Which animals can become infected with Borrelia burgdorferi?

• A. Birds & wild animals
• B. Horses & cattle
• C. Dogs & cats
• D. All these

Answer: (D)

Borrelia burgdorferi has a broad host range because the tick that transmits it can bite many kinds of vertebrates. This means birds, wild animals, and domestic species like dogs, cats, horses, and cattle can all become infected. Because of that wide host range, the most accurate choice is that all these groups can harbor the bacterium. Infections may or may not show clear disease signs depending on the species and individual, but exposure and infection are possible across these groups. Prevention centers on controlling ticks and reducing exposure, since the bacteria are transmitted by ticks during feeding.