How do you remove a tick from a cat's ear? - briefly
Use fine‑pointed tweezers to grasp the tick near the ear skin and pull upward with steady, even pressure, avoiding any crushing of the parasite. Disinfect the area with a mild antiseptic and watch the cat for irritation or infection.
How do you remove a tick from a cat's ear? - in detail
Removing a tick lodged in a cat’s ear requires calm handling, proper tools, and immediate after‑care.
First, restrain the animal safely. Enlist a second person if possible: one can hold the cat gently but firmly, while the other performs the extraction. Use a towel or a soft blanket to wrap the cat, exposing only the ear and minimizing stress.
Second, gather the necessary equipment:
- Fine‑pointed, blunt‑ended tweezers or a specialized tick‑removal hook;
- Disposable gloves;
- Antiseptic solution (e.g., chlorhexidine) and cotton swabs;
- A small container with a lid for the tick;
- A veterinarian‑approved topical antibiotic or ointment.
Third, locate the parasite. Ticks often embed near the base of the ear canal, where the skin is thin. Part the fur with a comb or your fingers, then examine the area closely.
Fourth, extract the tick:
- Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, avoiding squeezing the body.
- Apply steady, upward pressure, pulling straight out without twisting.
- If resistance occurs, adjust the grip and continue a gentle, consistent pull until the entire mouthparts detach.
Fifth, inspect the bite site. The skin should be intact; any remnants of the mouthparts left in the tissue can cause infection. If fragments remain, repeat the extraction with tweezers, or seek veterinary assistance.
Sixth, disinfect the area. Moisten a cotton swab with antiseptic and wipe the surrounding skin. Apply a thin layer of topical antibiotic to reduce bacterial growth.
Seventh, dispose of the tick securely. Place it in the sealed container, label with the date, and keep it for at least two weeks in case a veterinarian needs to identify the species.
Finally, monitor the cat for signs of illness over the next several days: lethargy, loss of appetite, fever, or a developing wound. Contact a veterinarian promptly if any abnormal symptoms appear. Regular grooming and routine tick prevention products can reduce future infestations.