How to treat a cat's ears for ticks?

Understanding Ear Ticks in Cats

What are Ear Ticks?

Common Types of Ticks Affecting Cat Ears

Cats frequently encounter ticks that attach to the ear canal, where the confined space facilitates rapid feeding and irritation. Accurate identification of the tick species present guides effective removal, topical therapy, and monitoring for vector‑borne diseases.

American dog tick (Dermacentor variabilis) – Large, reddish‑brown body with white‑marked scutum; common in the eastern United States; capable of transmitting Rocky Mountain spotted fever.
Brown dog tick (Rhipicephalus sanguineus) – Small, reddish‑brown, oval shape; thrives in indoor environments and warm climates; vector for ehrlichiosis and babesiosis.
Deer tick (Ixodes scapularis) – Tiny, dark‑brown to black, with a distinctive hourglass‑shaped scutum; prevalent in the northeastern United States; carrier of Lyme disease and anaplasmosis.
Lone star tick (Amblyomma americanum) – Dark brown with a white spot on the dorsal scutum; found throughout the southeastern United States; associated with cytauxzoonosis and ehrlichiosis.
Asian longhorned tick (Haemaphysalis longicornis) – Pale, reddish‑brown, elongated body; emerging in the United States; linked to severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome.

Identifying the tick species allows veterinarians to select appropriate acaricidal agents, anticipate possible pathogen exposure, and advise owners on preventive measures such as regular ear inspection, environmental control, and year‑round tick repellents.

Symptoms of a Tick Infestation

Ticks attached to a cat’s ears produce distinct clinical signs. The most reliable indicators include:

Visible engorged or semi‑transparent parasites embedded in the ear canal or on the outer ear flap.
Localized swelling, redness, or ulceration of the skin surrounding the attachment site.
Excessive scratching, head shaking, or pawing at the ears, often accompanied by audible rustling sounds.
Discharge ranging from clear serous fluid to thick, yellowish pus, sometimes with a foul odor.
Crusting or scab formation on the ear pinna and ventral surface of the canal.

Additional systemic manifestations may appear as the infestation progresses. Cats can develop fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, and weight loss. In severe cases, anemia or thrombocytopenia may be evident through pale mucous membranes or prolonged bleeding times. Early detection of these symptoms is essential for prompt intervention and prevention of secondary infections.

Preparing for Tick Removal

Essential Supplies for Tick Removal

Tick Removal Tools

Effective ear‑tick management in cats relies on precise instruments designed to grasp and extract parasites without damaging delicate tissues. Selecting the appropriate tools reduces trauma, prevents infection, and increases the likelihood of complete removal.

Fine‑point tweezers with serrated tips – secure the tick’s head close to the skin.
Curved ear‑specific forceps – follow the ear canal curvature, providing better access.
Tick removal hooks (small, stainless‑steel) – slide under the tick’s mouthparts for a swift pull.
Magnifying lamp with adjustable brightness – enhances visibility of tiny ticks in the ear canal.
Disposable gloves – protect both the cat and the handler from pathogen transmission.

Procedure:

Restrain the cat gently; use a towel or a cat‑friendly holder to limit movement.
Illuminate the ear canal, locate the tick, and assess its attachment depth.
Position the chosen instrument at the tick’s head, ensuring the bite mouth is captured.
Apply steady, even pressure; pull straight outward without twisting.
Inspect the extracted tick for intact mouthparts; repeat if any fragment remains.
Clean the ear with a veterinarian‑approved antiseptic solution; monitor for redness or swelling.

Safety measures include disinfecting all tools before and after each use, discarding gloves after each session, and consulting a veterinarian if the cat shows signs of discomfort, infection, or if the tick is deeply embedded. Proper tool selection and disciplined technique constitute the cornerstone of safe ear‑tick removal in felines.

Antiseptics and Aftercare Products

When a tick is removed from a cat’s ear, the surrounding skin may be irritated or infected. Applying an appropriate antiseptic immediately reduces bacterial colonisation and promotes healing. Choose a product that is veterinary‑approved, non‑ototoxic, and free of alcohol or harsh solvents. Common options include chlorhexidine gluconate (0.05 %–0.2 %), povidone‑iodine (1 %–2 %), and sterile saline solution. Apply a few drops to a sterile cotton swab, gently clean the ear canal and external pinna, and allow the area to air‑dry before any further treatment.

