How to combat subcutaneous ticks in cats? - briefly
Effective control requires a veterinarian to surgically extract embedded ticks and prescribe a systemic acaricide such as selamectin or afoxolaner. Follow‑up examinations should confirm removal and assess for secondary infections.
How to combat subcutaneous ticks in cats? - in detail
Subcutaneous tick infestations in felines require prompt detection, appropriate treatment, and preventive measures to avoid systemic complications.
Early identification relies on observing signs such as localized swelling, skin discoloration, lethargy, loss of appetite, or unexplained anemia. Palpation of the affected area may reveal a firm nodule beneath the skin where the tick resides. Veterinary examination, including ultrasound or fine‑needle aspiration, confirms the presence of the parasite and assesses tissue damage.
Therapeutic options include:
- Surgical removal – Veterinarian makes a small incision, extracts the tick, and cleans the wound. Suturing may be necessary if the cavity is large.
- Cryotherapy – Application of liquid nitrogen freezes the tick and surrounding tissue, leading to necrosis and natural expulsion.
- Chemical agents – Topical or injectable acaricides such as ivermectin, selamectin, or milbemycin oxime eliminate the parasite systemically. Dosage follows the animal’s weight and manufacturer guidelines.
- Anti‑inflammatory drugs – Non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory medication reduces swelling and pain after extraction.
- Antibiotics – Broad‑spectrum agents are prescribed if secondary bacterial infection is suspected.
Post‑treatment care involves monitoring the incision site for signs of infection, applying a sterile dressing if required, and limiting the cat’s activity for several days. Follow‑up examinations verify complete recovery and rule out residual tissue damage.
Prevention focuses on regular parasite control and environmental management:
- Administer monthly topical or oral ectoparasitic products recommended for indoor and outdoor cats.
- Maintain a clean indoor environment; vacuum carpets and upholstery frequently to remove detached ticks.
- Limit outdoor exposure during peak tick activity periods, typically early morning and late afternoon in warm months.
- Treat surrounding outdoor areas with acaricidal sprays or granules, especially in grassy or wooded zones frequented by the cat.
Owner education includes checking the cat’s coat and skin weekly, especially after outdoor excursions, and seeking veterinary attention at the first indication of abnormal swelling or behavioral changes. Consistent use of approved parasite preventatives, combined with vigilant observation, minimizes the risk of subcutaneous tick infestations and protects feline health.