«Understanding the Dangers of Tick Bites for Cats»
«Common Types of Ticks Affecting Cats»
Ticks that commonly infest domestic cats belong to several species, each with distinct geographic ranges and disease potentials. Recognizing these species helps owners assess health risks and select appropriate removal techniques.
- Dermacentus variabilis (American dog tick) – prevalent in the eastern United States and parts of Canada. Frequently encountered in grassy or wooded areas. Capable of transmitting Rocky Mountain spotted fever and ehrlichiosis.
- Rhipicephalus sanguineus (Brown dog tick) – thrives in warm climates worldwide and can survive in indoor environments. Often found on indoor cats. Associated with babesiosis and ehrlichiosis.
- Amblyomma americanum (Lone star tick) – concentrated in the southeastern United States, expanding northward. Known for causing tick paralysis and transmitting Ehrlichia chaffeensis.
- Ixodes scapularis (Deer tick) – common in the northeastern United States and upper Midwest. Primary vector for Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and babesiosis.
- Ixodes ricinus (Castor bean tick) – widespread across Europe and parts of North Africa. Transmits Borrelia burgdorferi (Lyme disease) and tick-borne encephalitis virus.
Each tick adheres firmly to the cat’s skin, often in concealed regions such as the neck, ears, or between toes. Prompt identification of the species informs the urgency of removal and the need for veterinary evaluation, as some ticks can cause rapid-onset paralysis or transmit serious pathogens within hours of attachment.
«Potential Health Risks from Tick-Borne Diseases»
Ticks attached to cats can transmit a range of pathogens that affect cardiovascular, hematologic, and neurologic systems. Infection may occur within 24–48 hours of attachment, making prompt removal essential to limit exposure.
Common tick‑borne agents in felines include:
- Babesia spp.: causes hemolytic anemia, fever, lethargy; severe cases may lead to organ failure.
- Anaplasma phagocytophilum: induces neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, joint pain; can progress to systemic inflammatory response.
- Ehrlichia spp.: results in pancytopenia, weight loss, splenomegaly; chronic infection may impair immune function.
- Rickettsia spp.: produces fever, skin lesions, vasculitis; untreated disease can damage renal and hepatic tissue.
- Borrelia burgdorferi (Lyme disease): rare in cats but may cause lameness, kidney inflammation, and neurological signs.
Clinical signs often overlap with other illnesses, complicating early diagnosis. Laboratory testing—PCR, serology, or blood smear—confirms pathogen presence, yet treatment efficacy declines as disease advances. Antimicrobial protocols vary by agent; delayed therapy increases morbidity and may result in irreversible organ damage.
Preventive measures focus on regular tick checks, environmental control, and use of veterinarian‑approved acaricides. Immediate removal with fine‑point tweezers, grasping the tick close to the skin and pulling steadily, reduces the likelihood of pathogen transmission. After extraction, disinfect the bite site and monitor the cat for fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, or unexplained bruising for at least two weeks. Early veterinary assessment upon symptom onset improves prognosis and limits long‑term health consequences.
«Preparation for Tick Removal»
«Essential Tools and Materials»
«Tick Removal Tweezers or Tools»
Tick removal tweezers are the preferred instruments for extracting ticks from cats because they allow precise grip on the parasite’s head without crushing the body. Commercially available options include fine‑point, stainless‑steel forceps, curved‑tip tweezers, and specialized tick‑removal devices that feature a notch to lock the mouthparts. Each design provides a narrow tip that can slide under the tick’s capitulum, ensuring the mouthparts are removed intact.
Key criteria for selecting appropriate tools:
- Tip width no greater than 1 mm to fit between the tick’s head and skin.
- Non‑slipping surface, such as serrated jaws or rubberized coating.
- Length of at least 5 cm to maintain distance from the cat’s fur and reduce risk of accidental bites.
- Material that withstands sterilization (e.g., stainless steel or titanium).
To use the tweezers safely, follow these steps:
- Restrain the cat gently, preferably with a towel wrap, to expose the tick.
- Position the tweezers so the tip contacts the tick’s head as close to the skin as possible.
- Apply steady, even pressure to pull the tick straight out; avoid twisting or jerking motions.
- Place the removed tick in a sealed container for identification or disposal.
