Cat has ticks: how to get rid of them at home? - briefly
Grasp each tick near the skin with fine‑pointed tweezers and pull upward with steady pressure, then disinfect the bite site and watch for irritation. Follow up with a vet‑approved topical or oral tick preventive to stop re‑infestation.
Cat has ticks: how to get rid of them at home? - in detail
A cat infested with ticks requires prompt removal to prevent disease transmission and skin irritation. The following protocol outlines safe, effective home treatment.
First, gather the necessary tools: fine‑pointed tweezers or a specialized tick remover, disposable gloves, antiseptic solution, a clean cloth, and a sealed container for disposal. Wear gloves to avoid direct contact with the parasite’s saliva.
-
Locate the tick – Part the fur with a comb, focusing on typical attachment sites such as the head, ears, neck, and between the toes. The parasite appears as a small, dark, oval body attached to the skin.
-
Secure the tick – Position the tweezers as close to the cat’s skin as possible, gripping the tick’s head or mouthparts without squeezing the abdomen. This minimizes the risk of injecting pathogen‑laden fluids.
-
Extract steadily – Pull upward with steady, even pressure. Avoid twisting or jerking, which can leave mouthparts embedded. If any part remains, repeat the grasp and removal until the entire organism is detached.
-
Disinfect the bite site – Apply antiseptic to the puncture wound, then wipe with a clean cloth. Monitor the area for signs of inflammation over the next 24‑48 hours.
-
Dispose of the tick – Place the removed parasite in a sealed container with alcohol or flush it down the toilet. Do not crush it with fingers.
-
Prevent re‑infestation – Administer a veterinarian‑approved topical or oral tick preventative according to the product’s schedule. Regularly inspect the coat, especially after outdoor excursions. Maintain a clean living environment by vacuuming carpets and washing bedding in hot water.
If multiple ticks are present, repeat the removal process for each. Persistent or heavy infestations may indicate an underlying environmental issue; consider treating the home’s interior with a pet‑safe acaricide and consult a veterinary professional for additional guidance.