How to get rid of ticks on a cat using folk remedies? - briefly
Use a garlic‑coconut oil paste (grated garlic mixed with coconut oil) applied to the coat for 15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly; alternatively, sprinkle food‑grade diatomaceous earth combined with a few drops of lavender oil onto the fur, massage in, and comb out the ticks. Follow each treatment with a gentle bath and a thorough inspection to ensure all parasites are removed.
How to get rid of ticks on a cat using folk remedies? - in detail
Ticks attach to a cat’s skin and feed for several days, causing irritation, blood loss, and possible disease transmission. Prompt removal reduces these risks. Traditional home methods can be effective when applied correctly and safely.
First, isolate the animal in a calm environment. Use a soft towel to restrain the cat without causing stress. Examine the coat, especially around the neck, ears, and tail base, where ticks commonly settle.
Manual extraction
- Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible with fine‑pointed tweezers or a tick‑removal hook.
- Pull upward with steady pressure, avoiding twisting or squeezing the body.
- After removal, clean the bite site with diluted povidone‑iodine or chlorhexidine.
Vinegar solution
- Mix equal parts white vinegar and water.
- Soak a clean cloth in the solution, then apply to the tick for 1–2 minutes. The acidic environment irritates the parasite, making it easier to grasp.
- Proceed with manual extraction as described above.
Salt paste
- Combine fine sea salt with a few drops of warm water to form a thick paste.
- Apply a thin layer over the tick, covering it completely. The paste dehydrates the parasite within 10–15 minutes.
- Use tweezers to remove the dead tick, then clean the area.
Essential‑oil blend
- Dilute 2 drops of lavender or eucalyptus oil in 1 ml of carrier oil (e.g., coconut oil).
- Rub a small amount on the affected region, avoiding the eyes and nose. The strong scent repels ticks and may encourage detachment.
- Check after 30 minutes; if the tick remains, repeat the application and then extract manually.
Herbal steam
- Boil a quart of water with a handful of dried rosemary or thyme.
- Allow the steam to cool slightly, then place the cat in a well‑ventilated bathroom with the steam source at a safe distance (no direct contact). The aromatic vapors can drive ticks off the fur.
- After 10 minutes, inspect the coat and remove any detached parasites.
After any treatment, bathe the cat with a mild, unscented shampoo to eliminate residue. Dry thoroughly, then monitor the skin for inflammation or secondary infection. If redness persists beyond 24 hours, consult a veterinarian. Regular grooming, weekly coat checks, and maintaining a clean indoor environment further decrease the likelihood of future infestations.