How to pull out a tick that has embedded in a cat? - briefly
Use fine‑tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the cat’s skin as possible and pull upward with steady, even pressure; then clean the bite site with an antiseptic.
How to pull out a tick that has embedded in a cat? - in detail
Removing a tick from a cat requires careful preparation, proper tools, and immediate post‑removal care to prevent infection and disease transmission.
First, gather the necessary equipment: fine‑point tweezers or a specialized tick‑removal instrument, disposable gloves, a clean cloth, antiseptic solution, and a sealed container for the tick. Wear gloves to avoid direct contact with the parasite’s saliva.
Next, restrain the cat gently but securely. A second person can hold the animal while the primary handler works on the bite site. Position the cat so the tick is clearly visible and the surrounding fur is accessible.
Proceed with extraction using the following steps:
- Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, securing the mouthparts without crushing the body.
- Apply steady, upward pressure; pull straight out without twisting or jerking.
- If resistance occurs, maintain firm grip and continue pulling until the tick releases completely.
- Place the removed tick in the sealed container, add a drop of alcohol if identification or testing is needed, and label the specimen.
After removal, clean the bite area with antiseptic and monitor for redness, swelling, or discharge. Record the date of extraction and any observations. If the cat shows signs of fever, lethargy, or loss of appetite within a week, contact a veterinarian promptly, as these may indicate tick‑borne illness.
Dispose of gloves and cleaning materials safely. Store the tick sample for a minimum of two weeks if testing for pathogens is planned. Regularly inspect the cat’s coat, especially after outdoor activity, and maintain a preventive tick control program recommended by a veterinary professional.