How does a subcutaneous tick appear in cats? - briefly
A subcutaneous tick embeds beneath the cat’s skin, presenting as a small, firm, raised nodule often without visible legs. The site may exhibit localized swelling, erythema, or a tiny puncture opening at the attachment point.
How does a subcutaneous tick appear in cats? - in detail
A subcutaneous tick in a cat presents as a small, firm nodule beneath the skin, often indistinguishable from a cyst or lipoma. The lesion is typically round, 2‑5 mm in diameter, and may feel slightly mobile when palpated. Overlying hair can be normal or slightly thinned, and the skin may appear normal or display a faint erythema.
Clinical signs include:
- Localized swelling without obvious external parasite
- Mild to moderate discomfort when the area is touched
- Occasional pruritus or licking of the affected region
- Rarely, systemic signs such as fever or lethargy if the tick transmits pathogens
Diagnostic steps:
- Palpation to detect a firm, encapsulated mass.
- Fine‑needle aspiration or incision to retrieve the tick for identification.
- Laboratory analysis of the extracted specimen to determine species and assess pathogen load.
Pathophysiology involves the tick embedding its mouthparts into the subdermal tissue, secreting anticoagulant and immunomodulatory compounds that prevent immediate inflammatory response. The tick remains hidden for several days to weeks, feeding on blood while the host’s immune system is locally suppressed.
Treatment consists of surgical removal of the tick with careful excision of the surrounding capsule to prevent residual inflammation. Post‑removal monitoring should include:
- Inspection of the wound for infection.
- Administration of broad‑spectrum antibiotics if secondary bacterial infection is suspected.
- Tick‑preventive medication to reduce future infestations.
Prevention strategies focus on regular ectoparasite control, routine skin examinations, and maintaining indoor environments free of rodent reservoirs that harbor ticks. Early detection relies on vigilant observation of any new subdermal nodules, especially in regions where ticks are endemic. «Effective prevention and prompt removal are essential to avoid complications such as anemia, tick‑borne disease transmission, and chronic dermatitis».