How are ticks treated in pets? - briefly
Ticks are removed with fine‑point tweezers or a dedicated tick‑removal tool, the bite area is cleaned, and a veterinarian‑recommended preventive product (topical, oral or collar) is applied to stop future infestations.
How are ticks treated in pets? - in detail
Ticks attach to the skin, feed on blood, and can transmit diseases; prompt removal and preventive care are essential for the health of dogs and cats.
The first step is safe extraction. Use fine‑point tweezers or a dedicated tick‑removal tool to grasp the tick as close to the epidermis as possible. Pull upward with steady, even pressure; avoid twisting or crushing the body, which can release pathogens. After removal, clean the bite site with antiseptic solution and wash hands thoroughly. Dispose of the tick by placing it in alcohol or sealing it in a plastic bag before discarding.
Veterinary‑recommended treatments include:
- Topical acaricides (e.g., fipronil, selamectin) applied monthly to the neck or shoulders.
- Oral systemic medications (e.g., afoxolaner, fluralaner) that kill ticks after ingestion.
- Collars impregnated with permethrin or imidacloprid, providing continuous protection for several months.
- Spot‑on formulations containing sarolaner or milbemycin, suitable for pets with sensitivities to other products.
Preventive strategies complement medication:
- Regular grooming and inspection after walks in wooded or grassy areas.
- Maintenance of the home environment: vacuum carpets, wash bedding at high temperatures, and treat outdoor spaces with environmentally safe acaricides when infestation levels are high.
- Landscaping adjustments, such as trimming tall grass and removing leaf litter, reduce tick habitat near living areas.
If a pet shows signs of tick‑borne illness—fever, lethargy, joint swelling, or loss of appetite—seek veterinary evaluation immediately. Diagnostic tests (PCR, serology) identify specific pathogens, and targeted antibiotic or antiparasitic therapy may be required.
Follow‑up care after treatment involves monitoring the bite site for inflammation, re‑examining the animal weekly for new ticks, and adhering to the recommended re‑application interval of preventive products. Consistent use of approved acaricides, combined with vigilant inspection, minimizes the risk of tick‑related disease in companion animals.