- Disinfect the extraction site with a mild antiseptic and clean the tweezers with alcohol or boiling water before storage.
Proper tool choice and technique minimize tissue damage, reduce the chance of infection, and ensure the tick is fully removed.
«Antiseptic Wipes or Solution»
After extracting a tick, the bite site must be disinfected to reduce bacterial invasion and prevent secondary infection. Antiseptic wipes or liquid solutions serve this purpose by delivering a rapid, broad‑spectrum antimicrobial action.
- Choose a product labeled for veterinary use or approved for animal skin; common options include chlorhexidine‑based wipes, povidone‑iodine solution, or alcohol‑free antiseptic sprays.
- Apply the wipe directly to the puncture wound, covering the entire area with a single, firm stroke. If using a liquid, dispense a few drops onto a sterile gauze pad and press gently against the site for 10–15 seconds.
- Allow the antiseptic to air‑dry; do not rinse unless the product instructions specify.
- Observe the area for signs of swelling, redness, or discharge over the next 24‑48 hours. Re‑apply the antiseptic once daily if mild irritation persists, but discontinue if the cat shows discomfort or allergic reaction.
Proper selection and application of an antiseptic reduces the risk of infection and supports faster healing after tick removal.
«Gloves»
When extracting a tick from a cat, gloves serve as a barrier against pathogens that the parasite may carry. Latex, nitrile, or disposable vinyl gloves provide sufficient protection while allowing tactile sensitivity needed to handle a squirming animal.
Select gloves that fit snugly; excess material reduces dexterity and increases the risk of accidental puncture. Prior to use, inspect for tears and discard any compromised pair. Wash hands thoroughly after removal, even when gloves are worn, because surface contamination can persist.
The removal procedure with gloves:
- Position the cat on a stable surface; have an assistant gently hold the animal if needed.
- Grasp the tick with fine‑pointed tweezers, keeping the glove‑covered hand steady.
- Pull upward with steady, even pressure; avoid twisting or crushing the tick’s body.
- Place the detached tick in a sealed container for identification or disposal.
- Remove gloves carefully, turning them inside out to contain any residual fluids, then discard in a biohazard bag.
After removal, cleanse the bite area with a mild antiseptic. Store a spare pair of gloves nearby for any subsequent attempts or for treating multiple cats. Proper glove use minimizes exposure to bacterial or viral agents and maintains a hygienic environment for both pet and owner.
«A Small Container with Rubbing Alcohol»
A compact vessel filled with rubbing alcohol serves three purposes during feline tick extraction: it sterilizes the removal instrument, immobilizes the parasite, and preserves the specimen for later examination.
Before beginning, gather a pair of fine‑point tweezers, a clean cloth, and the alcohol container. Ensure the cat is restrained gently but securely to prevent sudden movements.
- Open the container, pour enough alcohol onto a cotton ball or pad to cover the tweezers’ tips.
- Disinfect the tweezers by wiping them thoroughly with the alcohol‑soaked pad.
- Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, avoiding compression of the body.
- Apply steady, upward pressure to extract the entire organism.
- Place the detached tick directly into the open container; the alcohol will kill it instantly and prevent pathogen transmission.
- Close the lid securely and label the container with the date and cat’s name for veterinary reference.
- Clean the cat’s bite area with a fresh alcohol‑moistened pad or a mild antiseptic solution.
The small alcohol container remains useful for subsequent tick removals and for maintaining a record of parasites encountered.
«Creating a Safe and Calm Environment for Your Cat»
«Restraint Techniques for Uncooperative Cats»
When a cat resists handling, secure restraint becomes the first prerequisite for safe tick extraction.
Create a calm environment, dim lighting, and remove potential distractions before attempting any physical control. Position the cat on a stable surface at a comfortable height to prevent slipping.
Common restraint methods include:
- Towel wrap – lay a soft towel on a flat surface, place the cat on it, then fold the towel snugly around the body, leaving only the head exposed. The wrap limits movement while keeping the cat’s claws inaccessible.
- Burrito technique – use a larger blanket or sheet, gently roll the cat from the tail toward the head, securing the roll with a light knot or clip that does not compress the thorax. This method is useful for larger or more muscular felines.
