How to treat a subcutaneous tick on a cat? - briefly
Remove the embedded tick by gently pulling the surrounding skin outward and cutting out the lesion with sterile scissors or a scalpel, then disinfect the area and monitor for infection; promptly consult a veterinarian for proper extraction and post‑procedure care, including antiparasitic medication if needed.
How to treat a subcutaneous tick on a cat? - in detail
A subdermal tick lodged beneath a cat’s skin can cause inflammation, infection, and systemic illness if left untreated. Early recognition and proper intervention are essential for preventing complications.
Detecting a hidden tick requires a thorough physical examination. Look for localized swelling, redness, or a firm nodule that may feel like a small lump. Palpate the area gently; a tick often feels like a firm, slightly mobile mass beneath the fur. If the cat shows signs of lethargy, loss of appetite, or fever, consider a hidden parasite as a possible cause.
When a subcutaneous tick is suspected, veterinary assessment is mandatory. The veterinarian will:
- Perform ultrasonography or fine‑needle aspiration to confirm the presence of the parasite.
- Administer appropriate sedation or analgesia to minimize stress and pain during removal.
- Extract the tick using sterile forceps or a specialized removal instrument, ensuring the entire organism, including the mouthparts, is removed.
- Clean the wound with antiseptic solution to reduce bacterial contamination.
Pharmacological support follows extraction. Common recommendations include:
- A short course of broad‑spectrum antibiotics (e.g., amoxicillin‑clavulanate) to treat or prevent secondary bacterial infection.
- Non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drugs (e.g., meloxicam) to alleviate pain and reduce swelling.
- Systemic ectoparasiticides (e.g., afoxolaner or selamectin) to eliminate any remaining ticks and protect against future infestations.
Post‑procedure care focuses on wound management and monitoring. Apply a sterile bandage if necessary, and keep the cat indoors until the site has healed. Observe the area daily for signs of discharge, increasing redness, or renewed swelling. Schedule a follow‑up visit within 7–10 days to confirm complete resolution.
Preventive measures reduce the risk of hidden ticks. Maintain regular use of approved tick preventatives, inspect the cat’s coat after outdoor exposure, and keep the environment free of rodent hosts and dense vegetation where ticks thrive. Consistent preventive strategies, combined with prompt veterinary intervention, ensure the cat remains healthy and free from subdermal tick complications.