How should a tick be properly extracted from a cat? - briefly
Use fine‑point tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the cat’s skin as possible, then pull upward with steady, even pressure until the mouthparts release; clean the bite site with antiseptic and discard the tick in a sealed container.
How should a tick be properly extracted from a cat? - in detail
Removing a tick from a cat requires precision and hygiene to prevent infection and ensure complete extraction.
First, gather supplies: fine‑point tweezers or a tick‑removal tool, disposable gloves, antiseptic solution, cotton balls, and a sealed container with alcohol for disposal.
- Put on gloves to avoid direct contact with the parasite.
- Part the fur around the attachment site with a comb or fingers, exposing the tick’s head.
- Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, holding the mouthparts, not the body, to avoid crushing.
- Apply steady, upward pressure; pull straight out without twisting. If resistance occurs, reposition the tool and repeat.
- Inspect the tick; ensure the head is fully removed. If fragments remain, repeat the removal process.
- Clean the bite area with antiseptic and monitor for redness or swelling over the next 24‑48 hours.
- Place the whole tick in the alcohol‑filled container, label with date and location, and discard according to local regulations.
After removal, wash hands thoroughly. If the cat shows signs of illness, lethargy, or an expanding wound, contact a veterinarian promptly.