- Assistant hold – one person holds the cat’s forelimbs and hind legs with gloved hands, applying steady but gentle pressure. The second person performs the tick removal. Coordination between handlers reduces stress for the animal.
- Padded claw protectors – place disposable gloves or claw caps on the cat’s paws before restraint to prevent accidental scratches.
If the cat remains highly agitated, consider short‑acting veterinary‑approved sedation; administer only under professional guidance.
During restraint, keep the cat’s airway unobstructed, monitor breathing, and avoid excessive pressure on the chest or abdomen. Use a soft, non‑slipping mat to protect both the animal and the work surface.
Once the cat is securely immobilized, proceed with tick removal using fine‑point tweezers, grasping the tick close to the skin and pulling upward with steady force. Immediate restraint prevents sudden jerks that could cause the tick’s mouthparts to break off.
Effective restraint minimizes stress, protects the caregiver, and ensures the tick is extracted cleanly, reducing the risk of infection.
«Step-by-Step Tick Removal Procedure»
«Locating the Tick»
Begin the search by positioning the cat in a calm, well‑lit area. Secure the animal gently but firmly to prevent sudden movements that could obscure the parasite.
Inspect the entire body systematically. Start at the head and work toward the tail, paying special attention to typical attachment sites:
- Around the ears, inside the ear canal, and the base of the ears.
- Between the toes and on the pads of the paws.
- Under the collar, around the neck, and along the back.
- In the armpits, groin, and around the tail base.
Use a fine‑toothed flea comb or a gloved fingertip to feel for raised, rounded bumps. A live tick appears as a small, dark, engorged sphere; a detached one may remain attached by its mouthparts, which can be seen as a tiny, protruding point.
If the cat’s fur is dense, part the hair with a comb to expose the skin. Employ a flashlight or a lamp with a cool‑white bulb to enhance contrast between the tick and surrounding tissue. Observe for any movement; ticks may twitch when disturbed.
Document the location before removal, noting the exact spot and the tick’s developmental stage. This information assists in selecting the appropriate extraction tool and facilitates follow‑up monitoring for potential infection.
«Proper Grasping Technique»
When extracting a tick from a feline, securing the parasite correctly prevents the mouthparts from breaking off and remaining embedded.
First, select fine‑point tweezers or a specialized tick‑removal tool with a narrow, sharp tip. The instrument must allow a firm grip as close to the skin as possible.
Steps for the proper grasp:
- Locate the tick. Identify the head and legs; the body may be obscured by fur.
- Position the tweezers. Align the tips perpendicular to the cat’s skin, aiming to encircle the tick’s head rather than its abdomen.
- Apply steady pressure. Squeeze the tweezers until the tick is firmly held, avoiding crushing the body.
- Pull upward with constant force. Do not rock, twist, or jerk; a smooth, vertical motion extracts the whole organism.
- Inspect the bite site. Ensure no fragment remains; if any part is left, repeat the procedure or consult a veterinarian.
- Disinfect the area. Clean with an antiseptic solution and monitor for signs of infection.
Maintain a calm environment to reduce the cat’s stress. Using the described grasping technique minimizes tissue trauma and maximizes the likelihood of complete removal.
«Executing the Removal»
Removing a tick from a cat requires precise handling to avoid leaving mouthparts embedded and to minimize stress for the animal. The procedure should be performed with clean tools and a calm environment.
Steps for safe extraction
- Gather a pair of fine‑pointed tweezers or a specialized tick remover, a pair of disposable gloves, antiseptic solution, and a small container with a lid.
- Put on gloves to prevent direct contact with the parasite and potential pathogens.
- Locate the tick, usually near the skin’s surface, and grasp it as close to the cat’s skin as possible, holding the tick’s head, not the body.
- Apply steady, even pressure and pull upward in a straight line, avoiding twisting or squeezing the abdomen.
- Release the tick into the sealed container, add a few drops of alcohol to kill it, and discard the container safely.
- Inspect the bite site for any remaining parts; if fragments are visible, repeat the removal with the same technique.
After extraction, clean the area with antiseptic and monitor the cat for signs of irritation, swelling, or infection over the next 48 hours. If redness expands, the cat shows lethargy, or a fever develops, seek veterinary assistance promptly. Document the date and location of the bite for future reference.
«Post-Removal Care for the Bite Area»
After a tick is taken from a cat, the bite site requires prompt attention to reduce infection risk and support healing.
