How to know if a cat has a tick in its ear? - briefly
Inspect the cat’s ear canal for a small, dark, engorged parasite attached to the skin, noting any swelling, redness, or a moving speck. If the ear feels unusually irritated or you see a tick‑shaped object, a tick is present.
How to know if a cat has a tick in its ear? - in detail
Inspect the ear canal with a well‑lit environment. Separate the outer ear flap and gently pull it back to expose the inner surface. Look for the following indicators:
- Small, dark specks attached to the skin, often resembling a grain of sand.
- A raised, oval shape that may be partially hidden by hair.
- Swelling or redness around the attachment point.
- Excessive scratching, shaking of the head, or frequent rubbing of the ear.
Feel the ear with a gloved fingertip. A tick will feel like a firm, slightly raised bump. If the animal tolerates handling, use a fine‑toothed comb to part the fur and reveal any hidden parasites.
When a tick is suspected, remove it promptly to prevent disease transmission. Grasp the parasite as close to the skin as possible with tweezers or a specialized tick remover, applying steady, upward pressure. Avoid twisting or squeezing the body, which can cause the mouthparts to remain embedded.
After removal, clean the bite site with an antiseptic solution and monitor for signs of infection, such as persistent redness, discharge, or swelling. If any abnormal symptoms appear, seek veterinary assistance.
Regular ear examinations, especially after outdoor exposure, reduce the likelihood of unnoticed infestations. Maintaining a clean environment and using veterinarian‑recommended tick preventatives further protect the cat’s health.