How to treat subcutaneous ticks in animals? - briefly
Extract the embedded tick with a sterile incision or fine forceps, taking care to remove all mouthparts. Administer a systemic acaricide and monitor the wound for inflammation or secondary infection.
How to treat subcutaneous ticks in animals? - in detail
Subcutaneous ticks embed beneath the skin, requiring a systematic approach to eliminate the parasite and prevent complications.
First, confirm the presence of an embedded tick. Palpate the affected area for a firm, raised nodule; ultrasound may assist when the lesion is not palpable.
Second, prepare a sterile field. Disinfect the skin with an appropriate antiseptic (e.g., chlorhexidine) and wear disposable gloves.
Third, remove the tick. Use fine‑point forceps or a specialized tick removal instrument to grasp the tick as close to the skin surface as possible. Apply steady, gentle traction without twisting to avoid breaking the mouthparts. If the mouthparts remain, excise them with a scalpel under local anesthesia.
Fourth, treat the wound. Irrigate the site with sterile saline, then apply a topical antimicrobial (e.g., povidone‑iodine or a bacitracin ointment).
Fifth, assess the need for systemic therapy. Administer a single dose of an appropriate antibiotic (e.g., doxycycline 5 mg/kg PO for 7–10 days) if the animal shows signs of infection, fever, or if the tick species is a known vector of bacterial pathogens.
Sixth, monitor the animal. Observe the site daily for swelling, discharge, or necrosis. Record any systemic signs such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or lameness.
Seventh, implement preventive measures. Apply a validated ectoparasite control product (e.g., a spot‑on formulation containing fipronil or a systemic isoxazoline) according to the manufacturer’s schedule. Maintain pasture hygiene by regularly mowing and removing leaf litter, which reduces tick habitats.
Summary of steps
- Verify subdermal tick presence.
- Sterilize the area and don protective gloves.
- Extract the parasite with forceps; excise residual mouthparts if necessary.
- Clean and dress the wound with antiseptic.
- Provide systemic antibiotics when indicated.
- Conduct daily wound and health assessments.
- Apply ongoing ectoparasite control and environmental management.
Proper execution of these actions minimizes tissue damage, reduces the risk of secondary infections, and lowers the probability of pathogen transmission.