How can you treat ticks on cats and what should be used for treatment? - briefly
Remove attached ticks with fine tweezers, grasping close to the skin and pulling straight out, then disinfect the area. Apply veterinarian‑approved tick control products—such as spot‑on formulations (fipronil, selamectin), oral medications (afoxolaner, fluralaner), or tick collars—and follow the label’s dosing schedule.
How can you treat ticks on cats and what should be used for treatment? - in detail
Treating tick infestations in cats requires prompt removal of the parasites and administration of an appropriate ectoparasitic medication. After a tick is found, grasp it as close to the skin as possible with fine‑point tweezers, pull upward with steady pressure, and disinfect the bite site. Do not crush the body, as this may release pathogens.
Effective pharmacologic options include:
- Topical spot‑on formulations (e.g., fipronil, selamectin, imidacloprid combined with permethrin). Apply a measured dose directly to the skin at the base of the skull; the product spreads over the coat and provides protection for 4–8 weeks.
- Oral chewable tablets (e.g., afoxolaner, fluralaner, sarolaner). Administer according to body weight; protection lasts from one month up to three months, depending on the active ingredient.
- Collars containing imidacloprid, flumethrin, or deltamethrin. Secure the collar snugly around the neck; efficacy persists for up to eight months.
- Sprays and shampoos containing pyrethrins, pyrethroids, or neem oil. Use as directed for immediate kill; repeat applications may be necessary for ongoing control.
When selecting a product, verify that it is labeled for feline use; many canine formulations, especially those containing permethrin, are toxic to cats. Consider the cat’s age, health status, and any concurrent medications. Consult a veterinarian before initiating treatment in kittens under eight weeks, pregnant or lactating females, or animals with renal, hepatic, or cardiac disease.
Environmental control reduces reinfestation risk. Wash bedding, blankets, and toys in hot water; vacuum carpets and upholstery thoroughly; treat the household environment with a veterinarian‑recommended acaricide if heavy infestation is suspected. Regularly inspect outdoor areas, especially tall grass and leaf litter, and limit unsupervised access to high‑risk habitats.
Monitoring after treatment is essential. Re‑examine the cat weekly for new ticks, and repeat the chosen preventive measure according to the product’s recommended interval. If signs of illness appear—fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, or anemia—seek veterinary evaluation promptly, as ticks can transmit diseases such as cytauxzoonosis, babesiosis, or ehrlichiosis.