After disinfection, supportive aftercare products help maintain ear health and prevent secondary complications. Recommended items are:

Ear moisturisers containing aloe vera or lanolin to soothe inflammation.
Barrier creams with zinc oxide or petrolatum to protect the skin from moisture and debris.
Anti‑inflammatory sprays with hydrocortisone (0.5 %–1 %) for short‑term relief of swelling.
Probiotic ear drops that introduce beneficial bacteria to outcompete pathogens.

When using aftercare products, follow these guidelines:

Verify the product label states suitability for feline use and ear application.
Apply the recommended dose; excess liquid can accumulate and cause discomfort.
Observe the cat for signs of irritation, such as increased scratching or discharge; discontinue use if adverse reactions appear.
Store all solutions in a cool, dark place to preserve efficacy.

Regular inspection of the cat’s ears after treatment is essential. Clean the area weekly with a mild antiseptic, reapply moisturisers as needed, and schedule a veterinary check‑up if the ear does not show improvement within 3–5 days. This systematic approach minimizes infection risk and supports rapid recovery of the ear tissue.

Calming Your Cat for the Procedure

Creating a Safe and Quiet Environment

A calm setting reduces stress and limits the risk of injury while removing ticks from a cat’s ear canal. Begin by selecting a quiet room away from household traffic. Close doors, turn off televisions or loud appliances, and dim the lights to create a soothing atmosphere.

Place a soft, non‑slip surface such as a rubber mat or towel on a stable table or countertop. Secure the cat gently with a lightweight harness or a towel wrap, ensuring the animal cannot wriggle free but remains comfortable. An assistant should hold the cat’s head steady, using a calm voice and minimal movement.

Prepare all tools within arm’s reach: tick removal tweezers, a flashlight, cotton balls, saline solution, and a veterinary‑approved antiseptic. Having everything ready eliminates unnecessary interruptions.

When inspecting the ear, use the flashlight to locate the tick. Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull straight upward with steady pressure. Avoid twisting, which can leave mouthparts embedded. After extraction, clean the ear canal with saline, then apply antiseptic to prevent infection.

Finally, reward the cat with a brief treat or gentle petting to reinforce a positive association with the procedure. Repeat the calm environment for each ear and for any future grooming sessions.

Assistance from Another Person

When a cat has ticks lodged in the ear canal, an extra set of hands greatly improves safety and effectiveness. A second person can keep the animal steady, allowing precise inspection and accurate application of medication without causing stress or injury.

The assisting partner should:

Gently hold the cat behind the shoulders, using a towel or a cat‑bag if the animal is particularly restless.
Support the head while the primary caregiver lifts the ear flap and visualizes the tick’s location with a bright light.
Pass the treatment instrument (e.g., a tick remover or topical solution) directly to the primary caregiver, reducing the need for the cat‑owner to reach into the ear.
Observe the cat’s reaction during and after the procedure, noting any bleeding, swelling, or signs of discomfort.
Keep a record of the tick’s removal, the product used, and the time of application for future reference.

After removal, the helper can assist by cleaning the ear with a veterinarian‑approved solution, drying the area with a soft cloth, and dispensing any prescribed post‑treatment medication. Finally, the assistant should monitor the cat for 24‑48 hours, reporting any abnormal behavior or recurrence of ticks to the veterinarian.

The Tick Removal Process

Locating Ticks in the Ear

Visual Inspection

When checking a cat’s ear for tick presence, begin with a calm environment to reduce stress. Gently restrain the animal, using a towel or a helper if needed, and hold the ear upright to expose the canal.

Inspect the outer ear flap (pinna) for:

Small, dark specks or moving objects near the base
Redness, swelling, or crusted debris
Excessive wax that may conceal parasites

Open the ear canal with a veterinary otoscope or a well‑lit flashlight. Look for:

Tick bodies attached to the skin, often resembling tiny, flat, brown or gray discs
Tick legs protruding from the body, especially if the parasite is engorged
Blood‑stained wax or scabs, indicating recent feeding

If a tick is visible, note its location (inner rim, deep canal, or ear base) and assess attachment strength before removal. Record any abnormalities such as ulceration or discharge, as these may require additional treatment.

