How to remove a subcutaneous tick from a cat? - briefly
Use fine‑tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull straight upward with steady pressure, then disinfect the area. If the tick is lodged subcutaneously, apply a warm compress to soften tissue before extraction and observe the site for signs of infection.
How to remove a subcutaneous tick from a cat? - in detail
Extracting a buried tick from a cat requires prompt action, proper tools, and careful technique to minimize tissue damage and infection risk.
Subcutaneous ticks embed their mouthparts beneath the skin, making them harder to grasp than surface‑attached specimens. Their prolonged presence can transmit pathogens, cause local inflammation, and lead to secondary bacterial infection. Early removal reduces these complications.
Necessary equipment
- Fine‑point tweezers or a specialized tick removal hook
- Sterile gauze pads
- Antiseptic solution (e.g., chlorhexidine)
- Disposable gloves
- Small pair of scissors (optional, for hair trimming)
- Protective barrier (e.g., a towel) to restrain the cat safely
Preparation
- Wash hands thoroughly, then don disposable gloves.
- Calm the cat by gently wrapping it in a towel, leaving the affected area exposed.
- If hair obscures the bite site, trim a narrow strip around the tick with scissors to improve visibility.
Removal procedure
- Disinfect the skin surrounding the tick with antiseptic; allow it to dry briefly.
- Position the tweezers as close to the skin as possible, grasping the tick’s head or mouthparts without squeezing the body.
- Apply steady, upward traction, maintaining alignment with the skin to avoid breaking the mouthparts.
- If resistance occurs, use a tick removal hook to slide under the tick’s head and lift gently.
- Once the tick separates, place it on a gauze pad for identification if needed.
Post‑removal care
- Inspect the bite site for remaining mouthparts; if any fragment remains, repeat the extraction process.
- Clean the wound with antiseptic and apply a small gauze pad if bleeding occurs.
- Monitor the cat for signs of inflammation, swelling, or behavioral changes over the next 48 hours.
- Contact a veterinarian if the tick was attached for more than 48 hours, if the cat shows fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, or if the wound does not heal.
Preventive measures
- Conduct weekly skin checks, especially after outdoor exposure.
- Maintain regular use of veterinarian‑approved ectoparasite preventatives.
- Keep the environment free of wildlife that may carry ticks.
Following this protocol ensures safe extraction of a subcutaneous tick, reduces health risks, and promotes rapid recovery.