How to find out if a cat has ticks in its ears? - briefly
Examine the cat’s ear canal and outer ear for tiny, dark, engorged insects, redness, scabs, or an unpleasant odor. If any of these signs appear, carefully extract visible ticks with tweezers and seek veterinary care for proper treatment.
How to find out if a cat has ticks in its ears? - in detail
Inspect the cat’s ears carefully. Use a bright light and a magnifying glass if available. Look for the following signs:
- Small, dark specks attached to the skin or hair, often near the base of the ear canal.
- Swelling, redness, or crusty debris that may conceal parasites.
- Excessive scratching or head shaking, which can indicate irritation.
- A visible, moving organism that resembles a small, oval-shaped arachnid.
If any of these indicators are present, perform a tactile check. Gently pull the ear flap outward and run a fingertip along the inner surface. Feel for firm, raised bumps that do not detach easily; these are typical of attached ticks.
When a tick is suspected, isolate the animal to prevent further attachment. Use fine-tipped tweezers or a specialized tick removal tool. Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, applying steady, upward pressure without twisting. After removal, clean the area with antiseptic solution and monitor for signs of infection, such as pus or persistent redness.
Confirm the removal by examining the extracted specimen. A tick will have a rounded body, eight legs, and a noticeable mouthpart. If the mouthpart remains embedded, repeat the removal process carefully.
Regular preventive measures reduce the likelihood of ear infestations. Apply veterinary‑approved tick preventatives according to the label schedule, keep the cat’s environment free of tall grass and leaf litter, and perform routine ear examinations during grooming sessions.