My cat has ear tick: what to do? - briefly
Gently remove the tick with fine‑point tweezers, disinfect the ear with a veterinarian‑approved solution, and schedule a vet visit to assess any irritation or infection.
My cat has ear tick: what to do? - in detail
A cat with ear ticks requires prompt inspection. Ticks attach to the skin inside the ear canal, often near the base of the ear flap. Their presence can cause irritation, inflammation, and potential disease transmission.
First, isolate the animal in a calm environment. Use a flashlight to illuminate the ear and gently part the fur. Look for dark, engorged bodies attached to the skin or small, moving specks.
If ticks are visible, follow these steps:
- Gather tools – fine‑pointed tweezers or a commercial tick‑removal hook, antiseptic solution (e.g., chlorhexidine), cotton balls, and a container with a lid for disposal.
- Grasp the tick – position the tweezers as close to the skin as possible, avoiding squeezing the body. Pull upward with steady, even pressure until the head separates from the skin.
- Disinfect the area – apply antiseptic to the bite site to reduce bacterial infection risk.
- Dispose of the tick – place it in the sealed container, add alcohol, and discard according to local regulations.
- Monitor the ear – watch for continued redness, swelling, discharge, or excessive scratching. Record any changes for the veterinarian.
After removal, clean the entire ear with a veterinarian‑approved ear cleaner. Avoid using cotton swabs deep inside the canal; instead, apply the solution to a soft gauze pad and wipe the outer ear and visible canal walls.
If the cat shows any of the following, seek veterinary care immediately:
- Persistent ear pain or shaking of the head.
- Thick, brownish discharge or foul odor.
- Signs of infection such as pus, ulceration, or severe swelling.
- Systemic symptoms like lethargy, loss of appetite, or fever.
Veterinarians may prescribe:
- Topical antibiotics or anti‑inflammatory ointments.
- Oral antiparasitic medication to eliminate remaining ticks and prevent reinfestation.
- Ear drops containing corticosteroids or antimicrobial agents for severe inflammation.
Preventive measures reduce future infestations:
- Apply a veterinarian‑recommended monthly tick preventative (spot‑on, collar, or oral formulation).
- Inspect ears weekly, especially after outdoor activity.
- Keep the home environment clean; vacuum carpets and rugs regularly to remove dropped ticks.
- Trim long hair around the ears to improve visibility and reduce tick hiding spots.
Document the date of removal, the number of ticks found, and any treatment administered. This record assists the veterinarian in assessing the risk of tick‑borne diseases and evaluating the effectiveness of preventive protocols.