How to remove a tick from a cat's ear? - briefly
Grasp the tick with fine‑point tweezers as close to the skin as possible and pull upward with steady, even pressure. Disinfect the area and monitor the cat for irritation or infection.
How to remove a tick from a cat's ear? - in detail
Ticks attached to a cat’s ear must be removed promptly to prevent disease transmission and local irritation.
Gather a pair of fine‑point tweezers or specialized tick‑removal forceps, disposable gloves, antiseptic solution, and a clean cloth. Keep a second person available to hold the animal gently but securely; a cat‑specific carrier or a towel wrap works well for restraint without causing stress.
Locate the tick’s head, which is embedded in the ear skin. Using the tweezers, grasp the parasite as close to the surface as possible, avoiding the body to prevent crushing. Apply steady, upward pressure in line with the mouthparts; do not twist or jerk, which can leave fragments behind. Once the tick detaches, place it in a sealed container with alcohol for identification if needed.
After removal, clean the bite site with antiseptic and wipe the surrounding ear with a damp cloth. Observe the cat for several days; watch for redness, swelling, or discharge, which may indicate retained mouthparts or infection. If any part of the tick remains embedded, or if the cat shows lethargy, loss of appetite, or fever, seek veterinary care immediately.
For future protection, consider a veterinarian‑approved tick collar, monthly topical treatments, or environmental control measures such as regular yard mowing and avoidance of tall grass. Regularly inspect the cat’s ears, especially after outdoor excursions, to catch parasites early.