After the inspection, clean the ear with a veterinarian‑approved solution to remove residual debris, then re‑examine to confirm that no ticks remain. Repeat the visual check weekly during peak tick season or after outdoor exposure.

Gentle Palpation

Gentle palpation is a primary step when inspecting a cat’s ear for tick presence. The veterinarian or caregiver inserts a fingertip or a soft gauze pad into the ear canal, applying minimal pressure to feel for irregularities without causing pain. The method allows detection of attached ticks, swelling, or debris that may be missed by visual inspection alone.

Key points for effective palpation:

Use a gloved hand to maintain hygiene and protect against potential tick bites.
Position the cat securely, preferably on a calm surface, to prevent sudden movements.
Slide the fingertip gently along the vertical walls of the canal, feeling for hard, rounded bodies that differ from the surrounding tissue.
If a tick is felt, note its location (inner or outer canal) before removal to avoid rupturing the mouthparts.
After palpation, examine the ear with a otoscope to confirm findings and assess any secondary inflammation.

Proper palpation minimizes stress for the animal and increases the likelihood of locating hidden parasites, facilitating prompt and accurate removal.

Step-by-Step Tick Removal

Securing the Tick

When a tick is found in a cat’s ear, the first priority is to isolate the parasite safely before removal. Proper containment prevents the tick from dropping onto the floor, contaminating surfaces, or re‑infesting the animal.

Use fine‑point tweezers or a specialized tick removal tool; grip the tick as close to the skin as possible.
Pull upward with steady, even pressure; avoid twisting, which can leave mouthparts embedded.
Immediately place the tick in a sealed container (e.g., a screw‑top vial) containing 70 % isopropyl alcohol. The alcohol kills the tick and preserves it for identification if needed.
Label the container with the date, location of removal, and the cat’s identification details.
Dispose of the alcohol solution according to local hazardous waste guidelines after a minimum of 24 hours of submersion.

After securing the tick, inspect the ear canal for residual damage or infection. If inflammation persists, consult a veterinarian for appropriate topical or systemic treatment.

Extracting the Tick Safely

Ticks attached to a cat’s ear canal can cause irritation, infection, and disease. Removing the parasite without crushing it prevents pathogen transmission and minimizes tissue damage.

Gather the necessary items before handling the cat: fine‑pointed tweezers or a tick‑removal tool, disposable gloves, a dim flashlight, a clean cloth, antiseptic solution, and a container with a lid for the tick. Secure the cat in a calm position; a second person may hold the animal gently but firmly to limit sudden movements.

Extraction steps

Locate the tick’s head with the flashlight; ensure a clear view of the attachment site.
Position the tweezers as close to the cat’s skin as possible, grasping the tick’s mouthparts, not the body.
Apply steady, even pressure straight outward; avoid twisting or jerking motions.
Release the tick once it separates, placing it in the lid for later identification or disposal.
Inspect the bite area for remaining mouthparts; if any remain, repeat the procedure.

After removal, clean the wound with antiseptic and monitor for swelling, redness, or discharge over the next 24‑48 hours. Contact a veterinarian if signs of infection appear or if the cat shows unusual behavior. Preserve the extracted tick for laboratory analysis if disease exposure is suspected.

Disposing of the Tick

When a tick is removed from a cat’s ear, immediate disposal prevents re‑attachment and limits pathogen spread. The tick must be handled with sterile tools to avoid contaminating the environment or the animal.

Grasp the tick with fine‑point tweezers as close to the skin as possible.
Pull straight upward with steady pressure; avoid twisting to prevent mouth‑part loss.
Place the live tick into a sealable plastic bag, add a small amount of isopropyl alcohol, and seal tightly.
Dispose of the sealed bag in household waste; do not flush in the toilet.
For large infestations, consider a dedicated biohazard container and follow local regulations for medical waste.

After disposal, clean the cat’s ear with a veterinarian‑approved antiseptic solution, then monitor the site for inflammation or infection. Document the tick’s appearance and date of removal; this information assists veterinary assessment of potential disease transmission.

Aftercare and Monitoring

Cleaning the Ear

Cleaning the ear is a necessary step when removing ticks from a cat’s auditory canal. It eliminates debris, reduces irritation, and allows visual inspection for remaining parasites.

