veterinary care right away if needed.
- If you feel sick, see a healthcare provider.
Anyone who is concerned that they have been exposed to plague or have symptoms should contact their healthcare provider right away. If there is concern that a pet has been exposed or has symptoms, residents should contact their veterinarian as soon as possible.
For more information about plague, visit our website or call Jefferson County Public Health at 303-232-6301.
