How does a tick bite look on a dog's abdomen? - briefly
A tick bite on a dog’s belly appears as a small, raised lesion that may be red, pink, or brown, often with a central puncture mark where the mouthparts entered; if the tick remains attached, an engorged, darkened parasite may be visible at the site. The surrounding skin can show mild swelling or irritation.
How does a tick bite look on a dog's abdomen? - in detail
A tick attached to a dog’s midsection typically presents as a small, rounded or oval lump embedded in the skin. The base of the parasite may be barely visible, while the body protrudes slightly, giving the bite a “button‑like” appearance. Key visual characteristics include:
- Size: Early attachment measures 2‑5 mm in diameter; as the tick feeds, it can enlarge to 10‑15 mm or more.
- Color: The exoskeleton ranges from light brown to dark brown, often darker than surrounding fur. Engorged specimens may appear grayish or reddish due to the blood meal.
- Surface texture: The outer shell is hard and smooth, but the attachment point may feel slightly raised or firm to the touch.
- Surrounding skin: The area around the bite may be reddened, inflamed, or mildly swollen. In some cases, a tiny puncture hole is visible at the center of the tick’s mouthparts.
- Hair loss: Localized alopecia can develop where the tick has attached, creating a small, clear patch of missing fur.
- Secondary signs: If the bite is irritated, the dog may exhibit licking, scratching, or a thin scab forming after the tick detaches.
When the tick is fully engorged, the skin may stretch, creating a more pronounced bulge. After removal, the bite site often remains a small, raised scar that gradually fades over days to weeks. Monitoring the lesion for increasing redness, discharge, or swelling is essential, as these may indicate infection or an allergic reaction.