How to correctly apply tick drops to a cat? - briefly
Apply the spot‑on product directly onto the cat’s skin at the base of the neck, ensuring the area is clean, dry, and free of fur. Use the dosage specified for the animal’s weight and allow the medication to dry before handling the cat.
How to correctly apply tick drops to a cat? - in detail
Applying spot‑on acaricide to a cat requires preparation, correct dosage, precise administration, and post‑application monitoring.
First, choose a product specifically labeled for felines. Verify the concentration (e.g., 1 mg fipronil per gram) and the weight range indicated on the label. Weigh the animal accurately; the dose is calculated per kilogram of body weight. For a cat weighing 4 kg, a product delivering 0.5 mg fipronil per kilogram would require 2 mg of active ingredient, which corresponds to the amount specified in the manufacturer’s dosage chart.
Second, prepare the application site. Locate the base of the skull, between the shoulder blades, on the skin rather than the fur. Part the hair with a fingertip to expose a small area of skin. This location prevents the cat from licking the medication and ensures optimal absorption through the dermal layer.
Third, administer the drop. Hold the applicator upright, press firmly to release the entire measured dose in a single stream onto the exposed skin. Avoid contact with eyes, nose, or mouth. Do not spread the liquid manually; the product is formulated to disperse across the skin surface.
Fourth, allow the cat to remain undisturbed for at least five minutes. During this period, restrict access to grooming areas and prevent the animal from rubbing against objects. If the cat attempts to lick the site, gently redirect attention without using force.
Fifth, observe for adverse reactions over the next 24 hours. Look for signs such as excessive salivation, vomiting, tremors, or skin irritation. Should any of these occur, contact a veterinary professional immediately.
Additional precautions:
- Store the product in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children and other pets.
- Do not use the same product on multiple animals simultaneously unless the label explicitly permits multi‑animal dosing.
- Replace the applicator cap securely after each use to maintain product integrity.
- Reapply according to the interval recommended by the manufacturer, typically every four weeks, to maintain continuous protection against ticks.