How to treat a subcutaneous tick in a cat? - briefly
Remove the tick surgically under veterinary supervision, clean the wound thoroughly, and monitor for signs of infection; administer prescribed antibiotics or anti‑inflammatory medication as needed. Follow up with a vet to ensure complete recovery.
How to treat a subcutaneous tick in a cat? - in detail
A subcutaneous tick resides beneath the skin, often attached to the underlying tissue rather than the surface. Early detection relies on careful inspection of the cat’s coat, especially around the head, neck, ears, and between the toes. Signs may include localized swelling, redness, or a small, raised nodule.
Removal procedure
- Restrain the cat gently but securely; consider a helper or a veterinary restraint device.
- Disinfect the surrounding fur with a chlorhexidine or povidone‑iodine solution.
- Use fine‑pointed, curved forceps or a specialized tick‑removal tool.
- Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, avoiding crushing the body.
- Apply steady, upward traction until the mouthparts detach completely.
- Inspect the wound; if any part of the tick remains, repeat the grasping step or seek veterinary assistance.
Post‑removal care
- Clean the bite site with an antiseptic spray or wipe.
- Apply a thin layer of topical antibiotic ointment to prevent secondary infection.
- Monitor the area for 48‑72 hours; watch for increasing inflammation, discharge, or systemic signs such as fever or lethargy.
- If any of these symptoms appear, contact a veterinarian promptly.
Pharmacological support
- Administer a single dose of an oral or injectable antiparasitic (e.g., selamectin, ivermectin at species‑appropriate dosage) to eliminate any residual larvae.
- Consider a short course of broad‑spectrum antibiotics (e.g., amoxicillin‑clavulanate) if bacterial infection is suspected.
- Provide anti‑inflammatory medication (e.g., meloxicam) to reduce swelling and discomfort, following dosage guidelines.
Prevention strategies
- Maintain a regular tick‑preventive regimen: monthly topical treatments, collars, or oral preventives approved for felines.
- Keep the cat’s environment free of tall grass and leaf litter where ticks thrive.
- Perform weekly full‑body examinations, especially after outdoor excursions.
Veterinary follow‑up
- Schedule a check‑up within a week to confirm complete healing and to assess for any tick‑borne diseases (e.g., Bartonella, hemoplasma).
- Request blood work if the cat exhibits unexplained anemia, weight loss, or persistent fever.
By adhering to these steps, owners can effectively eliminate a deep‑lying tick, minimize tissue damage, and reduce the risk of pathogen transmission.