asian long horn tick · cattle tick anemia · farm animals · Haemaphysalis longicornis · tick prevention for pets · where is the asian longhorned tick found ·

Asian Longhorned Tick: Where It’s Spreading and How to Protect Pets & Livestock

At a glance: The Asian longhorned tick (Haemaphysalis longicornis) is expanding in the U.S. First detected in New Jersey in 2017, it’s now confirmed in 20+ states and still spreading—raising risk for dogs, cats, cattle, deer, wildlife, and people.

Why this tick is different

  • Reproduces without mating (parthenogenesis): a single female can seed a fast-growing population.

  • Heavy infestations, real impact: animals can develop anemia, stress, reduced weight gain, and lower milk production.

  • Broad host range: companion animals, livestock, wildlife—and humans.

Where it’s showing up

Confirmed and/or expanding activity in these regions, with range likely growing as winters warm:

  • Northeast: New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania

  • Mid-Atlantic: Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia

  • Southeast & Midwest: North Carolina, Kentucky, Tennessee, Missouri

Trend: Mild winters, early springs, and adaptable habitats are pushing this tick north and west.

How to protect pets and herds

Stop ticks before they attach. Make checks routine.

  • Daily inspections: Ears, tail/base of tail, underbelly, armpits/groin, between toes/udder area.

  • Habitat management: Keep grass short, clear leaf litter, manage brushy edges and moist, shaded areas.

  • Quarantine newcomers: Isolate and inspect new livestock before mixing herds.

  • Vet-approved controls: Work with your veterinarian on integrated prevention (topicals/orals, premise management, seasonal rotation).

  • Removing loose ticks: After outdoor exposure, swipe with TiCK MiTT to remove loose/unattached ticks from coats, clothing, and gear before they bite.

  • If attached: Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp at skin level and pull straight out; clean site and monitor.

What to watch for

  • On animals: pale gums, lethargy, restlessness/scratching, visible clusters of small brown ticks.

  • On property: damp leaf litter, tall/edge grass, shaded fence lines, livestock lanes, and woodlot margins.

Bottom line

The Asian longhorned tick is here to stay, but infestations aren’t inevitable. Consistent tick checks, habitat management, veterinarian guidance, and tools like TiCK MiTT help protect pets and livestock and prevent populations from taking hold.

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