How should ear ticks in cats be treated? - briefly
Inspect the cat’s ears, extract any ticks with fine‑tipped tweezers, and apply a veterinarian‑approved topical acaricide, then clean the ear canal and start a preventive regimen. Consult a vet for correct dosage and to rule out secondary infection.
How should ear ticks in cats be treated? - in detail
Ear ticks that infest a cat’s ear canal require prompt identification and systematic management. The first step is a thorough visual inspection, often aided by a bright light and a gentle ear speculum. Adult ticks appear as dark, oval bodies attached to the skin; nymphs are smaller and may be translucent. Any visible parasites should be removed before applying medication.
Removal should be performed with fine‑point tweezers or a specialized tick‑removal tool. Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, pull upward with steady pressure, and avoid twisting, which can leave mouthparts embedded. After extraction, clean the area with a mild antiseptic solution such as chlorhexidine diluted in saline. Observe the site for residual inflammation or secondary infection.
Pharmacological treatment includes:
- Topical acaricides approved for felines (e.g., selamectin, imidacloprid‑moxidectin combinations). Apply according to the label, covering the ear base and surrounding skin.
- Systemic medications when infestations are severe or when ticks are resistant to topical agents (e.g., oral milbemycin oxime). Dosage must follow veterinary prescription.
- Anti‑inflammatory or analgesic drugs if the cat shows signs of pain or swelling, prescribed by a veterinarian.
Environmental control is essential to prevent reinfestation. Wash bedding, toys, and grooming tools in hot water. Vacuum carpets and upholstery, then discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister. Treat the household environment with a cat‑safe environmental acaricide or an insect growth regulator, focusing on areas where the cat spends time.
Preventive measures include:
- Routine application of long‑acting spot‑on products that repel ticks.
- Monthly oral preventatives that cover both fleas and ticks.
- Regular ear examinations during grooming sessions to detect early infestations.
If the cat exhibits excessive scratching, ear discharge, crust formation, or signs of systemic illness (fever, lethargy), seek veterinary care immediately. The veterinarian may perform otoscopic examination, collect ear swabs for cytology, and prescribe a full treatment protocol tailored to the cat’s health status and the tick species involved.