How to get rid of ticks on dogs and cats? - briefly
Remove ticks promptly with fine‑tipped tweezers or a dedicated removal device, gripping the parasite near the skin and pulling straight out. Then apply a veterinarian‑approved topical or oral acaricide to prevent further attachment.
How to get rid of ticks on dogs and cats? - in detail
Ticks attach to the skin of pets, feed on blood, and can transmit diseases. Effective control requires a combination of immediate removal, preventive medication, and environmental management.
First, inspect the animal daily, especially after walks in wooded or grassy areas. Ticks appear as small, round, darkened bumps; they may be partially embedded. Use a fine‑pointed tweezer or a specialized tick‑removal tool. Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, pull upward with steady, even pressure, and avoid twisting. After removal, clean the bite site with mild antiseptic and wash your hands. Discard the tick by placing it in alcohol or sealing it in a container before disposal; never crush it with fingers.
Preventive measures include:
- Topical acaricides (e.g., fipronil, selamectin) applied monthly to the skin on the neck or between the shoulder blades.
- Oral chewable products containing afoxolaner, fluralaner, or sarolaner, administered according to the manufacturer’s schedule.
- Collars impregnated with permethrin or deltamethrin, providing continuous protection for up to eight months.
- Vaccinations against tick‑borne diseases where available (e.g., Lyme disease vaccine for dogs).
Environmental control reduces re‑infestation risk:
- Mow lawns weekly to keep grass short, limiting tick habitat.
- Remove leaf litter and clear brush around the home.
- Treat the yard with environmentally approved acaricides, focusing on shaded, humid zones.
- Clean bedding and pet accessories regularly with hot water, then dry on high heat.
- Limit wildlife access by sealing gaps under decks and porches; wildlife often carries ticks into yards.
If a tick is found attached for more than 24 hours, monitor the pet for signs of illness such as fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, joint swelling, or abnormal bleeding. Contact a veterinarian promptly; early treatment can prevent severe complications. The veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics for bacterial infections (e.g., doxycycline for Lyme disease) or supportive care for other tick‑borne conditions.
Regular veterinary check‑ups ensure that preventive products are still appropriate for the pet’s age, weight, and health status. Adjustments may be necessary during seasonal changes or if the animal travels to high‑risk regions.
Combining prompt removal, consistent prophylactic medication, and diligent habitat management provides the most reliable strategy for eliminating ticks from dogs and cats and safeguarding their health.