First, apply a sterile saline solution or a mild antiseptic (e.g., chlorhexidine diluted to 0.05 %) directly onto the wound. Use a clean gauze pad to dab the area; avoid scrubbing, which can damage fragile skin.
Next, keep the site dry and protected. Place a light, breathable bandage if the cat tends to lick or scratch the spot; ensure the material does not adhere to the wound. Remove the bandage after 12–24 hours, then re‑apply a fresh one only if signs of irritation appear.
Monitor the area for at least two weeks. Record any of the following:
- Redness spreading beyond the immediate perimeter
- Swelling or heat
- Discharge, pus, or foul odor
- Persistent scratching or licking despite bandaging
If any of these signs develop, contact a veterinarian promptly.
Finally, maintain overall health to aid recovery. Provide fresh water, balanced nutrition, and ensure the cat’s vaccination and parasite‑prevention schedule is up‑to‑date. Regular grooming can help detect secondary issues early.
«Aftercare and Monitoring»
«Disposing of the Tick Safely»
After a tick is extracted from a cat, the parasite must be eliminated in a manner that prevents disease transmission and avoids accidental re‑attachment.
- Transfer the tick to a small, airtight container (e.g., a screw‑cap jar or a zip‑lock bag).
- Add a few drops of isopropyl alcohol or place the container in a freezer. Both methods kill the tick within minutes.
- Label the container with the date of removal and store it for 24 hours to ensure complete lethality.
- Dispose of the sealed container in the household trash; do not flush the tick down the toilet.
- Clean the removal tools with disinfectant (70 % isopropyl alcohol or a bleach solution) after each use.
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling the cat again.
These steps guarantee that the removed tick cannot spread pathogens to other animals, humans, or the environment.
«Cleaning and Disinfecting the Bite Site»
After extracting the tick, the wound must be cleared of debris and bodily fluids before any further treatment. Rinse the area with lukewarm water to remove surface contamination, then pat dry with a clean disposable towel.
- Apply a dilute antiseptic solution (e.g., chlorhexidine 0.05 % or povidone‑iodine 10 %) using a sterile gauze pad.
- Gently scrub the skin in a circular motion for 15–20 seconds to eliminate residual pathogens.
- Rinse the antiseptic with a small amount of sterile saline to avoid irritation, then dry the site with a fresh gauze.
Once the bite site is disinfected, a thin layer of veterinary‑approved antibiotic ointment can be spread to reduce bacterial colonization. Cover the wound with a non‑adhesive, breathable dressing if the cat is likely to lick the area. Observe the site daily for swelling, redness, or discharge; any signs of infection require prompt veterinary attention.
«Monitoring Your Cat for Symptoms»
«Signs of Infection»
After removing a tick from a cat, monitor the bite site and the animal for indications that an infection is developing. Early detection prevents complications and guides timely veterinary intervention.
Typical signs include:
- Redness extending beyond the immediate wound margin
- Swelling or a firm, raised area around the bite
- Heat or warmth localized to the site
- Pus, discharge, or foul odor emanating from the wound
- Persistent scratching or licking of the affected area
- Fever, lethargy, or loss of appetite
- Enlarged lymph nodes, especially near the head, neck, or limbs
If any of these symptoms appear, contact a veterinarian promptly to assess the need for antibiotics or further treatment.
«Symptoms of Tick-Borne Illnesses»
After a tick is taken from a cat, monitor the animal for any signs that could indicate a pathogen transmitted during feeding. Early detection of illness improves treatment outcomes and reduces the risk of severe complications.
Common tick‑borne infections in felines include:
- Anaplasmosis – lethargy, fever, loss of appetite, and mild anemia.
- Ehrlichiosis – intermittent fever, pale gums, enlarged lymph nodes, and occasional bleeding from the nose or gums.
- Babesiosis – fever, weakness, jaundice, dark urine, and rapid heart rate.
- Cytauxzoonosis – high fever, severe anemia, icterus, respiratory distress, and sudden death in advanced cases.
- Bartonellosis – fever, swollen lymph nodes, skin lesions, and occasional eye inflammation.
- Lyme disease (rare in cats) – lameness, joint swelling, fever, and kidney dysfunction.