Procedure

Gather a veterinarian‑approved ear cleanser, sterile cotton balls, and a soft towel.
Restrain the cat gently; wrap in a towel if needed to prevent sudden movements.
Apply a few drops of the cleanser into the ear canal, following the product’s dosage instructions.
Massage the base of the ear for 20–30 seconds to distribute the solution and loosen wax and dead tissue.
Allow the cat to shake its head; this expels excess fluid and debris.
Use a cotton ball to wipe the outer ear and entrance of the canal; do not insert cotton swabs deep into the canal, as this may damage delicate structures.
Inspect the ear with a bright light; if any tick remnants or excessive wax remain, repeat the cleaning once more.
After cleaning, dry the ear gently with a clean, lint‑free cloth.

Regular ear cleaning, performed before and after tick removal, supports healing and prevents secondary infections. If inflammation, discharge, or persistent odor develops, consult a veterinarian promptly.

Applying Topical Treatments

Topical agents provide a direct method for eliminating ticks lodged in a cat’s ear canal. They deliver insecticidal or acaricidal compounds to the affected area, reducing the risk of secondary infection and discomfort.

Select a product formulated for feline ear use. Options include spot‑on solutions, ear‑drop formulations, and spray‑on preparations containing ingredients such as fipronil, selamectin, or pyrethrins. Verify veterinary approval, concentration suitable for the cat’s weight, and absence of ingredients known to irritate the ear canal.

Prepare the animal and the treatment site. Restrain the cat gently but securely, using a towel or a cat‑handling bag if necessary. Inspect the ear for debris, wax, or signs of inflammation. Clean the outer ear with a veterinarian‑recommended ear cleanser; avoid inserting cotton swabs into the canal.

Apply the topical medication according to the following steps:

Dispense the recommended dose onto a clean fingertip or directly into the ear opening, as indicated on the product label.
Tilt the cat’s head slightly upward to expose the ear canal.
Gently massage the base of the ear for 10–15 seconds to encourage distribution of the solution.
Allow the cat to shake its head naturally; this helps spread the medication but may also cause some spillage—re‑apply any excess to the outer ear if needed.
Dispose of the applicator or tip safely, following local hazardous‑waste guidelines.

Observe the cat for at least 30 minutes after treatment. Look for signs of irritation, excessive scratching, or persistent head shaking. If adverse reactions appear, wash the area with mild saline solution and contact a veterinarian promptly. Repeat the application according to the product’s schedule, typically every 2–4 weeks, to maintain protection against re‑infestation.

Observing for Complications

Treating a cat’s ear for ticks requires immediate post‑treatment observation to catch adverse reactions early. The ear canal is delicate; irritation, infection, or systemic effects can develop within hours or days.

Key indicators of complications:

Persistent redness, swelling, or discharge beyond normal cleaning residue
Excessive scratching, head shaking, or pawing at the ear
Signs of pain when the ear is touched or examined
Fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, or vomiting
Unusual behavior such as aggression or hiding

If any of these signs appear, follow these steps:

Re‑examine the ear under adequate lighting; note the extent of inflammation or debris.
Clean the area gently with a vet‑approved solution; avoid harsh chemicals.
Contact a veterinarian promptly; provide details of the treatment used, dosage, and observed symptoms.
Keep the cat in a calm, stress‑free environment; limit ear manipulation until professional advice is received.

Continuous monitoring for at least 48 hours after treatment reduces the risk of severe outcomes and ensures timely veterinary intervention.

When to Seek Veterinary Assistance

Signs of a Severe Infestation

Severe tick infestation in a cat’s ear canal manifests with unmistakable clinical indicators. Early recognition prevents tissue damage, secondary infection, and systemic illness.

Excessive ear wax that is dark, crumbly, or foul‑smelling.
Visible ticks attached to the inner ear, often clustered near the base of the ear flap.
Redness, swelling, or ulceration of the ear canal lining.
Persistent scratching, head shaking, or ear rubbing that escalates despite routine cleaning.
Blood‑tinged discharge or oozing from the ear.
Signs of anemia or lethargy, suggesting heavy blood loss or toxin exposure.

These symptoms signal that the parasite burden has overwhelmed the cat’s normal defenses. Prompt, targeted removal of all ticks, thorough decontamination of the ear, and veterinary assessment for anti‑inflammatory or antimicrobial therapy are essential steps. Failure to address these signs can lead to chronic otitis, hearing loss, or systemic tick‑borne disease.

