Found a tick on a cat, what should I do? - briefly
Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the cat’s skin as possible and pull upward with steady, even pressure; then clean the bite site with antiseptic and watch for signs of infection. Contact your veterinarian promptly for advice on follow‑up care and any necessary medication.
Found a tick on a cat, what should I do? - in detail
If you discover a tick attached to your cat, act promptly to minimize the risk of disease transmission and skin irritation.
First, isolate the animal in a calm environment. Restrain the cat gently but firmly, using a towel or a helper if needed, to prevent sudden movements that could push the tick deeper into the skin.
Prepare the necessary tools: a pair of fine‑pointed, blunt‑tipped tweezers or a dedicated tick‑removal device, a clean cloth, antiseptic solution, and disposable gloves. Disinfect the tweezers before use.
Removal steps:
- Grasp the tick as close to the cat’s skin as possible, holding the mouthparts, not the body.
- Apply steady, upward pressure; avoid twisting or jerking, which can leave mouthparts embedded.
- Once the tick detaches, place it in a sealed container with alcohol for identification if a veterinarian requests it.
- Clean the bite site with antiseptic and monitor for redness or swelling.
After the tick is gone, wash your hands thoroughly. Observe the cat for the next two weeks, watching for signs such as fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, or a developing rash at the attachment site. If any abnormal symptoms appear, contact a veterinarian without delay.
Preventive measures:
- Maintain a regular schedule of ectoparasite preventatives approved for felines (topical, oral, or collar formulations).
- Inspect the coat after outdoor excursions, especially in grassy or wooded areas.
- Keep the yard trimmed and remove leaf litter to reduce tick habitats.
Prompt removal, proper wound care, and vigilant monitoring together reduce the likelihood of tick‑borne illnesses and keep your cat healthy.