General indicators that a tick‑borne disease may be developing include:
- Persistent or recurring fever above 103 °F (39.4 °C)
- Noticeable weight loss or reduced body condition
- Dehydration or reduced skin elasticity
- Unexplained bruising or bleeding
- Changes in behavior such as increased aggression or withdrawal
- Respiratory difficulty or coughing
If any of these symptoms appear within two weeks of tick removal, seek veterinary evaluation promptly. Blood tests, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays, or serologic panels can confirm the specific pathogen and guide appropriate therapy.
«When to Seek Veterinary Assistance»
If a tick is firmly embedded, attempts to pull it may cause the mouthparts to break off in the skin. Visible fragments or persistent bleeding after removal warrant immediate veterinary care.
Signs that the cat is experiencing a systemic reaction include sudden lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, or difficulty breathing. Any of these symptoms, even if they appear hours after the tick is taken off, require prompt professional assessment.
A fever above the normal feline range (approximately 102.5 °F or 39.2 °C) suggests infection or inflammation and should be evaluated by a veterinarian.
If the cat shows signs of an allergic response—such as swelling at the bite site, hives, or facial edema—seek emergency treatment to prevent anaphylaxis.
When the tick is known to carry disease agents (e.g., Babesia, Anaplasma, Ehrlichia) in the region, a veterinarian may recommend diagnostic testing and prophylactic medication, regardless of the cat’s current condition.
In cases where the owner is uncertain about the completeness of the removal, or if the cat is a kitten, elderly, or has a compromised immune system, professional examination is advisable.
Key indicators for veterinary assistance:
- Incomplete removal or retained mouthparts
- Persistent bleeding or swelling at the bite site
- Fever, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, or anorexia
- Respiratory distress or facial swelling
- Known exposure to tick‑borne pathogens in the area
- Uncertainty about removal success or cat’s health status
Prompt veterinary intervention reduces the risk of infection, secondary complications, and disease transmission, ensuring the cat’s recovery and overall well‑being.
«Prevention Strategies»
«Tick Prevention Products»
«Topical Treatments»
After extracting the tick, apply a suitable topical agent to the bite site and surrounding fur. The purpose is to kill any remaining tick saliva, reduce the risk of infection, and soothe irritation.
Common categories of topical products include:
- Spot‑on formulations containing fipronil, imidacloprid, or selamectin; these spread across the skin and provide ongoing protection against ectoparasites.
- Creams or gels with benzoyl peroxide or chlorhexidine; they act as antiseptics and help prevent secondary bacterial infection.
- Sprays infused with permethrin or pyrethrins; they deliver a rapid knock‑down effect and are useful for immediate decontamination.
Selection criteria:
- Verify that the product is labeled for feline use; many canine‑only formulas can be toxic to cats.
- Choose an active ingredient with proven efficacy against tick‑borne pathogens.
- Prefer single‑dose applications that do not require frequent re‑treatment, reducing handling stress for the animal.
Application steps:
- Clean the area with a mild, unscented antiseptic solution and pat dry.
- Follow the manufacturer’s dosage instructions precisely; apply the measured amount to the skin, not merely the fur.
- Allow the product to dry before the cat resumes normal activity; monitor for signs of irritation or adverse reaction for at least 24 hours.
If redness, swelling, or behavioral changes appear, contact a veterinarian promptly. Proper topical care complements mechanical tick removal and supports the cat’s recovery.
«Oral Medications»
Oral antiparasitic agents are essential for preventing re‑infestation after a tick is extracted from a cat. They eliminate immature stages that may have been transmitted during feeding and reduce the risk of disease transmission.
Commonly prescribed products include:
- Ivermectin, administered at 0.2 mg/kg once daily for three days; effective against many tick‑borne pathogens but contraindicated in breeds with MDR1 gene mutations.
- Milbemycin oxime, given at 0.5 mg/kg every 30 days; provides broad‑spectrum coverage for ticks, heartworms, and intestinal nematodes.
- Afoxolaner, 2.5 mg/kg orally every 30 days; a rapid‑acting isoxazoline that kills attached ticks within hours.
- Fluralaner, 25 mg/kg every 12 weeks; long‑acting isoxazoline suitable for cats with limited handling.
