How can ticks in a cat's ear be recognized? - briefly
Look for tiny, dark, round bodies attached to the inner ear canal or visible on the outer ear, often accompanied by redness, swelling, or a gritty sensation when the cat scratches. A close visual inspection with a magnifying tool and gentle ear cleaning can confirm their presence.
How can ticks in a cat's ear be recognized? - in detail
Ticks that attach to a cat’s ear canal are small, dark‑brown or reddish parasites that can be seen with the naked eye when the pet’s ear is examined closely. Their presence is indicated by several observable signs.
The ear may appear swollen or reddened, especially around the entrance of the canal. A cat might scratch the ear vigorously or shake its head repeatedly. Excessive wax, a black or brown crust, or a foul odor often accompany an infestation. When the ear is gently pulled forward and examined with a flashlight, a tick appears as a rounded, engorged body with a distinct, hard back (the scutum) and legs that may be partially hidden under the skin.
A systematic inspection helps confirm the problem:
- Position the cat in a calm, restrained stance; use a helper if needed.
- Pull the outer ear flap outward to expose the canal entrance.
- Illuminate the area with a focused light source.
- Look for a firm, oval parasite attached to the skin; note any blood‑stained or inflamed tissue around it.
- Gently palpate the surrounding skin for tenderness or swelling.
If a tick is found, remove it with fine‑pointed forceps, grasping as close to the skin as possible to avoid leaving mouthparts behind. After extraction, clean the area with a mild antiseptic solution and monitor the ear for continued redness or discharge, which may indicate secondary infection.
Regular ear checks during grooming sessions, especially after outdoor exposure, reduce the risk of missed infestations. Early identification prevents blood loss, skin irritation, and potential transmission of tick‑borne diseases.