How to determine the presence of a tick in a cat's ears? - briefly
Inspect the ear canal and the hair at the opening for a small, dark, oval body firmly attached to the skin, often resembling a grain of sand. Ticks may be partially concealed in folds, so gently part the fur and use a magnifying lens if necessary.
How to determine the presence of a tick in a cat's ears? - in detail
Detecting a tick lodged in a cat’s ear requires a systematic visual and tactile examination. The following steps outline the process in detail.
First, secure the animal in a calm environment. Enlist a second person to gently hold the cat, limiting sudden movements that could cause injury. Use a soft towel or blanket to wrap the animal, exposing only the head.
Next, visually inspect the external ear. Look for the following indicators:
- Small, dark, oval-shaped objects partially hidden in the fur.
- Redness or swelling around the ear canal entrance.
- Excessive scratching, head shaking, or frequent ear rubbing.
- Presence of a crusty or scabbed area that may conceal a parasite.
After the external survey, gently pull the ear flap back to open the canal. Employ a bright, handheld flashlight or a veterinary otoscope set to low magnification. Scan the canal wall from the base to the tip, noting any of these signs:
- A firm, engorged body attached to the skin.
- A smooth, glossy surface contrasting with the surrounding tissue.
- A clear line of attachment (the tick’s mouthparts) embedded in the ear skin.
If a tick is suspected but not clearly visible, use fine-tipped tweezers or a specialized tick removal tool to feel for a raised nodule. Apply modest pressure to the ear wall; a live tick may move, revealing its position.
When a tick is confirmed, follow these removal guidelines:
- Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, using fine tweezers or a tick hook.
- Pull upward with steady, even force; avoid twisting or squeezing the body.
- Inspect the mouthparts; if any remain embedded, remove them with a sterile needle.
- Disinfect the bite site with a mild antiseptic solution.
- Store the removed tick in a sealed container with alcohol for potential laboratory identification.
Finally, monitor the cat for at least two weeks after removal. Look for signs of secondary infection (pus, increased redness, swelling) or systemic illness (fever, lethargy). If any abnormal symptoms appear, consult a veterinarian promptly. Regular ear checks, especially during peak tick season, reduce the risk of unnoticed infestations.