Symptoms of Infection or Allergic Reaction

When ticks are removed from a cat’s ear canal, early detection of complications prevents worsening conditions.

Typical signs of bacterial or fungal infection include:

Redness that spreads beyond the immediate site
Swelling or thickened tissue
Purulent or mucoid discharge, often with a foul smell
Elevated temperature of the ear, palpable as warmth
Noticeable pain when the ear is touched or the cat vocalizes

Allergic reactions to tick saliva, topical treatments, or removal tools may present as:

Intense itching leading to frequent head shaking or ear scratching
Rapid swelling of the ear flap or surrounding skin
Hives or raised welts on the ear or face
Sudden vomiting or diarrhea after exposure
Labored breathing or facial swelling, indicating systemic involvement

If any of these manifestations appear, immediate veterinary assessment is required to initiate appropriate antimicrobial therapy, anti‑inflammatory medication, or emergency allergy management. Prompt intervention reduces tissue damage and supports swift recovery.

Inability to Remove Ticks Safely

Cats with ear ticks often present owners with a false sense of control, yet the removal process carries significant hazards. The tiny size of the parasite, its deep attachment to delicate ear tissue, and the cat’s instinctive reflexes combine to make safe extraction extremely difficult. Improper techniques can cause the tick’s mouthparts to remain embedded, leading to chronic inflammation, secondary bacterial infection, and intense pain.

Key risks associated with attempted self‑removal include:

Fragmented tick bodies left in the canal, which act as a nidus for infection.
Damage to the ear cartilage or eardrum caused by forceful pulling or inappropriate tools.
Transmission of pathogens such as Bartonella or Rickettsia during handling.
Stress‑induced trauma to the animal, potentially resulting in aggressive behavior or injury to the handler.

Professional veterinary intervention offers the most reliable solution. Veterinarians possess specialized instruments—such as fine forceps designed for otic work—and the expertise to locate the tick’s head, apply steady traction, and ensure complete removal without harming surrounding tissue. In addition, they can administer topical or systemic antiparasitic medication to eradicate residual larvae and prevent reinfestation.

When immediate veterinary care is unavailable, the following precautions may reduce harm:

Restrain the cat gently but securely, using a towel or a cat‑specific restraint bag.
Illuminate the ear canal with a bright otoscope to improve visibility.
Employ a pair of fine, curved forceps to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, avoiding compression of the body.
Apply steady, even pressure straight outward; abrupt jerks increase the chance of mouthpart breakage.
After extraction, disinfect the area with a veterinary‑approved antiseptic and monitor for swelling, discharge, or persistent scratching.

Even with meticulous care, complete safety cannot be guaranteed without professional oversight. The inherent difficulty of extracting ear ticks from cats underscores the necessity of prompt veterinary assessment to avoid complications and ensure the animal’s welfare.

Preventing Future Tick Infestations

Regular Tick Checks

Regular tick inspections of a cat’s ears are a core component of any plan to eliminate ear infestations. Perform checks at least once a week, increasing frequency during peak tick season or after outdoor exposure.

Gently lift each ear flap and examine the inner surface with a bright light.
Look for small, dark specks (ticks) attached to the skin or hair, as well as signs of irritation or excess wax.
Use a fine‑toothed comb or a soft brush to separate hair and reveal hidden parasites.
If a tick is found, grasp it close to the skin with tweezers, pull straight upward without twisting, and dispose of it safely.
After removal, clean the area with a cat‑safe antiseptic solution and monitor for redness or swelling.

Consistent monitoring prevents tick populations from establishing, reduces the risk of secondary infections, and supports the effectiveness of topical or systemic treatments applied to the cat’s ears.

Tick Prevention Products

Topical Spot-Ons

Topical spot‑on products deliver systemic acaricidal activity that reaches the ear canal, making them a practical option for managing ear ticks in cats.

Active ingredients such as fipronil, selamectin, or imidacloprid spread through the skin’s lipid layer, enter the bloodstream, and affect parasites that attach to the ear canal. The result is rapid paralysis and death of ticks that attempt to feed.

