How to detect a subcutaneous tick in a cat? - briefly
Inspect the cat’s skin for firm, raised nodules—often pea‑sized lumps with a tiny central puncture—particularly around the ears, neck, and between the toes. Gently palpate any suspicious area and seek veterinary assistance for safe extraction.
How to detect a subcutaneous tick in a cat? - in detail
Detecting a tick that has embedded itself beneath the skin of a cat requires a systematic visual and tactile examination, followed by targeted diagnostic steps when the parasite is not immediately visible.
Begin with a thorough physical inspection. Part the fur carefully, using a comb or your fingers, and examine the entire body—especially common attachment sites such as the head, ears, neck, armpits, groin, and between the toes. Look for localized swelling, a small raised bump, or a dark spot that may indicate a concealed mouthpart. In many cases the tick’s body is hidden, leaving only a tiny puncture or a faint discoloration.
If visual clues are absent, perform a gentle palpation. Run your fingertips over the skin, applying modest pressure to feel for irregularities. A subdermal tick often feels like a firm, pea‑sized nodule that does not move when pressed. Note any areas that are warm, tender, or exhibit slight redness, as inflammation may accompany the infestation.
When a suspicious nodule is found, consider the following diagnostic measures:
- Fine‑needle aspiration (FNA). Insert a small gauge needle into the lump and aspirate fluid. The presence of a tick’s abdomen or mouthparts in the specimen confirms the diagnosis.
- Ultrasound examination. High‑frequency ultrasound can visualize the tick’s body within the tissue, distinguishing it from cysts or granulomas.
- Dermatoscopy (skin surface microscopy). A dermatoscope magnifies the skin surface, allowing identification of the tick’s mouthparts protruding from the entry site.
- Radiography (rare). In cases where the tick is large or calcified, an X‑ray may reveal a dense structure under the skin.
After confirmation, remove the parasite promptly. Use fine forceps to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, pulling upward with steady, even pressure to avoid breaking the mouthparts. If the tick is embedded deeply, a small incision may be required under veterinary supervision to extract it completely and minimize tissue damage.
Post‑removal care includes cleaning the wound with an antiseptic solution, applying a topical antibiotic, and monitoring for signs of infection or secondary skin reactions. A short course of a broad‑spectrum antibiotic may be warranted if inflammation persists. Additionally, schedule a follow‑up examination to ensure complete resolution and to assess for any tick‑borne diseases, such as Bartonella or Babesia, which can be transmitted even by partially hidden ticks.
Regular grooming, environmental tick control, and routine veterinary checks reduce the risk of hidden infestations. Maintaining short fur in high‑risk areas and using veterinarian‑approved tick preventatives are effective preventive strategies.