Recently, plague has surfaced again in Conifer, Colorado. The bacteria is present throughout Colorado. Broomfield has had issues with prairie dogs becoming ill and dying from plague (Yersinia pestis) and squirrels in Golden have tested positive as well. So, what is the overall message here? Don't panic, but be aware and keep on top of flea prevention in your pets, especially if they go outside and hunt rodents. I have heard people say that there are not fleas at this altitude (Front Range region). I can tell you from personal experience that I have seen fleas on rodents at slightly over 8,000 ft. I have also had dogs that spend a lot of time outside, share fleas with me while performing an exam. Do they flourish here like they do in other wetter, more humid parts of the country? No, but they do thrive on living, warm blooded animals.
While there is no vaccine available for your pet, good flea control is a good step in preventing the spread of fleas that can harbor plague. If your cat suddenly appears ill, it is wise to seek veterinary care immediately. Fever and swollen lymph nodes are the most common presentation for this illness. While the disease is treatable, early detection is important for survival as well as to prevent the infection from spreading to other pets or people in the household.