How to properly treat a cat's ears for ear ticks? - briefly
Remove visible ticks with fine‑tipped tweezers, grasping the body close to the skin and pulling steadily upward. Clean the ear canal with a veterinarian‑approved solution, dry gently, and monitor for irritation or reinfestation, seeking professional care if symptoms persist.
How to properly treat a cat's ears for ear ticks? - in detail
Ear ticks frequently inhabit the external auditory canal of felines, causing inflammation, secondary infection, and possible hearing loss. Prompt and accurate intervention reduces tissue damage and prevents systemic spread.
Accurate diagnosis begins with visual inspection. A well‑lit, magnified view of the ear canal reveals live arthropods, dark‑brown debris, or localized erythema. Palpation may elicit discomfort, indicating deeper infestation. If uncertainty remains, a veterinary otoscopic examination confirms presence and assesses severity.
Preparation includes gathering appropriate supplies: a veterinary‑approved acaricide solution, sterile cotton swabs, soft gauze pads, a mild ear cleanser, disposable gloves, and a towel to restrain the animal gently. The cat should be calm; a quiet environment and slow handling minimize stress.
Treatment proceeds as follows:
- Apply a few drops of the ear cleanser to the canal, massage the base of the ear for 30 seconds, then allow the cat to shake its head. Wipe excess fluid and debris with gauze.
- Administer the acaricide according to the product label—typically two to three drops per ear, repeated after 7–10 days to eliminate newly hatched ticks.
- After the second application, repeat the cleansing step to remove dead ticks and residual medication.
- Observe the cat for adverse reactions (e.g., excessive scratching, swelling) and contact a veterinarian if symptoms worsen.
Post‑treatment care involves daily inspection for residual ticks during the first two weeks, maintaining ear hygiene with a gentle cleanser, and monitoring for signs of infection such as purulent discharge or persistent odor. If any abnormality appears, veterinary assessment is required.
Long‑term prevention relies on regular ear checks, routine use of a veterinarian‑recommended ectoparasite control product, and keeping the environment free of tick habitats. Seasonal tick activity may necessitate increased vigilance during warmer months.