- Sarolaner, 2 mg/kg monthly; another isoxazoline offering swift tick elimination.
Dosage must be calculated based on the cat’s exact weight. Tablets should be given with food to enhance absorption. Observe the cat for adverse reactions such as vomiting, diarrhea, or neurological signs; report any symptoms to a veterinarian immediately.
Veterinary confirmation of the tick’s species and the presence of pathogens guides the choice of medication. In cases of confirmed disease (e.g., Bartonella, Ehrlichia), additional oral antibiotics such as doxycycline may be required, typically 5 mg/kg twice daily for 21 days.
Regular oral prophylaxis, combined with proper tick removal techniques, provides the most reliable strategy to protect feline health from tick‑borne threats.
«Collars»
Collars designed for cats serve as a preventive barrier against ticks, reducing the need for emergency removal. By delivering a continuous dose of acaricidal agents, they limit tick attachment and feeding, which in turn lowers the risk of disease transmission.
When choosing a tick‑preventive collar, consider the following criteria:
- Active ingredient (e.g., flumethrin, imidacloprid) approved for feline use
- Duration of efficacy (typically 8–12 weeks)
- Adjustable size to fit the cat’s neck comfortably without choking risk
- Waterproof construction for indoor and outdoor environments
- Absence of toxic substances to other pets or children
Proper collar application enhances its effectiveness. Place the collar snugly, allowing two fingers to slide between the collar and the cat’s neck. Inspect the collar weekly for wear, loss of fragrance, or damage; replace it promptly if any issue arises.
If a tick is found despite preventive measures, remove it with fine‑pointed tweezers, grasping the head as close to the skin as possible and pulling straight upward. After extraction, clean the bite site with mild antiseptic, monitor for inflammation, and keep the cat’s collar in place to prevent further infestations. Regular collar use, combined with prompt manual removal when necessary, provides a comprehensive strategy for managing ticks on cats at home.
«Environmental Control in and Around Your Home»
Effective tick management for a cat begins with controlling the environment where the animal lives and roams. Reducing tick populations in the home and yard lowers the likelihood that a cat will acquire new parasites, making removal procedures less frequent and less urgent.
- Keep all sleeping areas, blankets, and upholstery clean; wash fabrics in hot water weekly and vacuum surfaces daily to dislodge any attached ticks or eggs.
- Apply a cat‑safe acaricide to carpets, baseboards, and under furniture, following label directions precisely.
- Seal cracks, gaps, and openings around doors, windows, and foundations to prevent wildlife and rodents, common tick carriers, from entering the interior.
- Trim grass, shrubs, and groundcover to a height of no more than three inches; maintain a clear zone of at least three feet between vegetation and the house.
- Remove leaf litter, tall weeds, and debris where ticks thrive; regularly rake and dispose of organic material far from the property.
- Install a physical barrier, such as a fine‑mesh fence, around garden beds to limit deer and other large mammals from entering.
- Use environmentally approved tick control stations (tick tubes) in the yard; these deliver acaricide‑treated rodents that naturally reduce tick numbers.
- Conduct weekly visual inspections of the cat’s coat, especially after outdoor excursions; promptly detach any attached ticks with fine‑tipped tweezers, grasping close to the skin and pulling steadily.
Maintaining a systematic schedule for cleaning, landscaping, and barrier upkeep creates a hostile environment for ticks, supporting safe and effective removal of any parasites that do attach to the cat. Continuous monitoring and prompt action ensure the household remains a low‑risk zone for tick exposure.
«Regular Grooming and Inspection»
Regular grooming and systematic inspection are essential components of effective tick management for indoor and outdoor cats. Consistent brushing removes loose fur, debris, and potential parasites, while visual checks identify attached ticks before they embed deeply.
- Choose a fine‑toothed comb or a grooming glove designed for short‑haired felines.
- Schedule grooming sessions at least twice weekly; increase to daily during peak tick season.
- During each session, run the comb from the head toward the tail, paying special attention to the ears, neck, armpits, and between the toes where ticks commonly attach.
- After each pass, examine the comb and the cat’s skin for small, dark specks or engorged bodies.
If a tick is found, follow the established removal protocol promptly to reduce the risk of disease transmission. Regular grooming also promotes skin health, making it easier to detect abnormalities and maintain overall feline well‑being.