When choosing a spot‑on, verify that the formulation is specifically labeled for feline use and includes ear‑tick control. Confirm the concentration matches the cat’s weight, and ensure the product is safe for kittens, pregnant or lactating cats, and for households with other animals.

Application steps:

Weigh the cat and calculate the required dose according to the manufacturer’s chart.
Part the fur at the base of the neck, away from the ears, to expose clean skin.
Apply the entire measured volume in a single spot, allowing it to spread naturally.
Prevent the cat from licking the area for at least five minutes; wash hands afterward.

After treatment, inspect the ears daily for residual ticks, inflammation, or signs of irritation. Repeat the application at the interval specified on the label—typically monthly—to break the tick life cycle. Record any adverse reactions such as excessive scratching, vomiting, or lethargy and consult a veterinarian promptly.

Safety considerations include avoiding products that contain pyrethrins in cats with known sensitivities, checking for drug interactions with concurrent heartworm preventatives, and refraining from use on cats with open wounds or severe ear infections.

Key points:

Spot‑ons provide systemic protection that reaches the ear canal.
Select products labeled for ear‑tick control and appropriate for the cat’s weight and health status.
Apply at the base of the neck, not directly on the ears.
Follow the manufacturer’s re‑application schedule to maintain efficacy.
Monitor ears regularly and report any adverse effects to a veterinarian.

Oral Medications

Treating tick infestations within a cat’s ear canal often involves systemic therapy because topical products may not reach the inner ear adequately. Oral medications provide rapid absorption, ensuring that ticks are exposed to therapeutic concentrations throughout the body, including the ear region.

The most commonly prescribed oral agents include:

Isoxazoline compounds (e.g., afoxolaner, fluralaner, sarolaner). These inhibit GABA‑gated chloride channels in arthropods, causing paralysis and death. Standard dosing ranges from 2.5 mg/kg to 5 mg/kg, administered once every 4–12 weeks depending on the product. Food does not significantly affect absorption, but giving the tablet with a meal can reduce gastrointestinal upset.
Macrocyclic lactones (e.g., milbemycin oxime). These bind to glutamate‑gated chloride channels, leading to paralysis of parasites. Typical dosage is 0.5 mg/kg once monthly. Efficacy against ear‑dwelling ticks is moderate; combination with a fast‑acting isoxazoline may improve results.
Spinosad. This neurotoxic agent interferes with nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. Recommended dose is 30 mg/kg orally, repeated after 30 days. It offers rapid tick kill but may cause transient vomiting in sensitive individuals.

When prescribing oral therapy, consider the following safety measures:

Verify the cat’s weight to calculate an accurate dose; under‑dosing can foster resistance, while overdosing increases toxicity risk.
Review the animal’s medical history for hepatic, renal, or neurologic disorders; isoxazolines are contraindicated in cats with known hypersensitivity to this class.
Monitor for adverse reactions such as lethargy, ataxia, or gastrointestinal distress within 24 hours of administration; contact a veterinarian if symptoms persist.
Ensure the cat completes the full treatment interval; reinfestation is common if dosing gaps occur.

Oral medication should complement ear cleaning and, when necessary, local antiparasitic drops. Combining systemic and topical approaches maximizes tick eradication while minimizing the chance of residual infestation in the ear canal.

Maintaining a Clean Environment

A tidy living space reduces the risk of tick colonisation around a cat’s ears. Dust, hair, and debris create a habitat where ticks can hide and attach to the animal’s skin, especially in the ear canal. Regular removal of these elements interrupts the life cycle of the parasites and supports effective treatment.

Maintain cleanliness with a consistent schedule:

Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstery daily; focus on areas where the cat rests.
Wash all bedding, blankets, and soft toys in hot water (minimum 60 °C) weekly.
Mop hard floors with a disinfectant approved for pets; allow surfaces to dry completely before the cat returns.
Clean litter boxes and surrounding areas twice a week, discarding waste promptly.
Inspect and trim surrounding vegetation to eliminate low‑lying grass and leaf litter that attract ticks.

Combine environmental hygiene with routine health checks. Examine the cat’s ears each week for redness, swelling, or visible parasites. Promptly apply veterinarian‑recommended ear drops or topical tick preventatives after cleaning. A disciplined cleaning regimen, paired with vigilant monitoring, creates a hostile environment for ticks and facilitates rapid recovery of the cat’s ear health.